ALIBALS' ETHOS
The environment always comes first at Alibals. This is why every aspect of the business tries to reflect this as much as possible, from the wax used to the way the products are packaged.
The wax used
Soy wax was originally chosen for all Alibals' candles because it’s a cleaner alternative to paraffin wax, which is derived from crude oil and its extraction can harm the environment. Soy wax is known for producing a cleaner burn and being easier to clean up in case of a spillage. It’s also considered non-toxic and non-carcinogenic, though this claim is still debated and not yet scientifically proven.
However, because soy is often over-farmed and around 90% of soybeans are treated with harmful herbicides like Roundup, which contains Glyphosate, a more sustainable alternative was needed. This is where rapeseed and coconut wax comes in. Sourced and blended in Europe (unlike soy wax, which often comes from the U.S. and adds to carbon emissions from transportation), this wax is made purely from rapeseed and coconut with no paraffin, soy, beeswax, palm, or synthetic additives.
As a result, the natural composition of this wax may cause the surface to appear slightly 'frosted' or uneven, but rest assured, it doesn’t affect the candle’s scent throw or performance. By choosing this wax, you're supporting a more eco-friendly and sustainable option.
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zero waste, plastic & packaging
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To help reduce waste, second-hand packaging and cardboard boxes are often reused to send out products. If you receive any plastic packaging, rest assured it’s been repurposed from a previous delivery. Please consider reusing it for your own parcels or, if it’s no longer needed, turn it into eco-bricks! Learn how to make them here.
Plastic wrapping will never be purchased, and even the tape used is made from recycled paper.
For more tips on living a plastic-free lifestyle, visit www.practicallyplasticfree.com.
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Why use fragrance over essential oils for candles?
Initially, the idea of offering a fully natural range was appealing. However, after understanding the environmental impact of using only essential oils, it was decided that a predominantly synthetic range would be more sustainable. Producing just a small drop of essential oil requires significantly more land, water, and time than creating a fragrance oil, where scientists can replicate nature-identical scents without the same environmental cost. Additionally, non-organic essential oils often require the use of pesticides and herbicides.
There’s also the consideration of pet safety, as burning certain essential oils—especially tea tree—can be harmful to animals.
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Reusing your tin
While the candle tins were initially welcomed back for reuse, it was found that the surface area where the wick attaches could sometimes have a slight residue. This meant the wick wouldn't adhere properly to the tin and might end up 'floating' in the wax, rendering the candle unusable. To avoid any disappointment, the tins can no longer be returned.
However, there are still many ways to repurpose your tin. You can use them for tealights, drill holes in the bottom and turn them into plant pots, or simply recycle them!
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