Compostable, biodegradable or ‘plant-based’ plastic alternatives are included in the ban (with the exclusion of produce labels). The reason for this inclusion is most compostable plastics don’t actually end up in a composting system. They are often simply sent to landfill or are littered, in which case they behave just like conventional plastic. If they are composted, they may still have adverse soil impacts, such as microplastics, and chemicals can remain in the environment following the physical breakdown of materials.
Many products that claim to be home compostable don’t actually degrade in a typical home composting environment. If an item looks or feels like plastic, but claims to be made from PLA, PHA, corn, sugarcane, wheat or any other ‘natural’ source it could be plastic in disguise. Even plastic items with composting certifications can fall into this category. When purchasing alternatives to banned plastic items (other than produce labels), ask your supplier to confirm in writing that the items do not contain any form of plastic polymer, including compostable plastic or bioplastic. It’s important to not rely solely on logos, labelling or product claims that are not proof of compliance.
As New Zealand tightens its grip on single-use plastics, the inclusion of compostable alternatives within the ban highlights the need for greater awareness and responsibility. We believe all small actions collectively can make a big difference, so when you make your next purchase seek out genuine sustainable alternatives and together we can pave the way for a cleaner, greener future for the next generations.
]]>What about a challenge that has the planet at its centre? With our children all screaming for a better world for their futures, what are we actually doing individually for our collective futures? Plastic wrap can take up to 1,000 years to degrade in landfill, and right now it is so important to do something about it.
Together Honeywrap and Project Jonah challenge you and your readers to join Plastic Free July 2023. With millions of people joining the challenge globally - we are running out of excuses for getting our coffee in takeaway cups and using other single-use plastic.
Saying no to plastic is part of our ethos at Honeywrap, from our products to our postage we want to challenge everyone to make small changes, which collectively will make a huge difference. Let’s all take the month of July challenge to ingrain the habit of saying no to plastic.
We are excited to announce that we have saved a staggering 40 million meters of plastic wrap from polluting our oceans, waterways and landfills since our inception 10 years ago. To illustrate what 40 million metres looks like, that's enough plastic to wrap around the Earth!
Our Waikato based eco-friendly business, Honeywrap produces sustainable beeswax food wraps and provides other sustainable products, and has just achieved this remarkable milestone in the fight against plastic pollution.
What sets Honeywrap apart from other eco-friendly businesses is our commitment to New Zealand's future, which is why we are proud to partner with Project Jonah for the sixth year in a row, with a portion of all sales going to support their efforts during the month of July. Project Jonah is a marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation organization, and we are so proud to support their work saving New Zealand's sea life.
With only 9% of plastic waste being recycled in New Zealand, and the remaining 91% ending up in landfills, the ocean, or as litter, we encourage everyone to get involved and sign up for the Plastic Free July challenge. By pledging to reduce single-use plastic consumption, individuals can make a significant impact on the environment and help create a better future for generations. Small changes collectively can make a huge difference.
At Honeywrap, we believe that our success is proof that people are willing to make a change and adopt a sustainable lifestyle. We are dedicated to making a difference and inspiring others to do the same. It is a story that deserves to be shared with a wider audience.
]]>Honeywrap is now a Certified B Corporation which means we met rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
Why is this important? It means that we are not just in business to make a profit —we are here to make a positive impact on our planet and communities.
By choosing Honeywrap, you are not only purchasing a high-quality, eco-friendly product, you are also supporting a brand that is committed to doing business in a way that respects our environment, community and promotes a circular economy.
Thank you for being a part of our Honeywrap community!
Have you ever thought about turning your kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil? Composting is not only a great way to reduce waste but also an easy and fun activity that the whole family can do. Plus, you'll get to enjoy the benefits of a healthy garden while reducing your carbon footprint. Here's how you can get started:
There are several types of compost bins, from DIY pallet bins to rotating drums. Choose one that suits your needs and budget. You can even make it a family project by building your own compost bin from scratch.
You can compost almost any plant-based material, including fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, leaves, and grass clippings. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods, as they can attract pests and slow down the composting process.
