How I'm making my wildlife illustration business more sustainable

In a world where environmental consciousness is more important than ever, I believe businesses have an even bigger responsibility to minimise their ecological footprint, not only for their own impact but also for customers to have the chance to make better choices. As a wildlife illustrator, I've made it my mission to ensure that my passion for art and creating doesn't come at the expense of the planet, but there is always room for improvement. Here's how I'm making my wildlife illustration business more sustainable:

Illustrated tea towels have a paper belly band sealed
together with paper sticker. 

Eco-Friendly Packaging

As my business is predominantly online, packaging plays a crucial role in my business to protect delicate artwork in transit, but as an artist, I also want to make it pretty and an experience in itself. To minimise waste and environmental impact, I've switched to using recyclable materials wherever possible. From cardboard boxes that are hand stamped for postage to illustrated paper tape for sealing packages,.  Even stickers are packaged in paper envelopes, and when I must use clear bags, I opt for biodegradable cello that breaks down in household waste. While these choices may come at a higher cost, they align with my commitment to reducing single-use plastics and promoting eco-friendly alternatives that my customers do not have to worry about disposing of. 

Recycled plastic keyrings are made with materials previously
intended for landfill.

Mindful Material Choices

As an illustrator, the materials I use directly impact both the quality of my artwork and its environmental footprint. While I previously experimented with seed paper for printing thank you cards, I encountered 'challenges' (imagine me throwing my printer out the window) with its thickness and the viability of printing on it without compromising the seeds. I decided to use regular paper for my prints, printed by UK companies. By prioritising functionality and sustainability, I can deliver high-quality artwork without compromising on eco-friendly practices.

Educating customers about the eco-friendly choices we've made is essential for fostering a culture of sustainability. I make sure to include information on my packaging, reminding customers to dispose of materials responsibly and providing clear instructions on how to recycle or compost them. By transparently communicating our commitment to sustainability, I empower customers to make informed choices and join us in our efforts to protect the planet.

Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and I'm constantly exploring new ways to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact in my business operations. Whether it's sourcing eco-friendly materials, optimizing packaging designs for efficiency, or exploring alternative printing methods, I'm committed to embracing innovation and finding creative solutions to environmental challenges.

By prioritizing sustainability in every aspect of my wildlife illustration business, I'm not only reducing my environmental footprint but also inspiring others to embrace eco-friendly practices. Together, we can create a more sustainable future where art and nature thrive in harmony.