Hidden plastic can be found in an everyday product that many people never question: tea bags. In this Friendly Turtle EcoBlog, we explore what tea bags are really made from, why some contain polypropylene, nylon or PET, and how to identify genuinely plastic-free alternatives with confidence. You'll learn how to check the packaging, recognise different tea bag materials, understand the difference between compostable, home-compostable and biodegradable claims, and discover why loose-leaf tea is often the most sustainable option. We also examine the latest research surrounding microplastics released during brewing, helping separate established facts from ongoing scientific discussion. Whether you prefer the convenience of tea bags or are thinking about switching to a reusable infuser, there are simple ways to reduce unnecessary plastic without compromising on flavour or convenience. From choosing certified plastic-free tea bags to brewing loose-leaf tea in a reusable infuser, this guide explains how one small everyday change can help reduce waste, support more sustainable habits and make every cup of tea a little kinder to the planet.
Share your articles with us and get published! Reach out at hello@friendlyturtle.com.
New Postage & Packaging Update - Premium Tracked Service Is Here!
Tracked Delivery Is Here
We fully understand that most of us lead busy lives- we have families to look after and bills to pay, which inevitably means we can't always be home when our little bundle of eco goodies are delivered to our door. We've had a number of requests from customers about offering a tracked delivery service, where you can track your orders door to door. You also want to be able to leave a 'delivery note' with us during checkout to go along with your order so that the postman can leave your package in a safe place, or with a neighbour of your choosing.
So we've made some changes to our delivery service. As of today, all orders received will now go out on a premium Tracked service. And the good news? It will come at NO EXTRA COST to you!
We know you'll love the tracking and 'safe place' options of our new service, because if you're anything like us, its really quite frustrating getting home after a long day at work to a find a 'Sorry We Missed You' postage note on your doorstep, requesting collection from your local post office or shop. Annoying right...
And you'll still receive your orders within 3-5 working days, with orders received before 2pm going out for dispatch the same day.
The Ethics That Literally Drive's The Business
We also wanted to work with a courier company that respects their workers and believes in fair pay - and this is often not the case within this industry! We actually know a couple of courier drivers who have worked for a number of different courier companies, and most of the time they are expected to deliver an unrealistic number of parcels within an 8 hour day, and will often end up having to work much longer than they are contracted to. Because of this, you often find courier drivers working stupidly long hours, earning illegally low wages because of loopholes the companies are allowed to wiggle through. And we do not want to support this kind of business.
We chose to work with Royal Mail previously because we believe they handle our orders with care, they respect fair pay, workers right and are generally a nice company to work for. And we will be sticking with them once again with their tracked delivery service as we continue to grow!
So, just as before, you'll still be paying the same costs for delivery (unless you spend over £50 - in which case it's free), only from now on, you can enjoy all the extra benefits of a premium, tracked delivery service. Yay!
Does the service cost us more? Of course it does, but with so many new and existing customers visiting us online and choosing to shop ethical and eco-conscious, we're able to absorb the extra costs and still able to do what we do. So consider this a big thank you for choosing to change the way you shop, and helping to make a difference - for our oceans, environment and climate. You are all truly the best people ever :-)
0 comments
Let customers speak for us
Blog posts
A long-distance moving day can feel overwhelming, but careful preparation makes the process far easier to manage. From confirming arrival times and protecting important documents to labelling boxes clearly and preparing a first-night kit, every small decision helps reduce delays, confusion and unnecessary stress. In this Friendly Turtle EcoBlog guide, we explain what to expect during pickup, loading, transit and delivery, while sharing practical long-distance moving tips for a more organised relocation. Keeping medication, identification, chargers, valuables and essential household items with you can prevent important belongings from disappearing into the moving truck. Photographing boxes, recording valuable items and checking paperwork carefully also creates a useful record in case anything is lost or damaged. Preparing clear walkways, arranging access and keeping children or pets away from busy areas allows the moving team to work more safely and efficiently. Thoughtful planning can also reduce waste by helping you avoid duplicate purchases, damaged belongings and unnecessary packing materials. With a reliable moving day checklist, clear communication and realistic expectations, your long-distance relocation can feel calmer, safer and far more manageable from the first packed box to the final delivery.
Zero-waste living is often presented as a simple matter of commitment, but many sustainable habits depend on time, planning, physical ability and reliable executive function. Refill shopping, preparing containers, cooking from scratch and remembering reusable items may feel manageable for some people while creating genuine barriers for disabled and neurodivergent individuals. In this Friendly Turtle EcoBlog discussion, we explore why accessible zero-waste living must account for different levels of energy, memory, mobility and sensory tolerance. Convenience products such as pre-cut food, plastic straws or disposable tableware are frequently criticised, yet they can make daily life safer and more manageable for people who need them. Inclusive sustainability should focus on reducing waste without turning convenience into a moral failure. Flexible systems, simpler routines and realistic alternatives can help more people participate in environmentally responsible habits. Progress might mean using one reusable bottle, following a weekly shopping routine or choosing low-effort options that prevent food waste. By designing sustainable products, refill schemes and community initiatives around real human needs, the environmental movement can become more practical, compassionate and effective for everyone.