Layer your compost with green and brown materials. Green materials are high in nitrogen and include things like fruit and vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. Brown materials are high in carbon and include things like dry leaves, straw, and sawdust. Make sure to chop up larger items into smaller pieces to speed up the composting process.
Regularly turn your compost to aerate it and add water to keep it moist. This will help break down the materials and speed up the composting process. Make it a family chore to take turns turning and watering the compost bin.
After a few months, your compost will be ready to use. The finished product will be dark and crumbly, with a pleasant earthy smell. Use it to fertilise your garden or potted plants, and watch them thrive.
Composting is not only a great way to reduce waste, but it's also a fun and educational activity for the whole family. It teaches children about the importance of sustainability and how small actions can make a big impact. So, grab your pitchfork and get composting!
References:
Let's talk about our relationship with single-use plastics. We have all used them, and at times they can be convenient, but let's consider their impact on the environment.
The truth is, every year, humans produce over 300 million tons of plastic waste, and more than 50% of it is for single-use purposes! This plastic ends up polluting our oceans and harming marine life and ecosystems. It's scary to think that by 2050, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish. But don't worry, there are things we can do to help!
We can start by making small changes in our daily lives, like carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup or using tote bags when we go grocery shopping. These little actions can make a big difference in reducing our plastic waste.
What does sustainability look like at your workplace? Encouraging your workplace to prioritise sustainability and use environmentally friendly materials can help create a more sustainable future for our planet.
Overall, let's remember that our actions matter, and we have the power to make positive change. By rethinking our relationship with single-use plastics and taking steps to reduce our consumption, we can protect our planet and ensure a better future for generations to come.
Refernces:
]]>Living sustainably doesn't have to be expensive. Making eco-friendly choices can actually help you save money in the long run. By reducing your energy usage, reusing items, and making mindful purchases, you can live a more sustainable lifestyle on a budget. Here are a few tips for making eco-friendly choices without breaking the bank.
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Thanks to you incredible people we have estimated together we have saved over 40 million metres of plastic wrap from entering our environment! |
We are proud to be a certified B Corp! This means we meet the highest standards of social and environmental impact and the our business model and products are set up in a way to best protect the environment. |
We are proud to have been awarded Gold for our Ocean Rescue Three Pack Honeywrap! |
Our owner Wendy Oliver is passionate about reducing plastic waste and making our planet a greener place for the next generation. Learn more about Wendy and her mission in the video below.
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Choose natural fabrics: When buying clothes, go for natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and linen instead of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. These materials shed microfibers when washed, which contribute to the microplastic pollution in our oceans. |
Avoid single-use plastics: Say no to plastic straws, bags, and disposable cutlery. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives like stainless steel straws, cloth bags, and bamboo utensils
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Choose products with less packaging: When shopping, choose products with less packaging or packaging that can be easily recycled.
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Use a refillable water bottle: Invest in a good quality refillable water bottle instead of buying single-use plastic bottles. |
Avoid synthetic cosmetics: Many beauty and personal care products contain microbeads or other types of microplastics. Opt for natural and organic products instead. |
Use natural cleaning products: Avoid harsh chemicals and use natural cleaning products like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. |
Use Beeswax Wraps: Use Beeswax wraps instead of plastic wraps to preserve your food. Beeswax Wraps are a great alternative as they are reusable and do not produce microplastics. |
By following these simple tips, you can help do your part to protect our planet.
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Social Good is part of our ethos. Honeywrap brand values are conservation, communities and commerce working together to create a sustainable, healthier world. Honeywrap is a member of the Sustainable Business Network and is dedicated to doing business sustainably in a way that respects our air, land, water, and environment to work towards Zero Waste and a Circular Economy.
Honeywrap is passionate about reducing the amount of single use plastic on our planet, by providing sustainable eco-friendly plastic free solutions, to make a better world for the next generation. Next time you pack your lunch, think about switching to a reusable zero plastic alternative.
Articles referenced:
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/mar/24/microplastics-found-in-human-blood-for-first-time
https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/the-new-plastics-economy-catalysing-action
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We’ve put together this guide for a sustainable Christmas for you!
1. Think before You Buy
By thinking carefully before you buy can reduce your waste and save money! Ask yourself if they really need this purchase - will it actually be used?
