There are a few brands that deserve a little attention for bringing good products to our doorsteps, either by being cruelty-free, vegan, plastic free or all in one!
One brand is Stasher SA- they import these cool silicon bags to replace plastic ziplock sandwich bags. They are food safe and can be reused over and over again. They come in a cool variety of colours and the website gives you ways to use the bags - which is great for when people ask you why aren't you using the 'normal' bags any more!!
The second brand is The Body Shop - I truly love their products that are sourced via fair trade, sustainable methods and they have moved away from any animal tested products. They are also creating a vegan range which is awesome!! The innovation of products is admirable as well as the fact that they store has been around since the 70's! I adore their raspberry range- fruity, tarty and so delectable!!The Satsuma range was one of the first things I tried from them and I still love! The sweet almond has been a new addition that I have discovered and am enjoying as a shower gel. Although their items are made from plastic- it is recyclable- most of them- and the tubs make for great items for carry stuff when travelling.
Lush South Africa has also been around for a while and has taken the packaging off the table! Their creation of items in glass jars is great and they even have a range of Naked items which have no packaging. I love it! It means you can enjoy your bath/shower in peace knowing that there is no packaging going to a landfill/ recycling plant based on your decision to purchase that item. The products are made from all natural items, lots of vegan options as well which is fantastic as well as bringing attention to so many cool causes! For example , shark fin soap- highlighting the issues around sharks being fished legally and illegally for their fins. I adore the lip scrubby- bubblegum and it has lasted for a while now- great smell, and a product that works is a perfect combination. Lush SA also has a cool policy that if you return 5 empty full sizes item containers to a store- you get a container fresh mask which they make in store ! A cool recycling project that has been going on for a while!
I would say to anyone looking to switch products to something that has a lower impact on the planet, that these 3 brands are investments to make into your future. It is a way to start being aware of where you spend you money , and that it is spent supporting good brands doing good for the planet!