“Keeping it clean” – circular economy principles in an ecofriendly laundry company

Text written for a report for Bide Boxes. This UK company implements a new production method to create ecofriendly laundry and dishwashing products. Ingredients are sourced locally, then shipped to “homemakers” who assemble the products and distribute them locally.

Our Vision

We love clean concepts of all kinds, and keeping our planet clean is our top priority. 

We are increasingly aware that the products we use to keep clean in fact have a disastrous effect on our environment – from the massive amount of waste generated by single-use plastic, flown around the world, before inevitably adding to the chemical pollution of our rivers.

We also know that so much of the devastation wreaked by climate change is completely preventable, and we are determined to find more environmentally-friendly solutions that align with our values: honesty, transparency and preserving earth’s beauty for future generations.

Here’s how we are changing things.   

Existing cleaning products

Virtually all UK households consume detergents for washing machines or dishwashers. Traditional products use harmful chemicals and are too intensive – harming the environment, and adding to your carbon footprint. “Universal design principles’ ‘ which guided product design in the past encouraged cleaning companies to use the strongest, harshest ingredients in every product – so that it could thoroughly clean in even the toughest situations.

However, this level of chemicals is rarely necessary. We want to lead the change and offer an eco-friendly alternative, with all the same (if not more!) benefits.

What are we doing as a company to reduce our carbon footprint?

Reducing our carbon footprint is a core part of our mission. We incorporate circular economy principles and commit to reducing waste at every stage of our product’s lifecycle.

Production: Bide relies on a “cottage industry” production chain, where locals can become “home manufacturers” and distribute the product locally – greatly reducing transport costs. We are a proud British brand, focusing on improving the communities we live in. For now, we only operate and ship within the UK. We source raw materials sustainably and minimise use of chemicals.

Efficient transport network – Right from the start, our “home manufacturers” are key in reducing our transportation footprint. We ship products to local home-based manufacturers, always ensuring that the product is manufactured no more than 30 miles from the point of sale. No long-haul lorries, steam ships or flights – we are a local-focused business determined to support other small businesses as we grow.

Efficient ground transportation.  On the ground, we use efficient, community-based methods like public transport as far as possible. Our “home production” system means our products are created in your local area and delivered no more than 30 miles. This minises transport costs and removes the need for polluting longhaul lorries or planes.

Packaging – All our packaging is sourced in the UK and is fully recyclable. Even the stickers on our products are vinyl-free, improving our overall brand sustainability. 

Use: We create new tips and hints to minimise the amount of product you need to use – saving you money, as well as helping your carbon footprint.

Disposal: Our products are fully recyclable, with all materials going back into circulation.