- Can you buy locally? By buying local you’ll also be making a small business owners’ day!
- Can you choose to buy from a company that is doing good?
- Is there an alternative company with less packaging you can buy from?
- Can you buy something that is reusable or second-hand if possible?
2. Gift with Purpose
Choose gifts that are functional, ethical and/or do good. There are loads of cool companies out there doing great things around sustainability and giving back to our community and environment!
Our Honeywrap sustainable beeswax wraps are a pretty fabulous eco-gift, if we do say so ourselves! Our Bird of The Year wrap designed by our Honeywrap competition winner artist Elaine Bozza features a number of our native birds and $1 from each wrap goes to Forest and Bird. Perfect for any animal lover!
3. Go Homemade
There are so many fun ways to go homemade over the holiday time to reduce plastic waste from going into our landfills and oceans.
- Make your own wrapping paper: use the kids artwork, recycle old wrapping paper, use fabric or even use one of our Honeywrap beeswax wraps and give a double present!
- Tie your gifts with ribbon, string or fabric strips to avoid overuse of sellotape. Add in a sprig of rosemary or leaves to brighten up your present.
You could even make a gift!
- Do some baking! Some might say home-baked goodies are the best zero-waste gift. See how to make DIY cookies in a jar here.
- Plants are a cool, environmental-feel-good gift! Look at making someone special a terrarium. See how to make here.
4. Gift Experiences and Time
Buying an experience, a voucher or planning a special outing can be an amazing way to show someone you care about them and create memories that last forever, while also going zero waste!
Or Gift to a Charity:
There are loads of different charities that all offer cool ideas for Christmas, from giving a goat to the gift of sight.
Have a look at this awesome foundation here.
5. Decorations that Last
With all the plastic decorations out there and the packaging from the decorations that end up in the rubbish, it can be an easy area to go green! Go for a ‘less is more’ approach for Christmas and choose decorations that will last and be treasured for years. The decorations we keep from childhood with meaning are always the best ones as well!
Or get creative with your decorations. Pinterest has a million different ideas that will keep you or the kids busy.
Here’s one of our favourite homemade decorations.
One creative customer used our paper we wrap our Honeywrap website orders in, as a Christmas decoration! Another sustainable customer used our Honeywraps to wrap presents in so it’s a double Christmas present and saves on the wrapping paper!! Bonus points!
6. Low Waste Christmas Food
Thinking ahead and planning your festive feast saves on both money and waste! Coordinate with family to try and make just enough, not too much.
- Hit up your local farmers market before Christmas and suss all your grocery needs. Fresher food reduces food miles and supports your local community!
- Buy your ingredients from bulk stores and bring your own containers to avoid packaging.
- Make sure to use any leftovers and if you have too much, freeze the excess.
Go Green this Christmas and feel extra good knowing you’re giving a gift that you’re loved ones and the planet will love!
]]>Honeywrap is privileged to partner with Project Jonah again for the 6th year for Plastic Free July. Project Jonah is an incredible New Zealand organisation that responds to whale and dolphin strandings around the country. Project Jonah aims to inspire kiwis to care for and protect marine mammals and the oceans these animals call home, and we at Honeywrap share the same passion.
Our amazing Honeywrap beeswax wraps are a sustainable, natural, reusable alternative to plastic food wrap. Each Honeywrap saves 75 meters of plastic from entering our oceans, taking important steps towards saving our precious marine life! We have worked with our incredible kiwi artists and Project Jonah to create three beautiful Project Jonah designs to help raise awareness of the increasing issue of plastic pollution and the harmful effect plastic has on our oceans.
Honeywrap will donate $1 from every product sold for the month of Plastic Free July to Project Jonah and their valuable work.
Small steps collectively make a big difference so join us on the reuse revolution and help protect our marine life!
]]>So how do we reduce our waste and still keep the fun in Easter? Don’t worry we have you sorted with some amazing and handy simple tips!
1. Make your own eggs using molds from real egg shells or make chocolate bark
Making your own chocolate makes for a fun activity to do with kids, friends, family or on your own! This way you can see your eggs come to life and add ANY yummy flavours to your chocolate that you like! Some of my favorites to add are pretzels, dried raspberries or sea salt. Here’s a chocolate bark recipe that is super easy and you can make it your own by adding anything you like.
