As Australians become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, many candle lovers are seeking sustainable alternatives to conventional candles. The good news is that the candle industry has evolved significantly, offering numerous eco-friendly options that don't compromise on quality or fragrance. This guide explores how to make environmentally responsible choices while still enjoying the ambiance and aromatherapy benefits of candles in your home.
Understanding the Environmental Impact of Candles
Before we discuss solutions, it's important to understand what makes some candles less environmentally friendly than others. The main concerns include:
- Wax source: Petroleum-derived paraffin versus renewable plant-based waxes
- Fragrance ingredients: Synthetic chemicals versus natural essential oils
- Wick materials: Metal-core wicks versus cotton or wooden alternatives
- Packaging: Single-use plastics versus recyclable or reusable containers
- Production practices: Mass manufacturing versus small-batch, local production
- Carbon footprint: International shipping versus locally made products
Sustainable Wax Options
The wax is the largest component of any candle, making it the most significant factor in environmental impact.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is derived from soybean oil, making it a renewable resource that biodegrades naturally. It burns cleaner than paraffin, producing less soot and releasing fewer toxins into the air. However, not all soy is created equal—look for candles using non-GMO soy from sustainable farms that don't contribute to deforestation.
Soy Wax Considerations
While soy is generally considered eco-friendly, large-scale soy farming can involve pesticides and contribute to habitat loss. The most sustainable soy candles use organic, non-GMO soy from responsible sources. Look for certifications or brand transparency about sourcing.
Coconut Wax
Made from coconut oil, this wax is harvested from a highly renewable crop. Coconut palms produce fruit year-round without replanting, making coconut wax an excellent sustainable choice. It burns cleanly and holds fragrance exceptionally well. Many eco-conscious brands now use coconut-soy blends for optimal performance and sustainability.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural by-product of honey production, making it a waste-reducing choice that supports beekeeping. It's completely natural, biodegradable, and produces negative ions when burned that can help purify air. However, it's not vegan and requires ethical sourcing to ensure bee welfare.
Rapeseed Wax
Popular in Europe and gaining traction in Australia, rapeseed wax comes from the same plant that produces canola oil. It's renewable, biodegradable, and often grown locally, reducing transportation emissions.
Key Takeaway
Avoid paraffin wax when possible. This petroleum by-product is non-renewable and releases more pollutants when burned than plant-based alternatives. Even "paraffin-soy blends" reduce the environmental benefits of soy.
Natural Fragrances and Essential Oils
Many conventional candles use synthetic fragrance oils derived from petrochemicals. While these can produce strong scents, they may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned.
Essential Oil Candles
Candles scented with pure essential oils offer a natural alternative. These plant-derived fragrances provide therapeutic benefits alongside environmental advantages. However, essential oils can be less intense than synthetic fragrances, and not all essential oils are sustainably harvested.
What to Look For
- Candles labelled "naturally scented" or "essential oil candles"
- Ingredient transparency—brands that list their fragrance sources
- Certifications from organisations like IFRA (International Fragrance Association)
- Phthalate-free fragrance declarations
Sustainable Wicks and Containers
Eco-Friendly Wick Options
The most sustainable wicks are:
- Cotton wicks: Natural, biodegradable, and clean-burning when unbleached
- Wooden wicks: Often FSC-certified, creating a crackling sound while burning cleanly
- Hemp wicks: An increasingly popular natural alternative
Avoid wicks with metal cores, which were once common and can release small amounts of heavy metals when burned.
Container Considerations
The vessel holding your candle has environmental implications too:
- Glass jars: Recyclable and reusable. Look for brands encouraging container return programs
- Ceramic vessels: Durable and easily repurposed as planters or storage
- Metal tins: Recyclable and often made from recycled materials
- Concrete or cement: Long-lasting and repurposable
- Avoid: Single-use plastic containers and excessive packaging
Repurposing Candle Containers
When your candle is finished, clean the container by placing it in the freezer (wax shrinks and pops out) or pouring boiling water to melt remaining wax. Use containers as:
- Small planters for succulents or herbs
- Makeup brush holders
- Pen and pencil cups
- Jewellery storage
- Votive holders for new candles
Supporting Sustainable Brands
Beyond ingredients, consider the broader practices of candle companies:
What Makes a Brand Sustainable
- Local production: Australian-made candles have lower transportation emissions
- Small-batch manufacturing: Often results in less waste and more quality control
- Transparent sourcing: Brands that share where their ingredients come from
- Carbon offset programs: Companies that measure and offset their emissions
- Plastic-free packaging: Minimal, recyclable, or compostable packaging materials
- Refill programs: Some brands offer refills for their containers
- Charitable giving: Brands supporting environmental causes
Australian Eco-Conscious Brands
Australia has a thriving sustainable candle scene. Look for local artisan candle makers who prioritise eco-friendly practices, and check brand websites for sustainability statements and certifications.
Reducing Your Candle Carbon Footprint
Beyond choosing sustainable products, how you use and care for candles affects their environmental impact:
Extend Candle Life
Proper candle care means less waste:
- Trim wicks to reduce soot and improve burn efficiency
- Avoid draughts that cause uneven burning
- Allow full melt pools to prevent tunnelling and wasted wax
- Store candles properly to preserve fragrance
Use Wax Warmers
Electric wax warmers release fragrance without combustion, eliminating soot entirely. You can use wax melts or repurpose leftover wax from finished candles.
Support Refill and Return Programs
Some candle companies offer container return or refill programs. Participating keeps glass and ceramic out of recycling streams and reduces the need for new container production.
Making Informed Choices
When shopping for eco-friendly candles, ask these questions:
- What type of wax is used? Is it from renewable sources?
- Are fragrances natural or synthetic? Are they phthalate-free?
- What materials are the wicks made from?
- Is the packaging recyclable or minimal?
- Where is the candle made? Is the brand transparent about practices?
- Can the container be reused or recycled?
The Cost of Sustainability
Eco-friendly candles often cost more than mass-produced paraffin alternatives. This reflects the higher cost of sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and small-batch production. Consider it an investment in both environmental and personal health—cleaner burning candles release fewer pollutants into your home.
To balance sustainability with budget, consider burning candles less frequently but more mindfully, or investing in one or two high-quality sustainable candles rather than multiple cheap ones.
Conclusion
Choosing eco-friendly candles is a meaningful way to reduce your environmental footprint while still enjoying the beauty and benefits of home fragrance. By selecting plant-based waxes, natural fragrances, sustainable wicks, and mindful packaging, you can illuminate your home with a clear conscience. As consumer demand grows, more brands are embracing sustainable practices, making it easier than ever to find candles that align with your environmental values. Your choices as a consumer help drive this positive change in the industry.