Hey Tagua Squad! Every April 22nd, Earth Day reminds us of our duty to protect the environment. Embrace eco-friendly habits and sustainability to protect our planet. This year, mark the occasion by wearing TAGUA BELLA tagua jewelry as a stylish statement of your support .
Did you know humanity produces 430 million tons of plastic a year, two-thirds of which are short-lived products that quickly become waste*. While there is no real data on the amount of plastic jewelry and accessories produced in a year, I invite you to take a deeper look at what is available at your favorite local store.
Eco-friendly and sustainable tagua earrings make only a small contribution to the zero waste initiative, but just like choosing a reusable straw, I’m of the philosophy that every bit helps contribute to a greener planet.
Tagua nuts, also known as vegetable ivory, are the seeds of certain palm trees found in the tropical rainforests of Ecuador. When dried, these nuts bare a striking resemblance to ivory, making them a sustainable and ethical alternative for crafting exquisite jewelry pieces.
One of the main reasons Tagua Bella jewelry supports the zero-waste initiative is its eco-friendly production process. I recently confirmed this with the artisans that these pieces are made by hand and not by machine. He assured me each is made by hand with the assistance of small tools for drilling, shaping and sanding, but never mass produced like traditional jewelry.
Let’s show the world that sustainability and style go hand in hand. Each piece tells a story of sustainability and celebrates the beauty of Mother Earth. Pair it with your favorite outfit, and you're not just making a fashion statement – you're making a statement for the planet.
Read on for more Tagua Bella approved ways to eliminate single use plastics in your daily life. Until next time, stay full of life, full of color. And keep spreading the tagua love! xo, Amber
—Stylish ways to minimize your plastic use:
1. Bring Your Own Reusable Bags: I have a slight tote bag addiction which never feels wrong when I use them instead of plastic ones when grocery shopping or running errands.
2. Invest in a Reusable Water Bottle: I think it’s funny that when I was a kid, no one would dare have a water bottle on their desk all day, or ever for that matter. And no one ever told me to drink water. I guess that’s why we were all dying and drinking from the hose the minute water came out. I love that in 2024 we all carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
3: Choose Glass or Metal Containers: Store food in glass containers or metal tins rather than plastic bags or disposable containers. I need to do better here. I definitely have many containers, but I also love a ziplock, and today I cringe.
4. Ditch Single-Use Waste: Opt for reusable alternatives for a more sustainable lifestyle. My restaurant uses cloth napkins and reusable straws. We’re desperate to eliminate the styrofoam packaging found everywhere in Ecuador… we charge for packaging in a way to encourage folks to bring their reusable containers from home. Since opening, we’ve tried to source a planet friendly alternative. Zero styrofoam is a goal for 2024. We’re on it!
5. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join beach & community clean-ups, or recycling programs to reduce plastic pollution. I love that my community in Ecuador does a lot of beach cleanups. My restaurant provided lunch for the most recent effort.
6: AND LASTLY, Support Sustainable Brands Like Tagua Bella: I’m really proud of the sustainability of our jewelry. Not only does our product have zero waste, but tagua traditions greatly serve to preserve the rainforest from clearing for more lucrative uses.
1) Scroll up and shop some tagua! 2) Scroll down and hit the Facebook button to follow for deals and inspo. 3) Raise a glass to Earth Day!
*quote source: United Nations