The candle industry has a sustainability problem. Mass-produced paraffin candles, synthetic packaging, and long international supply chains all have an environmental cost. But choosing a more sustainable candle is straightforward once you know what to look for. Here is a practical guide.
The environmental impact of candles
Most candles sold in the UK are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum by-product. Paraffin is non-renewable, produces more soot than plant-based waxes, and is often shipped from overseas. Add synthetic fragrance chemicals, non-recyclable packaging, and plastic components, and the environmental footprint of a typical mass-market candle is significant.
What makes a candle more eco-friendly?
Plant-based wax
Soy, rapeseed, and coconut wax are all renewable, biodegradable alternatives to paraffin. Soy wax is the most widely available in the UK. Rapeseed wax is increasingly popular as a locally grown British alternative that avoids the carbon footprint of imported soy.
Cotton wicks
Natural cotton wicks are biodegradable and produce a cleaner burn than synthetic alternatives. Avoid candles with metal-core wicks, which are less environmentally friendly.
Reusable or recyclable vessels
A candle in a glass jar or metal tin that can be cleaned and reused is significantly more sustainable than one in a single-use container. Look for makers who encourage customers to repurpose their vessels.
Minimal and recyclable packaging
Excessive packaging is one of the most visible sustainability issues in the candle industry. Look for makers who use minimal, recyclable, or compostable packaging rather than layers of plastic and foam.
Short supply chains
A candle made in the UK and sold directly to UK customers has a significantly smaller carbon footprint than one manufactured overseas and shipped across the world. Buying from a British maker is one of the most effective sustainability choices you can make.
Fragrance safety
Look for makers who use fragrance oils that comply with IFRA (International Fragrance Association) standards. These standards limit the use of certain synthetic compounds and encourage safer, more responsible fragrance formulation.
The most sustainable choice
The most sustainable candle is one that is made locally, uses plant-based wax, comes in a reusable vessel, and is packaged minimally. A soy candle from a small British maker ticks all of these boxes and typically outperforms mass-market alternatives on quality as well.
The Victorian Candle Co. uses premium soy wax, reusable tins and jars, and minimal packaging. All candles are hand-poured in Carlisle, Cumbria. Browse our Scented Soy Candles or explore our Best Sellers.