What you should look for in a sustainable candle.
Hidden toxins in candles: What you need to know and sustainable alternatives
In the soft glow of candlelight, few of us think about what’s actually burning. As research sheds light on the composition of traditional, mass-produced candles, Made Trade explains that there is a growing movement towards sustainable candle alternatives, promising potential benefits for personal wellbeing and the environment.
A brief history of candle making
People have enjoyed the gentle flicker of candlelight for more than 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptians soaked reed cores in melted animal wax; ancient Romans began using rolled papyrus and melted beeswax or animal wax known as tallow; and early Chinese candles were made from wax from native insects, mixed with seeds on molded paper tubes and fitted with a rice paper wick.
The evolution of candle making reflects broader technological and environmental trends. In the 19th century, paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, quickly became popular due to its low cost and consistent burning properties. However, as awareness of environmental issues grew in the late 20th century, interest in traditional and new sustainable materials revived.
While we still use some of these ancient materials today, such as beeswax, newer alternatives such as soy and coconut wax are becoming increasingly popular, known for their renewable raw materials and clean burning properties.
The global candle and sustainable candle landscape
Candle production and use varies around the world and is influenced by cultural practices, available resources and regulatory frameworks. In the European Union, the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation sets strict standards for the use of chemical substances in consumer products, including candles. This has led to a faster adoption of plant-based waxes in EU countries.
In contrast, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates candles primarily through labeling requirements and restrictions on certain materials, such as banning the sale of candles with lead wicks. In countries like Japan, traditional wax alternatives are experiencing a renaissance, such as sumac wax made from the berries of the wax tree, which combines ancient practices with modern sustainability concerns.
These global differences reflect different approaches to balancing tradition, innovation and environmental awareness in candle production.
Understanding today’s candles
Many popular mass-produced candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum extraction. Some studies have shown that paraffin candles may release harmful chemicals when burned. However, it’s important to note that the scientific consensus on the health effects of different types of candles is still evolving.
Additionally, paraffin wax candles are known to produce soot, which can stain the candle vessels and contribute to indoor air pollution.
The wick is another important component to look out for. In 2003, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of lead-core wicks due to health concerns. Although violations of this ban do occur occasionally, lead-core wicks are less common in domestically manufactured candles, but can be found in candles imported into the United States.
Many conventional candles also contain synthetic fragrance oils. While these produce a pleasant scent, some consumers have raised concerns about potential health effects. However, more research is needed to link synthetic fragrances in candles to certain health problems, such as asthma, hormone imbalances and cancer.
A healthier alternative: Sustainable candles
Sustainable candles offer a natural alternative that many find attractive. Here’s what sets them apart:
Wax is important: Sustainable candles often use soy wax, which is derived from soybeans or natural beeswax. Soy wax production is efficient – after oil extraction, soybean residue can be used as animal feed, minimizing waste. Although many sources claim that soy wax burns longer than paraffin, the actual burn time can vary depending on factors such as candle size and composition.
Coconut wax: Another emerging player in the sustainable candle market is coconut wax. Derived from coconut oil, this wax is growing in popularity due to its clean burning properties and sustainable sourcing. Coconut wax is biodegradable and often produces less soot than traditional paraffin wax. It is also known for its excellent fragrance performance, meaning it can effectively fill a room with scent. Like soy wax, coconut wax is renewable and can be produced without petrochemicals. However, like any agricultural product, the sustainability of coconut wax depends on responsible farming practices and production methods.
Beeswax Brilliance: Among sustainable candles, beeswax stands out for its long history and natural origins. Beeswax candles are produced by honeybees and are known for their naturally sweet scent and warm, golden glow. These candles are known for their long burn time. Although beeswax candles are often more expensive than other types, many consumers appreciate their environmental benefits – they are biodegradable, renewable, and their production supports beekeeping, which is vital for pollination and ecosystem health. However, it is important to ensure that beeswax candles come from responsibly managed hives to maintain their sustainability credentials.
Wick wisdom: Sustainable candles usually have a wooden wick or a braided, slow-burning wick made from 100% cotton. Wooden wicks, usually made from powdered fruit trees, have a lower flame compared to cotton wicks and are known to release fragrance evenly and produce minimal soot. An interesting feature is that they produce a soft, crackling sound when burning.
Sense of smell: Instead of synthetic fragrance oils, sustainable candles often use essential oils, which can provide aromatherapeutic benefits.
Environmental impacts: Soy wax is biodegradable and is derived from a renewable resource: soybeans. Soy candles have been proven to have a lower carbon footprint than paraffin candles, mainly due to the renewable nature of the raw material. However, the overall environmental impact depends on various factors, including farming methods, processing and transportation. Sustainable candle manufacturers must therefore ensure that the soybeans used to make their soy wax candles are grown and harvested sustainably.
Environmental impact: A closer look
The environmental impact of candles goes beyond just burning them. When comparing soy, coconut and paraffin candles, several factors come into play:
Procurement of raw materials: Soy and coconut are renewable resources, while paraffin is a byproduct of petroleum refining.
Production: In general, less energy is required to produce soy and coconut wax than paraffin.
Combustion: Candles made from soy and coconut wax typically produce less soot and fewer potentially harmful emissions.
End of life: Unlike paraffin, soy and coconut wax are biodegradable.
However, it is important to remember that the overall environmental footprint depends on factors such as agricultural practices, transport and packaging. For example, intensive soya farming, if not managed sustainably, can lead to deforestation and habitat loss. This complexity underlines the importance of considering the entire life cycle when assessing the sustainability of a product.
Switching to sustainability: What you need to pay attention to
1. Check the wax type: Look for candles made from soy, coconut, beeswax or other plant-based or natural waxes.
2. Examine the wick: Make sure they are 100% cotton or wood. While lead-containing wicks are banned, it’s always good to be careful about what you buy, as lead-core wicks can be found in mass-produced imported candles.
3. Examine the scent: Consider using candles scented with essential oils and natural fragrances without synthetic fragrances.
4. Look at the container: Some brands offer candles in reusable or recyclable containers.
5. Read labels carefully: Pay attention to transparency regarding ingredients and production methods.
Although sustainable candles can sometimes be more expensive, the potential benefits are worth considering for many consumers, especially when used as gifts.
The big picture
Choosing between traditional and sustainable candles goes beyond personal preference—it’s a decision that impacts both the immediate environment and the world as a whole. While a single candle may seem insignificant, consumer choices can influence market trends and drive demand for sustainable materials and practices. By choosing candles made from soy, coconut, or beeswax with natural scents and lead-free wicks, you can reduce your exposure to indoor air pollutants and support renewable resources.
This growing interest in sustainable candles reflects a shift toward conscious consumption and eco-friendly living. As people become more aware of how their choices impact their homes and the environment, engaging with sustainable candles offers a way to continue the timeless tradition of candlelight while staying true to your values. Whether you like the clean burn of soy, the superior scent of coconut wax, or the natural beauty of beeswax, switching to sustainable candles is an insightful step toward a more conscious and sustainable lifestyle.
This story was produced by Trade made and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media.
