Recycling and Sustainability
Blue Lotus Chai Company is committed to continuing to serve our customers convenient solutions like instant chai in a variety of product sizes while constantly reducing our environmental impact. This begins with a commitment to recyclability for all of our packaging.
RECYCLING GUIDE
Chai Tins
Our tins are made of two parts – bodies, which are made of 100% recyclable steel, and lids, which are made of #5 BPA-free plastic (polypropylene) and steel. These are both recyclable but may need to be separated depending on recycling programs available in your community.
Bulk Bags
We are currently phasing out our omnidegradable bulk bags, which look and feel like brown paper on the outside. These are not recyclable. Omnidegradable bags will break down in the environment if exposed to the right climate, but won’t compost easily. For this reason and based on the advice of local sustainability partner BRING (https://bringrecycling.org/ourorg) we have committed to moving away from omnidegradable packaging toward more easily recyclable materials.
Our new bags are currently #4 BPA-free plastic (low density polyethylene) widely accepted in major grocery store drop-off programs nationwide. NexTrex (https://nextrex.com/view/findadropoff) is a free tool to help find a store drop-off location near you. Drop bins are usually located near store entrances.
Travel Pouches
Our travel pouches are not recyclable at this time because they contain a metallic foil inner layer which serves as an oxygen barrier. Our chai actually stays freshest in our travel pouches! However, we are testing new options and have committed to finding a replacement using recyclable pouch materials by the end of 2027.
Innovator Award
BRING Recycling Rethink Certified
Thank you to Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson and BRING Recycling for your recognition of Blue Lotus Chai's efforts in sustainability with the BRING Rethink Business Innovator Award.
Sourcing thoughtfully: We prioritize local vendors whenever possible and work with partners who are committed to renewable energy, environmental certifications, and responsible practices.
Low-waste operations: From bulk purchasing and refill systems to reusable kitchenware and plant-based cleaning products, we focus on reducing waste across our facility.
Energy efficiency investments: Through our partnership with BRING Recycling and the Rethink Business Program, we’ve implemented energy-efficient lighting in our production space—one of many incremental changes that add up over time.