Eco-Conscious maltese jewellery
At Peprin, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it's a core value that guides every aspect of our jewelry-making process. From the materials we choose to the techniques we employ, our commitment to ethical craftsmanship and environmental stewardship is unwavering.
Eco-Conscious Materials
Polymer Clay: One of the standout features of our jewelry is the locally sourced polymer clay. By choosing local suppliers, we support our community and reduce carbon emissions from transportation. Our manufacturer operates entirely on renewable energy, making polymer clay an eco-friendly choice. Unlike single-use plastics, polymer clay is durable and meant to last for generations, promoting sustainable consumption. It's also free from harmful substances, vegan-friendly, and not tested on animals, aligning with our ethical values.
Gold-Plated Brass: At the heart of our designs is gold-plated brass, offering the luxurious look of gold while being eco-friendly. Brass is fully recyclable and can be renewed repeatedly without losing quality, reducing reliance on mining new metals. If the gold plating ever fades, the jewelry can easily be re-plated, giving it new life and reducing waste.
Gold Foil Imitation and Epoxy Resin: To add a touch of luxury without harming the environment, we incorporate gold foil imitation. It provides a rich gold look without the negative impacts of gold mining. A very thin layer of epoxy resin enhances durability, reducing material use and waste while keeping the piece lightweight and sustainable.
Sustainable Manufacturing Processes
Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond materials to our manufacturing processes. We practice zero-waste by reusing all excess clay, scraps, and off-cuts in future projects, reducing waste and sparking creativity. By using manual tools like pasta machines and precision knives, we significantly cut down on energy consumption compared to industrial machinery. Additionally, our workspace is in the process of being powered by solar panels, further reducing our carbon footprint.
Giving Back
We believe in giving back to the environment that inspires us. We make annual donations to the local NGO Zibel, dedicated to cleaning up coastal areas. This offsets the carbon emissions from our business and helps preserve vital ecosystems. Last year's donation contributed to adding a waste collection bin in a bay, allowing anyone to dispose of ocean plastic, Styrofoam, fishing gear, and ropes found on the coast. Learn more about this NGO at www.zibel.org.
Rethinking Materials
It's essential to challenge common ideas about materials and their environmental impacts. While metals are often seen as eco-friendly due to their recyclability, mining and processing them involve significant environmental emissions, disrupt wildlife, and damage natural habitats. In contrast, materials like polymer clay offer a sustainable alternative. Polymer clay requires less energy and fewer raw materials to produce, curing at just 135°C compared to ceramics, which need firing at much higher temperatures. This makes polymer clay an eco-friendly choice for handmade jewelry.
My Sustainable Focus
Instead of sticking to traditional ideas of sustainability, we focus on animal-friendly, non-toxic materials made using renewable energy. This holistic approach ensures a minimal carbon footprint. With our supplier's commitment to sustainable energy and our shift to solar-powered operations, we're actively contributing to a more sustainable future for jewelry-making.
Ultimately, our jewelry is more than just adornment—it's a symbol of what can happen when creativity and sustainability come together. By thoughtfully choosing materials and embracing eco-friendly practices, we've crafted pieces that are kind to the planet and captivating to the eye. They reflect our values and show our dedication to environmental stewardship without sacrificing beauty or quality.
At Peprin, we believe in the responsible use of materials and the importance of longevity in our products. By creating high-quality, durable jewelry, we ensure that each piece is not only a beautiful addition to your collection but also a step towards reducing the demand for disposable plastic items. Our commitment extends beyond our products to our practices, as we continuously seek ways to minimize our environmental impact and support the community. We hope that our efforts inspire others to think about sustainability in all aspects of life, from the materials they choose to the actions they take.
Our packaging is also all paper-based. Read more about it in the following post.