2. Bake your own hot cross buns
Way easier than you think and a great way to avoid unnecessary plastic packaging. Your hot cross buns couldn’t be more fresh and you are helping out our planet, it’s a win win!
Try out this super easy hot cross bun recipe… Enjoy!
3. Re-use foil wrappers in art projects
Instead of throwing your wrappers in the bin, hold onto them and get creative. Turn your Easter egg foil wrappers into fun art projects and with school holidays right after Easter it couldn’t be better timing. Get some inspiration from the amazing artwork made out of reused Easter Egg foil below. Get creative, have fun and see what you can do!
4. Use plastic free alternatives where possible
With Easter comes family lunches and get-togethers. Look to use plastic free alternatives where you can and avoid using single use plastic such as plastic food wrap, plastic straws or plastic cutlery. Honeywrap has some amazing alternatives that are easy to use, sustainable, beautiful and last for AGES!!!
5. Less is best
And lastly, a simple yet effective tip is looking for Easter options with less packaging. Seems obvious but it’s a goodie that our planet will thank you for!
Collectively small changes make a big difference! Start small and do what you can to reduce plastic and in turn help our environment, waterways and wildlife.
Join the reuse revolution!
]]>Why has plastic waste increased so much?
During the pandemic we have seen an increase in litter with disposable facemasks and rapid tests as well as a decrease in the use of single use plastic alternatives. Prior to the pandemic we saw the community having more of a focus around reducing their impact through the use and investment of sustainable, lasting products. However as Covid set in, the priorities of many changed as lives were turned upside down and the focus around reducing the use of single plastic declined. Overall the unknown, uncertainty and financial stress caused by COVID is what lead to the increase in plastic pollution and a backward step in working towards zero waste.
“Dr Dunn, head of The Plastic Research Centre of Wales at Bangor University, said while plastic was an important tool in preventing the spread of the virus and saving lives, the pandemic marked a "back step" in the fight against pollution.”
Not only did Covid hinder the use of sustainable products, the concern of spreading the virus also put a pause on a lot of the refill schemes, resulting in a reported increase in litter.
“Clare Reed, of the Marine Conservation Society, said a lot of progress was made before the pandemic to reduce single-use plastic, and then it was as if it was "all forgotten".”
Reuse Revolution
It’s time we take action and invest in sustainability and our environment.
Preserving our planet for future generations is vitally important and limiting our plastic usage is one way we can do our small part to help! We at Honeywrap are passionate about sustainability and are always looking at ways we can better ourselves and how we can help our community reduce plastic usage. We are proud of our Honeywrap family that have continued to keep the environment in mind when shopping by supporting us, local businesses and the charities and local artists we work with! Join the Honeywrap community and let's work together and take part in the plastic free movement! Small changes can make a big difference!
Check out our 8 Ways to Ditch Plastic From Your Life blog to get some simple and easy tips on how you can reduce your impact and help our planet!
]]>So why not go sustainable this year and give a gift that everyone on your Christmas list will love as well as the planet! If you’re stuck on how to reduce plastic waste we’ve done some research for you and put together a sustainable Christmas guide!
1. Think before You Buy
By thinking carefully before you buy can reduce your waste and save money!
2. Gift with Purpose
Choose gifts that are functional, ethical or do good. There are loads of cool companies out there doing great things around sustainability and giving back to our community and environment!
Our Honeywrap sustainable beeswax wraps are a pretty fabulous eco-gift, if we do say so ourselves! Our Bird of The Year wrap features the endangered Whio – Blue Duck and $1 from each wrap goes to Forest and Bird. Perfect for any animal lover!
3. Gift Experiences and Time
Buying an experience, a voucher or planning a special outing can be an amazing way to show someone you care about them and create memories that last forever, while also going zero waste!
Or Gift to a Charity:
There are loads of different charities that all offer cool ideas for Christmas, from giving a goat to the gift of sight.
Have a look at this awesome foundation here.
