In 1970, Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin started Earth Day to bring environmental issues to the forefront of national discussion. On the first Earth Day, 20 million Americans participated in demonstrations across the country. In response, congress created the Environmental Protection Agency.
It wasn’t until 1991 that soy wax, an environmentally friendly candle wax, was discovered by Michael Richards, a candle maker. As he experimented with different types of vegetable products, he eventually discovered a relatively cheap way to create wax from soybean oil. His invention paved the way for a new kind of candle, which burned cleaner than paraffin and was less costly to produce than many alternatives.
Soy Candles Are an Eco-Friendly Alternative to Regular Candles
Soy candles are the first innovation in candles in a century. As people are more concerned with the environment and their health, consumers are demanding eco-friendly solutions. Burning soy wax is a much better option than traditional paraffin for many reasons.
Soy Wax is From Soybeans, not Petroleum
Derived from the soybean, soy wax is a hydrogenated vegetable oil that turns to a solid at room temperature. Soy wax is 100% natural. Paraffin wax, by contrast, is made from petroleum oil and produces harmful by-products when burned or melted.
Soy Wax is Environmentally Friendly
Since soy wax is made from soybeans, it is a renewable source, making it environmentally friendly. Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, which is not a renewable resource.
Soy Wax Burns Clean
Also, soy wax candles burn clean. They don’t release any soot or chemicals into the air when burning. It’s common to hear people complain of headaches from burning candles. The scent is normally blamed, but in reality the wax is the culprit. Paraffin wax candles release all sorts of chemicals that cause headaches and migraines, among other health issues. Soy wax is non-toxic making it better for the environment and your health!
Paraffin Wax May Contain Carcinogens
In 2009, a study by South Carolina State University found that burning paraffin wax candles emits benzene. The American Cancer Society classifies benzene as a carcinogen, a substance that promotes the growth of cancer. The same 2009 study found that soy wax did not give off benzene.
At Clever Cow Candle Co, we pride ourselves on offering clean burning candles! We are proud to offer products that are environmentally friendly and support Earth Day. Our candles are clean not only because we use 100% soy wax, but also because of our 100% cotton wicks and clean fragrances. To learn more about why these attributes are all important click here.
