Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at Parade Handmade; it’s a promise. From the moment an idea sparks to the time a product reaches your doorstep, every decision reflects my commitment to reducing environmental impact. Let’s explore how Parade Handmade "cleans up after itself" and why thoughtful crafting makes a world of difference.
Carbon-Neutral Shipping: Cleaning Up After Ourselves
E-commerce deliveries leave a carbon footprint, but at Parade Handmade, I’ve embraced a proactive approach. With the help of a carbon-offset app on my website, every order contributes to cleaning the air. Here’s how it works:
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Calculated Emissions: For each order, an algorithm estimates shipping emissions.
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Carbon Removal Investment: A portion of the revenue funds vetted carbon removal companies, such as:
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Heirloom: Enhancing natural minerals to capture CO₂ from the air.
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Remora: Capturing CO₂ directly from semi-truck tailpipes during transit.
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Charm: Converting plant waste into carbon-rich liquid stored deep underground.
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This initiative ensures carbon-neutral shipping while supporting the advancement of cutting-edge carbon removal technologies. So, every delivery is a step toward a cleaner planet. (See links to sustainability page with video at end of blog post.)
Small-Scale Crafting: The True Essence of Handmade
At Parade Handmade, I take pride in crafting on a small scale, where waste is virtually nonexistent. Unlike factory or mass production, my collections are truly handmade. Let’s talk about one of my pet peeves: products marketed as "handcrafted" but made by machines. There’s no comparison to the care and tradition behind my hand-knitted Aran pieces and other hand knitted items which are created stitch by stitch with needles. This authentic approach not only preserves traditional methods but also drastically reduces waste.
Thoughtful Materials: Sustainability at the Core
I try to make sure every material I use tells a story of resourcefulness and responsibility:
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Recycled Fabrics: Many of my creations feature textiles salvaged from upholstery and other industries. These materials are given a second life, reducing landfill waste.
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Natural and Sustainable Choices: I avoid synthetic fabrics, plastics and glittler, wherever possible. My remaining silk stock, fleece and any other offending materials purchased years ago, is used sparingly, (except glitter which I simply cannot bring myself to use anymore), and I’m committed to sourcing only sustainable fabrics in the future and if not then minimal amounts of materials that are derived from processes that harm the earth.
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Recycled Packaging: From lightweight tissue and string to reused cardboard boxes and paper streamers, I minimise plastic. Bubble envelopes are a last resort, and even then, they’re recycled.
Print On Demand: Minimising Overproduction
For accessories and art cards, I’ve adopted Print On Demand. This method ensures I only produce what’s needed, avoiding excess stock and waste. The only exception? My art cards, mass-printed to share the beauty of my original paintings.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond the Craft
My sustainability journey goes beyond crafting. By carefully selecting materials, embracing carbon-neutral shipping, and committing to eco-friendly packaging, Parade Handmade is part of a broader movement to protect the planet. Every small step counts, and I hope my choices inspire others to think sustainably.
Why It Matters
By supporting Parade Handmade, you’re not just investing in unique, artisan-crafted pieces—you’re joining a community that values sustainability. Together, we’re proving that creativity and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
Let’s make thoughtful choices, embrace tradition, and create a greener future—one handmade piece at a time.
Shop Sustainably: [Browse the Fab Giftware Collections] from Parade Handmade here]
Learn More: [Link to Sustainability Page]
Until next time, Amanda
