top of page
Writer's picturegodwinvintage

Sustainability

Updated: Jun 28, 2023

Upcycling

Embracing sustainability practices is crucial in today's world, and one of the most environmentally conscious ways to acquire new and distinctive possessions is by opting for upcycled and preloved items. In a society flooded with mass-produced, flat-pack furniture and homeware, our collection of upcycled and sustainable lighting and furniture at Godwin Vintage offers a refreshing opportunity to infuse individuality into our living spaces.


Upcycling, the close relative of recycling, breathes new life into unwanted items by transforming them into something fresh and captivating. Whether it's revitalising an old, worn-out desk with a contemporary twist or repurposing a vintage piece into a stunning lighting fixture, our upcycled creations showcase the art of reinvention. By choosing upcycled products, you not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also gain the added benefit of owning a truly one-of-a-kind piece that carries its own unique history and character.

Upcycled Console Table repainted in Farrow & Ball Railings No.31
Upcycled Console Table repainted in Farrow & Ball Railings No.31


 

Eco-friendly paints


In our commitment to sustainable practices, we prioritize the use of eco-friendly paints that promote both personal and planetary well-being. Unlike standard paints in the UK that are predominantly derived from petrochemicals, our selection of paints embraces a more sustainable approach. Water-based and free from petrochemicals, these eco paints have gained significant popularity as they reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals while benefiting the environment.


When it comes to upcycling our furniture, we exclusively use 100% water-based paints known for their rich, long-lasting colors. Renowned designer paint brands such as Farrow & Ball, Coat, Lick, and Little Greene are among our trusted choices. Opting for water-based paints offers several planet-friendly advantages. Not only are they easier to clean from our brushes and rollers without the need for harmful solvents, but they also contribute to reducing the environmental impact.


One notable advantage of these paints is their low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are chemicals that can vaporise at room temperature and contribute to air pollution and indoor air quality issues. By minimising the presence of VOCs, our eco-friendly paints help preserve air quality and mitigate their impact on both the planet and your home. VOCs, when exposed to sunlight, can react with nitrogen oxides, leading to the formation of pollution-causing ground-level ozone and photochemical smog. By choosing paints with lower VOC levels, we actively promote a healthier living environment and contribute to the overall sustainability of our surroundings.

A green leafy plant in a Farrow & Ball paint tin


 

Energy saving lighting


The evolution of lighting technology has revolutionised the way we illuminate our spaces. In contrast to the old incandescent light bulbs of the past, today's modern advancements allow us to enjoy the charm of vintage-style LED bulbs. With their classic aesthetic reminiscent of early light bulbs, these LED alternatives embody the perfect blend of nostalgia and sustainability.


Gone are the days when light bulbs were designed to last only a year or so. Thanks to the marvels of modern engineering, LED bulbs boast an impressive lifespan of up to 35,000 hours. This longevity ensures that you can enjoy your vintage-style lighting for years to come, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising waste.


One of the significant advantages of LED bulbs lies in their energy efficiency. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs consume significantly less energy, with some models boasting energy savings of up to 90%. This not only translates into lower electricity bills but also contributes to a more sustainable future. By using less energy, LED bulbs produce less heat, making them safer and more environmentally friendly. This reduction in energy consumption helps to conserve valuable resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, further mitigating the impact on our planet.


With LED bulbs, you can embrace the timeless allure of vintage-style lighting without compromising on sustainability or energy efficiency. By opting for these modern marvels, you not only elevate the ambiance of your space but also play a part in creating a greener and more eco-conscious world.

A chart comparing the difference between incandescent bulbs and LED bulbs
Comparison of Edison bulbs


 

Packaging materials


At Godwin Vintage, we understand the disappointment of receiving a parcel only to find the contents damaged, often due to insufficient packaging. That's why we take great care to ensure that our work is meticulously packaged before it's sent out to you. However, we believe that effective packaging doesn't have to rely on environmentally harmful materials like polystyrene.


In our commitment to sustainability, we prioritise the use of recyclable materials in our packaging process. Approximately 90% of the packaging materials we utilise consist of recyclable options such as cardboard and paper. These materials not only provide adequate protection for your items but also align with our goal of minimising waste and promoting a circular economy.


While we recognise that there are instances where the use of bubble wrap is necessary to protect delicate items, we make conscious efforts to minimise its usage. When we do utilise bubble wrap, we opt for eco-friendly alternatives or seek out environmentally friendly void fillers. By doing so, we reduce our reliance on single-use plastics and contribute to the overall reduction of plastic waste.


By prioritising recyclable materials and consciously minimising the use of traditional bubble wrap, we aim to strike a balance between ensuring the safe delivery of your items and minimizing our environmental impact. We are committed to continuously exploring sustainable packaging solutions and staying true to our mission of providing you with environmentally friendly and responsibly packaged goods.

A man holding a cardboard box with the words Godwin Vintage Fragile printed on it
Recyclable packaging

 

A tree for every order


At Godwin Vintage, we recognise the importance of taking responsibility for our environmental impact. That's why, starting in 2023, we have implemented a meaningful initiative to offset our carbon footprint. For every order placed with us, we are committed to planting a tree.


While planting a tree for each order may seem like a small step, we firmly believe that even the smallest actions can make a significant impact on the climate. Trees play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gases and combat climate change. By planting trees, we actively contribute to reforestation efforts and the restoration of natural ecosystems.


We are excited about this initiative as it allows us to give back to the environment and create a positive change. Through the collective impact of our customers' orders, we are planting trees that will not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to cleaner air, improved soil health, and the overall well-being of our planet.


By choosing Godwin Vintage, you not only support sustainable practices but also become part of our commitment to a greener future. Together, we can make a difference, one tree at a time.

Two people holding a tree sapling about to plant it

 
deorative

So there you have it, that was some of the ways we do our bit to help protect the environment. When we're making our upcycled furniture & lighting, we’re thinking about the future of your home as well as the future of the planet.


If you enjoyed this post then please feel free to share, it would be a huge help for our small business. If you'd like to know more about our sustainability practices then feel free to get in touch.


Johnny & Adam

Godwin Vintage

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page