Eco Friendly Pens: A Sustainable Writing Solution

9 Reusable & Eco-Friendly Pens—Write Without Writing OFF Our Planet

Pens are a staple in any workspace, but they can also be a significant contributor to plastic waste. Luckily, there are now eco-friendly alternatives that can help reduce the environmental impact of writing. Here are nine reusable and eco-friendly pens that you can use to write without writing off our planet:

• Pilot Frixion Clicker Retractable Erasable Gel Pens
• Zebra Pen F-301 Retractable Ballpoint Pens
• Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
• Pentel EnerGel Pens
• Pilot B2P Retractable Ballpoint Pens
• Staedtler Triplus Fineliner Pens
• Pilot Varsity Disposable Fountain Pens
• Uni-ball Signo Gel Pens
• Tombow Airpress Ballpoint Pens

These pens come in various colors, styles, and sizes, and they are made from sustainable materials such as recycled plastic, bamboo, and cornstarch. By choosing these eco-friendly options, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help preserve the planet for future generations.

Sustainable Pens We’d Love to Write With

When it comes to writing utensils, there are plenty of eco-friendly options available. For those who prefer refillable pens, eBay offers a variety of vintage or secondhand fountain pens. Onyx & Green also offers a range of eco-friendly pens and pencils made from natural and recycled materials. For those who prefer pencils, Sprout offers a unique option that can be planted after use.

To make it easier for consumers to find sustainable options, here are some quick links for reusable and eco-friendly pens. Additionally, refillable and reusable pens are a great way to reduce waste and save money in the long run.

Check out these refillable and reusable pens for a sustainable writing experience:

QUICK LINKS FOR REUSABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY PENS

REFILLABLE & REUSABLE PENS

• Pilot B2P Bottle to Pen Retractable Ballpoint Pen
• Zebra F-301 Retractable Ballpoint Pen
• Pentel EnerGel Deluxe RTX Retractable Gel Pen
• Uni-ball Signo Gel Pen
• Pilot FriXion Clicker Retractable Erasable Gel Pens
• Pilot Precise V5 Stick Rolling Ball Pens
• BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen

These pens are not only eco-friendly but also provide a high-quality writing experience. By choosing refillable and reusable pens, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment while still enjoying the benefits of a reliable writing utensil.

1. LAMY SAFARI OR LAMY 2000

Lamy offers two fountain pens that are both eco-friendly and sustainable: the Lamy Safari and the Lamy 2000.

The Lamy Safari has a colored plastic body and a black-coated steel nib. It is a fine-point pen that can be refilled with either cartridges or a glass jar. The pen also features an ink window that makes it easy to see when it needs refilling.

On the other hand, the Lamy 2000 is a more durable option. It is made from brushed stainless steel and black fiberglass, and features a 14K gold, platinum-coated extra-fine nib. While it is more expensive than the Safari, it is a long-lasting investment that is on display at the Museum of Modern Art.

Both pens are made in Germany with excellent workmanship and have spare parts that can be obtained from specialized retail shops to ensure they last forever. For difficult repairs, Lamy also has a Service Center to get your pen back into writing condition.

Overall, the Lamy Safari is a great option for those looking for a more affordable, yet still sustainable, fountain pen. However, for those willing to make a long-term investment, the Lamy 2000 is a durable and stylish option that is sure to impress. Both pens are available on Amazon.

2. PILOT VANISHING POINT COLLECTION

PILOT’s Vanishing Point Collection offers a range of refillable and retractable fountain pens that are both stylish and environmentally friendly. The pens feature rhodium-plated 18K gold and a smooth writing nib that is available in medium, broad, and fine sizes. The collection also includes an elegant gift box that includes an ink cartridge and converter for easy refilling.

For those on a budget, PILOT also offers “disposable” fountain pens with refillable cartridges, which can be used over and over again. The collection is perfect for those who are looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic pens.

PILOT is a well-known name in the world of pens, and they are committed to sustainability. 80% of their pens are now refillable, and their Japanese and European manufacturing facilities are ISO 14001 certified to have a minimal environmental impact.

The Vanishing Point Collection is available for purchase on Amazon. In addition to the collection, PILOT also offers a range of other refillable fountain pens, ink bottles, ink cartridges, and the popular Pilot B2P pen. For those new to fountain pens, the PILOT Kakuno is a great starter pen that is both affordable and easy to use.

3. eBay Secondhand Fountain Pens

If you’re in the market for an eco-friendly fountain pen, eBay is a great place to start. Not only can you find some of the best eco-friendly fountain pens, but buying secondhand is also an affordable way to get your hands on a luxury pen like Mont Blanc. Refine your search to “eco-friendly refillable pens” and see what eBay has to offer.

