Burt’s Bees

The Beauty of a Circular Economy

We think a lot about all the materials we use—and the ones we don’t. We try to avoid new materials and unnecessary packaging, and make sure all of our packages are recyclable or reusable.

We put an average of 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in our plastics and 71% into our paper. Our Lip Balm packaging is 50% PCR and we’re moving towards 100% PCR, including the addition of bio-resin upcycled from potato processing waste. We’re always trying to push the limits of our packaging to include more PCR and be easily recyclable without compromising the safety or quality of the products you love.

We avoid over-packaging, limit mixed materials and use innovative recycled materials. Our facial towelettes are made from repurposed cotton tees, and their package has a sticker rather than a plastic closure. Our lip balms aren’t shrink-wrapped; instead, they have a slightly longer label that prevents tampering. Choices like these help us limit our footprint and cut out unnecessary plastics.

We choose high-integrity materials that are more readily recyclable. That includes aluminum, steel, paper, glass, and plastics like PETE, HDPE and PP, with as much PCR as possible. Once our packaging has served its initial purpose, it can be recycled either curbside or through our partnership with Terracycle to help us close the loop.