The term “sustainability” or “eco-friendly” is more than just a fad. It is a way of life.
As we progress, the economy rises exponentially. Furthermore, human beings clamor for convenience as the surging needs rise. Hence, we are provided with the fastest solution: single-use packaging, which contributes to the “linear economy.”
As gathered by Clean The World, a World Health Organisation arm, around two million plastic bottles and partially used bars of soap are used and apparently thrown away worldwide. In reality, 90% of plastic in the world doesn’t get recycled. They all make their way to landfills, as well as the ocean.Â
So, what can we do?
Thankfully, with the help of “green-minded” people out there, we are now aware of the “circular economy”. We are being educated about the importance of mindfulness or conscientious packaging. Surprisingly, every day, a new building is being built and showcased. We also come across numerous innovative brands.
Take condo-homes, for instance. Developments are hand over fist. We can only hope and pray that they apply green principles in building them. Pine Suites Tagaytay is a mid-rise condominium surrounded by pine trees and vast land of greenery.
Such is this homegrown brand that was recently launched in Tagaytay called Refill ‘N Beyond.
Our group photo with media friends and our partner store, Pine Suites Tagaytay. Everyone was given the opportunity to refill their preferred products for free! They all brought their own bottles, which made my green heart happier!
I personally love and use body wash olive scent, fabric conditioner and liquid detergent for our clothes, and dishwashing liquid. The liquid detergent doesn’t produce as much suds compared to other leading brands. So, I add more to satisfy my feelings.
What Is Refill ‘N Beyond?
Refill ‘N Beyond is a package-free store that promotes awareness and sustainable living by offering alternative solutions on how we can preserve the earth. In addition, it’s a collaborative-driven company that helps communities and individuals start their own refill stations.
One of their bestsellers is this lavender-scented liquid detergent. I use it to clean the bathroom, too, as it helps improve my mood. Lavender is packed with natural benefits. It helps combat fungus growth, for example, and can relieve asthma attacks.
RNB offers refilling options for basic household and body necessities, such as liquid detergent, dishwashing liquid, fabric conditioner, and body soap.
How Did It All Begin?
It was 2009 when we found out our children are asthmatic.
We would save up for a weekend getaway to Tagaytay or Batangas just to get a dose of fresh air. Now, we actually live in Tagaytay. We discovered beautiful places here. Tagaytay is more than just a bulalo spot.
When the weather changes drastically, our children get hospitalized for asthma despite our rigorous efforts. One night, we met with fellow moms and dads in our community and talked about natural ways to combat sickness. Back then, eco-friendly stores and natural products have always been elusive and expensive. Some parents, including us, cannot afford it. So, we decided to do some research as to how we can provide a solution notwithstanding environmental practices. The rest, as they say, is history.
How Does Refill ‘N Beyond Sell Its Products?
To lessen carbon footprint and extend social awareness, we sell our products through our website and Facebook page. We also partner with brands with a green heart, like O2 Space in Makati. 02 Space generously offered their space for our customers in Manila. To save up on shipping fees, you may order online and pick it up in Makati on a specific day and time. We will soon be at concept stores in the South, too!
Lastly, we partner with hotels, Airbnb unit owners like Urban Suites Tagaytay, and restaurants. We also help hotels come up with their own refill stations for added revenue.
Photo by Azrael Coladilla of Merryland Blog.
Most of our partner hotels love our lemongrass body wash, olive body wash, and green apple hand wash. An all-purpose cleaning material will be introduced soon, as well.
Refill ‘N Beyond Partnership Programs
We have four refill partnership programs :
- Refill At Home – an opportunity for an individual to set up their own refill station at home.
- Refill At School – a great way for educators and learning institutions to introduce the importance of green principles. We partner with schools and give lectures on how refilling can help alleviate sachet slavery.
- Refill At Community – our way of helping the local government improve its waste reduction programs. Through this partnership, we can also develop livelihood programs and educate its stakeholders to become more mindful.
- Refill At Work – a partnership between us and our partner’s Human Resources or Operations Department Head. They usually contact us to put up a pop-up setup for their employees.
Barangay San Jose in Tagaytay is our “Refill At Community” partner.
Canva Philippines is an example of our “Refill At Work” program. They invited us to their fifth anniversary.
Succinctly, collaborating with Refill ‘N Beyond helps decrease the plastic rate, encourages responsible tourism, and most importantly, develops you as a person or brand with a green heart.
Are Refill Stations the Answer to Lowering Plastic Waste?
This was the same question raised by Tom Szaky. Tom is the CEO and founder of TerraCycle, a company in Budapest that makes consumer products from waste. In his article on PackagingDigest.com, he reiterated that with most retail companies supplying single-use packaging, refill stations could be a great alternative solution. In fact, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed his intention to ban single-use plastic for the betterment of our environment. Therefore, refill stations could help alleviate our worsening problems with waste and plastic.
Ultimately, as mindful consumers, we must be armed with this information and find a way to combat the linear economy. With Refill ‘N Beyond, we are hoping to start a small chain of change with our family and friends, then our consumers, and our partner brands. We believe that as we become a web-centric nation, sustainable living is more achievable.
As Stan Lee said, “with great power comes great responsibility.” It is our sole responsibility to take care of our environment – for us, for our children, and for the next generations to come. Slowly but surely, we can make this world a better place one refill store at a time.
So, are you ready to paint the town green?
Refill ‘N Beyond
earthruleshere@gmail.com
Website: https:// www.refillandbeyond.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/refillnbeyond
Instagram: @refillnbeyond
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