AUTO CLAVE - Our Journey to Reuse Packaging

Our Journey to Reuse Packaging

Pioneering Sustainable Solutions

Welcome to Saarinen Organics, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. I, Kay Saarinen, am excited to take you on our journey to reuse packaging. It all began 15years ago when we started our business, initially opting for recyclable packaging. However, as we became more aware of the challenges of greenwashing and landfill waste, we knew we had to find a better solution. Through collaboration with the prestigious CSIRO PracTera program and the dedication of our team of 6 university students, we embarked on a remarkable path that led us to the pioneering concept of reusing packaging. Join me as I share our inspiring story of sustainability, from philosophy to implementation, and how we became the first Australian skincare company to utilize hospital-grade equipment sterilizers powered by solar energy.

I. The Early Years: Choosing Recyclable Packaging

1. From the very beginning, we have been driven by a commitment to sustainability and the preservation of our environment. We understood the importance of packaging choices in minimizing waste and reducing our ecological footprint. In our early years, we focused on using recyclable packaging as a starting point. While this was a positive step, we soon realized that it wasn't enough to address the growing concerns of greenwashing and landfill waste.

II. The Quest for Sustainable Packaging

1. Partnering with CSIRO PracTera:  Seeking Expertise: Recognizing the need for a sustainable packaging solution, we partnered with the renowned CSIRO PracTera program. This collaboration allowed us to tap into the expertise of six talented university students who shared our passion for sustainability.  Philosophy and Research: Working closely with the students, we delved into philosophical discussions and conducted extensive research to determine the most effective and sustainable approach to packaging. Our goal was to find a solution that would truly make a difference in reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

2. Reuse: The Epiphany: a. Embracing the Concept: Through our collaboration with the CSIRO PracTera program, we had a remarkable epiphany: reusing packaging was the key to achieving our sustainability goals. It became evident that by extending the lifespan of packaging materials, we could significantly reduce waste and conserve resources. b. A Paradigm Shift: The realization that reuse was the optimal solution ignited a sense of excitement and determination within our team. We knew we had found the path to true sustainability.

III. Implementing Reuse: The Journey Continues

1. Collaboration with CSIRO Scientists: a. Seeking Technical Expertise: To transform the concept of reusing packaging into a practical reality, we reengaged with the esteemed scientists at CSIRO. Their technical knowledge and experience were invaluable in shaping our implementation strategy. b. Washing and Sterilization: Through extensive research and experimentation, we discovered that the key to successful reuse lay in a two-step process: washing and sterilization. It was imperative to ensure that our reused packaging met stringent quality and hygiene standards.

2. The Autoclave Solution: Pioneering Sterilization a. Hospital-Grade Sterilization: Our pursuit of excellence led us to invest in a groundbreaking solution: an autoclave, a hospital-grade equipment sterilizer. This cutting-edge technology enabled us to achieve the highest standards of cleanliness and safety for our reused packaging. b. Solar-Powered Sustainability: As a company deeply committed to renewable energy, we harnessed the power of solar energy to operate our autoclave. This groundbreaking combination of sterilization and solar power made Saarinen Organics the first Australian skincare company to adopt such an environmentally friendly approach.

IV. The Impact of Reuse: A Sustainable Revolution

1. Minimizing Waste and Greenwashing: a. Landfill Diversion: By reusing packaging, we have successfully diverted a significant amount of waste from landfills, contributing to the reduction of our environmental footprint. b. Combatting Greenwashing: Reuse ensures that our commitment to sustainability goes beyond mere claims. We actively demonstrate our dedication to the environment by implementing practical solutions that make a tangible difference.

2. Inspiring Change and Collaboration: a. Industry Leadership: Through our pioneering efforts, we aim to inspire other skincare companies and businesses across industries to explore reusable packaging solutions. Together, we can drive a sustainable revolution and shape a future where waste is minimized, and resources are conserved. b. Collaboration for a Better World: Our journey to reuse packaging would not have been possible without the collaboration and expertise of the CSIRO PracTera program and the dedication of our team. By working together, we can create a world where sustainability is the norm, not the exception.

Our journey to reuse packaging has been one of excitement, innovation, and sustainability. From our humble beginnings to becoming the first Australian skincare company to utilize hospital-grade sterilizers powered by solar energy, we have embraced the power of reusability to minimize waste and preserve our planet. Through collaboration with the CSIRO PracTera program, we discovered that reusing packaging is not only environmentally responsible but also a practical and effective solution. We invite you to join us on this inspiring journey of sustainability, where we can make a lasting impact and create a brighter future for generations to come. Together, let's champion reuse and pave the way for a truly sustainable world.