With millions of disposable pens ending up in landfill annually, switching to eco-friendly pens can help reduce plastic waste and promote a greener future.
In today’s world, where environmental concerns are growing louder, even the smallest changes in our daily habits can significantly impact the planet. One such shift is adopting eco-friendly pens, a sustainable alternative to the popular plastic pens that dominate offices, schools, and homes.
The environmental impact of traditional plastic pens
Plastic pens are convenient, cost-effective, and readily available. However, their environmental cost is staggering. Traditional pens are made of non-biodegradable plastic, meaning they can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. When discarded, they contribute to the ever-growing problem of plastic pollution, harming wildlife, ecosystems, and even human health.
According to estimates, over 1.6 billion disposable pens are thrown away every year. With each pen typically containing a mix of plastics, metals, and chemical inks, recycling them is nearly impossible. Most of these pens end up in landfill or, worse, in oceans, where they break down into microplastics. These particles infiltrate the food chain, posing risks to marine life and humans alike.
What are eco-friendly pens?
Eco-friendly pens are designed to minimise environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. They are typically made from sustainable, biodegradable, or recyclable materials such as bamboo, recycled paper, and recycled aluminium. These pens offer a simple yet effective way to cut down on plastic waste while promoting sustainability. By choosing eco-friendly pens, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint but also supporting businesses that prioritise ethical and eco-conscious production.
Types of eco-friendly pens from Fast Pens
Biodegradable pens – while our bamboo ball pens decompose naturally when discarded, leaving no harmful residues behind, the chrome trim requires recycling. Made from sustainable bamboo, they are available as printed ballpoint pens or engraved ballpoint pens.
Recycled material pens - these eco-friendly pens are crafted from recycled paper available engraved or printed, and from recycled aluminium and plastic from cans and bottles. Using discarded waste materials not only gives them a second lease of life and keeps them out of landfill sites, but also reduces manufacturers’ need for new raw materials.
The benefits of switching to eco pens
Reduced plastic waste - by choosing sustainable alternatives, you contribute to cutting down the volume of plastic waste generated daily.
Lower carbon footprint - many eco-friendly pens are produced using renewable energy or materials, reducing the environmental toll of manufacturing.
Promotes conscious consumption - switching to green alternatives helps foster a mindset of responsibility toward the planet, inspiring others to make sustainable choices. This can be particularly pertinent for small businesses using branded eco-friendly pens as promotional merchandise.
Aesthetic appeal – our eco-friendly pens have been thoughtfully designed, with natural textures and materials that add a touch of elegance to your writing tools.
How to make the switch to eco pens
Transitioning to eco-friendly branded pens with Fast Pens is simple and requires minimal effort. As part of The J&A Group, our principles of sustainability rest at the core of our business, and we strive to facilitate the process for customers by imposing no minimum order quantities. Where customers do purchase in larger quantities, we can of course reduce the packaging waste associated with individual purchases. Branded eco pens and custom eco pens can be created quickly and easily via our online design engine, allowing you to use your own logo and design or to create fresh artwork, without incurring set-up fees or artwork charges.
Eco-friendly stationery from Fast Pens
Eco-friendly pens may seem like a small change, but their collective impact can be monumental. In addition to our eco-friendly custom pens, we also supply a range of eco-friendly stationery that includes eco-friendly notebooks and eco branded pencils. By choosing sustainable alternatives, you’re taking a step toward reducing pollution and conserving resources. It’s a simple yet powerful way to contribute to a healthier planet, one word at a time. New customers wishing to find out more can call the team on 01790 729833, while the dedicated line for existing customers is 01790 755833, and of course all email enquiries are welcomed.