4. Decorations that Last
With all the plastic decorations out there and the packaging from the decorations that end up in the rubbish, it can be an easy area to go green! Go for a ‘less is more’ approach for Christmas and choose decorations that will last and be treasured for years. The decorations we keep from childhood with meaning are always the best ones as well!
Or get creative with your decorations. Pinterest has a million different ideas that will keep you or the kids busy.
Here’s one of our favourite homemade decorations.
One creative customer used our paper we wrap our Honeywrap website orders in, as a Christmas decoration! Another sustainable customer used our Honeywraps to wrap presents in so it’s a double Christmas present and saves on the wrapping paper!! Bonus points!
5. Low Waste Christmas Food
Thinking ahead and planning your festive feast saves on both money and waste! Coordinate with family to try and make just enough, not too much.
- Make sure to use any leftovers and if you have too much, freeze the excess.
- Buy your ingredients from bulk stores and bring your own containers to avoid packaging.
- Hit up your local farmers market before Christmas and suss all your grocery needs. Fresher food reduces food miles and supports your local community!
6. Go Homemade
There are so many fun ways to go homemade over the holiday time to reduce plastic waste from going into our landfills and oceans.
You could even make a gift!
Go Green this Christmas and feel extra good knowing you’re giving a gift that you’re loved ones and the planet will love!
]]>Honeywrap is passionate about reducing the amount of plastic on our planet – our amazing beeswax wraps are a sustainable, natural, reusable alternative to plastic for food storage. They are made in new Zealand from certified organic cotton and natural ingredients. Simply WRAP, RINSE & REPEAT.
Honeywrap’s owner Wendy Oliver believes: “It is about making a difference. We love partnering with charities and organisations and supporting the awesome work they do to protect nature and our wildlife. Making a difference is in our ethos and what we are all about”.
Each year Honeywrap releases limited-edition beeswax wraps featuring endangered birds to help Forest & Bird to raise awareness of our native birds, their habitats , and the treats they face. This year Honeywrap released the beautiful Bird of the Year wrap featuring the endangered Whio – Blue Duck and $1 from each wrap goes to Forest & Bird.
“We are proud to use our voice to support Forest & Bird, and to inspire people to care about our environment and amazing New Zealand birds.”
]]>Travelling during my last holidays made me realised how much plastic waste us kiwis make. So, upon my return I decided to change some of my habits towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Of course, it does not mean that I have eliminated ALL the plastic from my life as that sounds a bit terrifying. However, by taking little steps I think we can achieve a bigger goal.
In order to help combat this, I have come up with a few very simple but achievable actions on how to reduce the plastic use.
1. Use Reusable Food Wraps
Get rid of zip lock bags and cling wrap and get on board with reusable food wraps! Honestly, it is the BEST alternative to plastic cling wrap! You will never regret investing into good quality beeswax wraps that will last you a very long time.
Honeywrap Beeswax Food Wraps are reusable, sustainable and offer a natural alternative to plastic food wraps. Check out our bestseller Three Pack of Honeywrap.
2. Buy a Good Quality Reusable Drink Bottle
Instead of keep buying a single-use plastic water bottle that ends up in our landfills and oceans, a reusable water bottle is a superior option. Personally, I prefer a triple-walled insulated stainless-steel bottle as it keeps water cold for 24 hours and hot water hot for 12 hours! Check out Everyday Honeywrap Bottle. You can’t go wrong with that
3. Treat Yourself to Stylish Reusable Cutlery
Everyday tons of pieces of plastic cutlery are used once and then discarded, often ending up in our environment. Plastic cutlery has been listed as one of the most deadly plastics to marine life - this is forked! I try to remember to keep my Honeywrap Reusable Cutlery in my handbag as it is not only stylish and practical but also essential for a plastic free life.
4. Carry Reusable Stainless Steel Straws
Paper or plastic straws may seem small and harmless, but they accumulate very fast and end up entering our landfills and oceans. I have found that Honeywrap Stainless Steel Straws are not only durable meaning these straws will be the last I will ever need, but they also provide me with a deluxe drinking experience.
