Did you know that nail polish is considered hazardous waste by the EPA? We've got a couple tips for picking polish that is less dangerous for you and the environment.
Tip 1: Check the label. There are companies that make more eco-friendly nail polish, which usually means that the polish is free of the "toxic trio" of formaldehyde, toluene and pthalates. Check those labels and avoid those chemicals!
Tip 2: Dispose responsibly. Nail polish isn't the only household item that is considered hazardous waste, and dumping those items in the trash is terrible for the environment. There are collection sites where you can drop off those waste items to be recycled appropriately. This is one of those steps that is important and, admittedly, a pain. It is much easier to not use hazardous materials in the first place whenever possible.
Tip 3: Go all natural: Nix the nail polish. I don't want to demonize wearing nail polish (I'm wearing some right now), but if you want maximum environmental benefits, this is your only option until the nail polish powers-that-be invent completely non-toxic products.
Want to do more to promote sustainability worldwide? Help Heifer International care for the earth!
