Environmental preservation is a compelling responsibility beholden to each global citizen. As carbon footprints incrementally mark the world, conscious decisions about daily items gain critical importance. Among these, the commonplace candle warrants discussion. Traditionally, candles are predominantly made of paraffin wax, a product of petroleum. However, an eco-friendly alternative, soy wax, promises environmental benefits and utility efficiency (Webb, 2020)[1]. It is therefore incumbent upon us all to consider the significant advantages of using soy wax candles.
The Environmental Argument
Derived from the soybean, a renewable resource, soy wax introduces an eco-friendly approach to enjoying candles. Contrastingly, paraffin is a non-renewable by-product of
crude oil, contributing to the carbon emissions propelling global warming (Webb, 2020)[1]. Moreover, soy wax provides a cleaner burn, releasing fewer toxins and pollutants into the environment compared to paraffin (Novak et al, 2017)[2].
Financial Efficiency
Soy wax candles burn 50% longer than their paraffin counterparts (McDilda, 2007)[3]. This is a significant advantage that offers prolonged use per candle, thus requiring fewer purchases. This efficiency presents a compelling financial case for consumers, stretching dollar value and facilitating savings over time.
Health Considerations
An often overlooked implication of candle usage is health impact. Paraffin candles produce soot containing harmful substances such as toluene and benzene, which according to EPA, are carcinogenic to humans (U.S Environmental Protection Agency, 2003)[4]. Soy candles, however, burn cleaner, producing significantly less soot and reducing exposure to these toxins (Novak et al, 2017)[2].
Aesthetic & Functional Value
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin, allowing for a larger liquid wax pool around the wick. This wider pool facilitates an even fragrance distribution, enhancing the candle’s aesthetic and sensory value (Earth’s Friends, n.d.)[5]. Furthermore, soy wax's ease of use and clean up alone could justify the switch. If you happen to spill some soy wax, it cleans up easily with simple soap and water (McDilda, 2007)[3].
Conclusion
The benefits of soy wax candles underscore not just an ethical need but also a logical decision to switch from traditional paraffin candles. Every individual candle choice contributes to environmental sustainability, economic efficiency, health preservation, and enhanced functional aesthetics. Let the information guide you: embrace soy wax candles, and illuminate a path towards a greener and healthier world.
References:
[1] Webb, M. (2020). Soy vs. Paraffin: The Great Candle Debate. Inside Climate News. Retrieved from https://insideclimatenews.org/news/01022020/soy-vs-paraffin-the-great-candle-debate
[2] Novak, N., Bechert, F., & Blanc, P. D. (2017). Paraffin: health implications of indoor air pollution. Environmental Health Perspectives, 125(12). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5751788/
[3] McDilda, D. (2007). 150 Ways to Live Green. Adams Media.
[4] U.S Environmental Protection Agency. (2003). Toxic Substances: Toluene. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/documents/toluene.pdf
[5] Earth’s Friends. (n.d.). Soy Candles Vs Paraffin Candles: Which Are Smarter To Buy? Retrieved from https://www.earthsfriends.com/soy-candles-vs-paraffin-candles
