Shipping Materials and Practices

Our Commitment to Sustainable Shipping

At Alder and Alouette, caring for the Earth is at the heart of what we do. We’re committed to using sustainable materials and methods whenever possible, so each package you receive reflects our respect for the natural world.

How We Ship Sustainably

🌿 Thoughtful Packaging
We use recyclable or compostable, paper-based packaging for nearly all orders. When needed, we protect products with compostable glassine bags, plant-based cellophane, or recyclable kraft and tissue paper tied with hemp or jute twine or taped with paper tapes.

🌿 Minimal Waste
We choose the smallest packaging size possible to keep shipments efficient and eco-friendly.

🌿 Reusing Materials
We happily reuse boxes and packing materials sent to us by vendors. You might notice a box with another company’s branding – it’s simply our way of giving boxes a second life.

🌿 Plastic Practices
While we rarely purchase plastic packaging ourselves, we do reuse clean plastic fill, including air pockets, plastic bags or bubble wrap, if it arrives with merchandise. Some vendors use corn-based cellophane or cornstarch packing peanuts, which are compostable, while others still use traditional plastic wraps. We reuse anything that has a useful value. Please note: We do purchase plastic bags when needed to meet the postal requirement for containing and mailing liquids and gels (e.g. watercolor paint, glue, flute and string oils).

🌿 Digital Slips
We email packing slips and order confirmations to reduce paper use, sending printed slips only when necessary.

Why Reused Boxes Matter

We believe in the beauty of “twice-loved” boxes. Reusing them helps reduce waste and saves valuable resources. If you garden, these boxes make excellent weed barriers under mulch for creating pollinator-friendly beds.

Choosing Greener Shipping

Whenever possible, we encourage you to choose USPS ground advantage. Since USPS has established routes, your packages arrive with a smaller environmental footprint compared to additional carrier pickups. 

What You Can Do

If your product arrives with plastic packaging from a vendor, we encourage you to reach out to them directly. Many companies are willing to explore better alternatives when customers ask for change. Please consider if it can be reused. 

Thank You

Thank you for supporting our small business and for joining us in creating a kinder, more sustainable world – one mindful package at a time.

With gratitude,
The Alder & Alouette Family