Eco-Friendly Ball Point Pens

In addition to fountain pens, eBay also offers a variety of eco-friendly ballpoint pens. These pens are made from sustainable materials and are refillable, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Some popular eco-friendly ballpoint pen brands available on eBay include Bic, Pilot, and Paper Mate.

eBay’s Commitment to Sustainability

eBay is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainability. The company tracks and shares its environmental impact and is working towards using 100% renewable energy. Additionally, eBay supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals by increasing the number of women employed at eBay, supporting small businesses, and partnering with nonprofit organizations.

By purchasing eco-friendly fountain pens and ballpoint pens on eBay, you can support sustainability efforts and reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying the luxury of a high-quality writing instrument.

4. AGood Company

A Good Company is a brand that understands the importance of having a good pen. They offer eco-friendly pens made from locally sourced natural meadow grass combined with BPA-free plastics. These pens are refillable with non-toxic blue or black ink, making them a sustainable choice for those who care about the environment.

The pens are CE-certified and produced in a factory powered by renewable energy, including biogas and waste heat. A Good Company ships their products in recycled and recyclable packaging with no superfluous material. Additionally, the company partners with WeForest to plant trees in Zambia for every purchase made.

A Good Company’s eco-friendly pens are a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers who want to make a difference. Other brands that offer eco-friendly pens include Conscience Concepts, the Eco Pen Club, Earth Pen, Simply Genius, and Simply Genius Eco-Friendly Pens. By choosing eco-friendly pens, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

5. ONYX & GREEN

ECO FRIENDLY DIP PENS

Onyx & Green offers a range of eco-friendly dip pens made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and wood. These materials are not only renewable but also biodegradable, making them an excellent choice for those who want to reduce their impact on the environment.

One of their most popular products is the Zenzoi Bamboo Fountain Pen, which is made from bamboo and features a fine nib for precise writing. This pen is not only stylish but also durable and long-lasting, making it a perfect addition to any writing collection.

In addition to the bamboo fountain pen, Onyx & Green also offers a variety of dip pens made from bamboo and other sustainable materials. These pens are perfect for calligraphy and other forms of artistic writing, and are a great way to reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying the art of writing.

Overall, Onyx & Green’s eco-friendly dip pens are a great choice for anyone who wants to reduce their impact on the environment while still enjoying the art of writing. With their sustainable materials and durable construction, these pens are sure to last for years to come.

6. Bonnie’s Bit & Things

Bonnie’s Bit & Things is a small Etsy-based shop that offers eco-friendly and sustainable pens. The shop owner, Bonnie, has a selection of bamboo and feather dip pens that are all handmade by her husband, who has been honing his craft for 25 years.

One of the standout products from Bonnie’s Bit & Things is the Bamboo Dip Pen, which is a truly zero-waste pen made with just bamboo. These pens can be composted in an indoor compost bin if they ever break, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize sustainability.

In addition to being eco-friendly, the Bamboo Dip Pen is also versatile. As it is a dip pen, users can simply dip the tip in ink and write away, much like Shakespeare did in his time. These pens can also be cut in different sized nibs, from fine to broad, making them suitable for a variety of writing styles.

All shipping from Bonnie’s Bit & Things is carbon neutral, and Etsy, the platform on which the shop is based, is powered entirely by renewable energy. Supporting small shops like Bonnie’s Bit & Things is easy on Etsy, making it a great choice for those looking to make sustainable purchases.

Overall, Bonnie’s Bit & Things offers an excellent selection of eco-friendly and sustainable pens that are both functional and environmentally conscious.

7. THE CONSTANT FORAGER

ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO PENS

The Constant Forager offers eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pens that can help reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. The shop’s owner, Roxanne, is committed to creating non-toxic and sustainable products that are locally sourced whenever possible.

One of the shop’s popular products is the natural bamboo dip pen set, which comes with foraged walnut ink. The large cut tip of the pen allows for a variety of stroke sizes, making it perfect for calligraphy enthusiasts. The bamboo material is a renewable resource that is biodegradable and compostable.

Other eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pens include reusable pens made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles or paper. These pens can be refilled with ink cartridges, reducing the need for disposable pens. Some pens also feature replaceable tips, allowing them to last longer and reduce waste.

In addition to pens, there are also eco-friendly pencil options available. Pencils made from recycled paper or sustainable wood are a great alternative to traditional pencils. They can be sharpened and used repeatedly, reducing the need for constantly buying new pencils.