5. Try Reusable Organic Produce Bags
Have you already ditched your plastic carry bags? I definitely did! Then now it’s time to take the next step with these reusable produce bags, perfect for your fruit and veg. Honeywrap Organic Produce Bags are awesome as they are durable, washable, foldable, ideal for all kinds of produce as well as being great for the planet!
Also, I have found that buying in bulk rather than single serve individually packaged snacks, nuts and grains is cheaper! Just split them into little containers, Honeywrap or bulk bin bags. This will be cheaper and massively reduce plastic waste.
6. Choose Stainless Steel Pegs
If you keep throwing your plastic pegs because they keep breaking, then you need to invest into Stainless Steel Pegs. Made from Marine Grade Stainless Steel – Honeywrap Stainless Steel Pegs will not only hold a heavy towel in the wind but will last you a lifetime of washing! I’m so in love with mine and will never go back to using plastic pegs.
7. Drink from Keepcups
Keepcups been out now for a while and they are awesome! They look cool, more practical when you are on the go and save the environment! Also, some cafes will even give you a discount for using your own cup.
8. Use Your Power
And remember, plastic free living doesn’t have to be scary and overwhelming. It also doesn’t mean that you have to give up the things you love by ditching plastic. Small changes collectively will make a big difference. Choose products with less or no plastic and support your local NZ stores.
So, start small, take your time, have your essential reusables handy with you, and start building on your awesome sustainable habits.
- Olya Meehan, Honeywrap Sustainability and Communications Manager
]]>It has been a privilege to work with Daren and Louisa from Project Jonah to raise money to help such a worthwhile cause. Project Jonah is an awesome organisation responding to whale and dolphin strandings in New Zealand. As well as raising the profile of the plight of New Zealand marine animals and the need to educate people on what can be done to help care for and protect the huge diversity of whales and dolphins in New Zealand.
Honeywrap’s philosophy aligns with Project Jonah, inspired by nature and with a passion for reducing the amount of single-use plastic to help preserve the planet for the future, which in turn helps marine animals.
It was a team effort for the month of Plastic Free July with Project Jonah helping with the fund-raising campaign by running giveaways promotions on social media and working with influencers as well as Twitter and Instagram posts. Honeywrap also gave product to influences, ran giveaways promotions, sales promotion for our stockists, rolling sales on the website, and a 15% off sale on our Honeywrap website for the last 10 days.
The team at Honeywrap is committed to continuing to support organisations that are in line with our values such as Eat My Lunch.
Over the past three years Eat My Lunch has provided over 1,527,000 lunches to kiwi kids from 76 schools. We at Honeywrap thought the work Eat My Lunch was doing was so awesome we decided to partner with them and help provide some lunches to help Kiwi kids do better at school and focus on learning as well as put a smile on their faces. So next time you find yourself snackish at work, do good and order one of the their lunches. For every meal you buy a Give lunch will also be given to a growing Kiwi kid!
]]>“We are committed to conservation, communities and commerce working in harmony to create a sustainable healthier world, which is why there is a great synergy between our two organisations, working to reduce plastic in the oceans.”
This month we are partnering with Project Jonah to support Plastic Free July 2020!
Here at Honeywrap we are passionate getting as many people on board to go plastic free this July (and beyond)! This worldwide movement aims to reduce the waste from single use plastics and is something that aligns perfectly with the goals of both Honeywrap and Project Jonah. Project Jonah is a New Zealand charity driven by volunteers who are passionate about helping marine animals through their action and protection programs. This sentiment is echoed by Louisa, from Project Jonah, who strongly believes that "we are privileged to have such a huge diversity of whale and dolphin species in New Zealand and all New Zealanders have the responsibility to care for them”. You can read more about what they do here.
As part of the partnership Honeywrap will donate 50 cents from every single wrap and $1 from every multipack sold during July to Project Jonah, with the aim of raising at least $2020 for the charity.
Wendy Oliver, the new owner of Honeywrap and the fantastic Honeywrap team, have carried on the brand values and philosophy of Honeywrap. Wendy genuinely believes sustainability, health and wellbeing are important part of life. As a seventh generation New Zealand food producer, she is passionate about the preservation of the environment and natural, sustainable products.
]]>As working mums we hear you and can help. Making a litterless lunch doesn’t need to add stress and can actually help you save money and even encourage healthier food options!
