A comprehensive guide to help you understand what makes a pen eco-friendly, the benefits of using them, and how to choose the best options for your needs.
As sustainability becomes more important than ever, small choices can significantly impact the environment. Something as simple as switching to eco-friendly pens is a step toward reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices.
What are eco-friendly pens?
Eco-friendly pens are writing instruments designed with sustainability in mind. Unlike traditional plastic pens, which often end up in landfills, eco-friendly pens are made from materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable. Common materials include bamboo, recycled paper, metal, and biodegradable plastics. These pens are also manufactured using processes that minimize environmental harm, such as reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption.
Why switch to eco-friendly pens?
Reduce plastic waste – traditional plastic pens undoubtedly contribute to the growing plastic pollution crisis. Over 1.6 billion disposable pens are discarded annually worldwide, many of which end up in landfills or the ocean. Eco-friendly pens offer a sustainable alternative that reduces waste.
Support sustainable practices - by choosing eco-friendly pens, you support manufacturers that prioritise environmentally responsible practices. These companies use recycled materials, reduce packaging waste, and implement ethical work practices.
Healthier for you and the planet - eco-friendly pens often avoid harmful chemicals used in conventional pen manufacturing. This benefits both the environment and the user, especially when using pens made from natural materials like bamboo.
Types of eco-friendly pens
Recycled pens - at Fast Pens, we stock two different recycled eco-friendly pens. The recycled paper pen is available to print or engrave and is offered in a choice of trim colour. Alternatively, customers can select the printable, recycled aluminium pen, made from old cans and plastic water bottles, which can also be printed or engraved. All options are ballpoint click pens and all have given second life to waste materials which helps to reduce the demand for new raw materials.
Biodegradable pens – these are pens that will decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues and can be manufactured from materials like cornstarch, bamboo, or other organic substances. Our bamboo ball pen can be printed or engraved. As bamboo is a fast-growing renewable resource that requires minimal water and pesticides, these pens combine durability with sustainability.
How to choose the right eco-friendly pen
Material - look for pens made from sustainable, biodegradable, or recycled materials. Bamboo and recycled paper are excellent choices for a lightweight and eco-conscious option.
Durability - ensure the pen is sturdy and long-lasting. A durable pen reduces the frequency of replacements, further minimising waste.
Refillability - choose refillable pens whenever possible. These are more cost-effective and reduce the need for repeated purchases.
Design and functionality - sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Choose a pen that writes smoothly and fits comfortably in your hand.
Tips for responsible use
• Recycle your pens whenever possible - many local recycling centres accept used pens for proper disposal.
• Choose bulk purchases as these will not only bring the unit price of the pens down but it will also reduce packaging waste.
• Support suppliers that actively contribute to environmental causes.
Sustainability and eco-friendly stationery from Fast Pens
At Fast Pens, as part of The J&A Group, we uphold the principles of sustainability and we prioritise socially and environmentally responsible practices. We are passionate about our products, which include personalised stationery such as eco-friendly pens and eco-friendly notebooks made from cork. We endeavour at all times to provide eco-friendly packaging for our products and, as a group, we are proud to be carbon neutral as we continually strive to reduce our carbon emissions. Click to learn more about our sustainability ethos.
For new customers wanting to find out more about our bamboo promotional pens or any of our eco-friendly stationery, please call 01790 729833; the dedicated line for existing customers is 01790 755833. We can always be contacted by email too.