By choosing eco-friendly alternatives to pens and pencils, individuals can make a small but impactful change in their daily lives that can contribute to a more sustainable future.

8. PARWANA

PARWANA is a Canadian-based company that specializes in eco-friendly stationery products, including recycled newspaper pencils. The company’s recycled newspaper pencils are made without harming any trees, and they come in 10 different colors with standard graphite (HB2). These pencils are not only unique in design but also functional for everyday use.

PARWANA’s recycled newspaper pencils come in a handmade sleeve made from recycled cardstock and plant remnants, with specs of silk fiber thread. Customers can also opt to receive their pencils without packaging. As for shipping, PARWANA uses ECO clear compostable bags to ensure the sustainability of their products.

The company’s goal is to restore the livelihood of local artisans in Pakistan who are involved in paper-making, bookbinding, and block printing. They provide financial, technical, and design support to help these artisans develop contemporary artifacts and find new markets locally.

Apart from recycled newspaper pencils, PARWANA also specializes in recycled deckled edge newspaper stationery and eco-friendly notebooks, all hand-made in small batches. These products can make unique and sustainable gifts for those who appreciate eco-friendly products.

PARWANA’s recycled newspaper pencils are available for purchase on Etsy, along with their other eco-friendly stationery products.

9. Sprout Pencil

Sprout Pencil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional writing utensils. These pencils are made from sustainably harvested wood and a non-toxic clay and graphite core, which comes in traditional or colored varieties. What sets Sprout Pencil apart is its patented non-GMO seed capsule that replaces the eraser at the end of the pencil. This seed capsule can be planted in soil when the pencil becomes too short, allowing the user to grow a variety of plants.

Sprout Pencil’s commitment to sustainability is evident in all aspects of their operations, as demonstrated by their membership to both SEDEX and the UN Global Compact corporate citizenship initiative. They have received many awards and are consistently trying to make their pencils even greener.

In addition to being an eco-friendly writing utensil, Sprout Pencil is also safe and harmless for children, as it is EN-71 certified. The pencils have a pleasant natural wood texture and smooth, mostly non-smudging graphite performance when writing.

Sprout Pencil is available on Amazon and their Code of Conduct, COP report, and proof of certifications can be found on their website. By choosing Sprout Pencil, consumers can make a positive impact on the environment while still enjoying the benefits of a high-quality writing instrument.

Overall, Sprout Pencil is a great option for anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact and incorporate sustainability into their daily routine.

THE PROBLEM WITH TRADITIONAL PENS

Traditional pens have become a major contributor to plastic waste in landfills. In the United States alone, over 1.6 billion disposable pens are discarded every year, which not only wastes fossil fuels but also poses a risk of releasing toxic chemicals as they break down, including microplastics. Although pens are theoretically recyclable, they often cannot be recycled due to the ink being considered a contaminant. Recycling facilities do not have the resources or time to disassemble the various parts of a pen to transform them into something new. To reduce plastic waste and minimize the risk of toxic chemicals, people should opt for eco-friendly pens.

HOW WE FOUND THE MOST ECO-FRIENDLY PENS

Materials

When it comes to eco-friendly pens, the most important thing is that they are zero or low waste. This means they are either compostable or refillable at the end of their ink well. Recycled plastic, recycled cardboard, and recycled paper are popular options for eco-friendly pens. Some brands are also experimenting with more unique materials, such as locally-sourced meadow grass, corn-based plastic, wheat straw, bamboo, and recycled newspaper.

Reusability

Refillable pens are the most eco-friendly option. For reusable fountain pens, secondhand pens are the best choice. If buying new, look for pens that come with a converter or can be refilled with a bottle of ink. Piston fountain pens are also a good option, as they can be easily refilled.

Ink

Soy-based and non-toxic ink is the most eco-friendly option for pens. This ensures that the ink does not contain harmful chemicals that could harm the environment or the user.

Supply Chain and Labor Practices

While this is not yet a focus in the world of office supplies, some brands are making efforts to disclose their manufacturing practices. Look for brands that use sustainable factory practices, renewable energy, and eco-friendly packaging and shipping materials.

Final Thoughts on Eco-Friendly Pens

Despite the rise in digital communication, pens are still a necessary tool for many people. However, there are sustainable alternatives for our scribbling. It is important to use up any pens you have lying around before making the switch to eco-friendly options. Consider upcycling old pens into something new, such as a picture frame border or coffee stirrer. TerraCycle zero waste boxes are also available for pens, pencils, and markers to be sustainably recycled.

By choosing eco-friendly pens, individuals can make a small but impactful change in their daily lives. It is important to be conscious of the materials used in our everyday items and make sustainable choices whenever possible.