TerraCycle's practices raise concerns about greenwashing. While recycling is often perceived as an eco-friendly solution with minimal consequences, this assumption doesn't always hold true. TerraCycle specializes in recycling hard-to-recycle materials, but their Zero Waste Boxes utilize SFI-certified cardboard. It’s important to note that the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certification does not enforce its already lenient standards aimed at promoting human rights and forest conservation (more information here: https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/sfi-report-new-and-unimproved.pdf 

Furthermore, TerraCycle has confirmed that they use virgin plastic for their liners, raising the question: why rely on new materials for recycling? When we prioritize recycling plastic at the expense of cutting down trees for cardboard and producing additional virgin plastic, we exacerbate deforestation and pollution. This ongoing cycle can intensify the climate crisis and lead to worsening public health issues and significant damage to ecosystems and communities that rely on them.

We urge TerraCycle to adopt better practices by using either FSC 100% certified cardboard or recycled materials, along with a recycled plastic liner. It’s time to prioritize sustainability over convenience.