So here are our team’s top tips to making litterless lunches easy and to start reducing the huge amount of packaging waste created by school lunches.
Start with one thing- if going litterless lunches seems totally overwhelming start with one little change first and commit to one day a week or changing one plastic item in the lunch box for the first week. This applies to all steps along your eco journey-just start with one thing.
Rethink- pause and take a few moments to stop and think do I really need this and what will happen to this when I am finished with it? This will help you to make better choices and choose food items with limited or no plastic packaging.
Choose a sturdy lunch box that will last or a brand that has a lifetime warranty. Ideally one with dividers to reduce wrapping needed. To keep food items fresh or tightly wrapped use a Honeywrap to avoid need for any plastic wrap.
Buy in bulk rather than single serve individually packaged snacks. Split them into little containers or your Honeywrap. This will be cheaper and massively reduce the plastic waste.
Replace individually wrapped yoghurt containers with a large container and pour into smaller containers adding your own flavour and also controlling the sugar. Replace individually wrapped chips with a large bag to split or make old fashioned popcorn.
This is packaging waste from a NZ school during one day!
Get your kids involved in preparing lunch or if you can’t handle the mess;)- Get them to come up with ideas of what to put in their lunch box. When you make it for them the likelihood they will throw food out they don’t like is is 99%
Pack leftovers- brilliant so much easier than having to think or make something. eg. quiche, kebab sticks, pasta salad, corn on the cob, meatballs etc. I plan my meal with school lunches in the back of my mind and take these portions out before serving dinner.
Make or bake your own- Get the kids to help again increasing likelihood they will eat it :) Popcorn is a great one to start, so fun to watch it pop. Takes five min either in a pot or you can make with a paper bag ( could reuse the one your mushrooms come in:) in the microwave
https://www.blessthismessplease.com/how-to-pop-popcorn-in-a-brown-paper-bag-the-microwave/
https://kidgredients.com.au/no-bake-chewy-choc-chip-muesli-bars/ This one is a healthier option muesli bar and you don't even need to cook it!
Remember just start with one thing… Love to hear you other ideas.
Wendy and the Honeywrap Team]]>
1. What do the different aspects of your job working for Project Jonah include?
We’re a team of two staff with a national charity to look after so our roles are mixed and varied (which I love!). Specifically I look after our volunteers, presenting and facilitating our Marine Mammal Medic training programme which we run nationally across the summer months, I look after our schools education programmes, supporter communication, all the social media and most importantly responding to whale and dolphin strandings around the country. Phew!
2. What Project Jonah-related memory has the most impact for you?
There are so many! Everybody remembers their first stranding and for me it was a young orca which was stranded at Te Arai beach, Mangawhai. I got the call late in the evening, so drove through the night, down an unmarked forest track (which is a story in itself) to get to the beach. It was freezing cold. Locals had got a truck down to the beach so we had some light and luckily it was a clear night and full moon. We spent a few hours getting this young whale into a set of rescue pontoons, ready for a refloat. I remember being fascinated by so many things – how a whales skin feels, how they smell, how loud they are when they breathe and most memorable was the sounds this whale was making to communicate with the rest of its pod which were waiting offshore. We usually wouldn’t refloat a whale at night but because conditions were so good, we got this whale in the pontoons and hooked it up to the local Surf Lifesaving boat. The whale was successfully refloated just after midnight. I remember being so happy I couldn’t sleep!
3. Is there anything you would say to someone new to learning about your organisation? What other ways can people get involved with helping our marine life?
Our marine mammals (whales and dolphins) are up against some really big challanges – increasing ocean temperatures, busier oceans, threats from fishing industries, food pressures and a massive amount of plastic in our ocean. We are an emergency response organisation – we’re there to help when whales get into difficulty, and we’re really good at coming together and responding to an emergency. But there is so much we can do in our daily lives to make theirs a little easier. Our choices directly impact the health of our oceans and the welfare of our marine mammals so its important we make good choices – refuse single use plastics, reuse what you can, think about what you’re eating – how it was produced and where it is from, think about how you travel and pick up rubbish when and where you can.
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