Why can’t I just recycle these in my curbside bin?
Reducing waste and minimizing our carbon footprint is important to us. We’re looking at ways we can incorporate PCR (post-consumer recycled) and compostable materials into our New Product Development. All of our current packaging is made from recyclable materials, but it’s not always that easy: Some packaging does not always survive the sorting process at recycling centers- whether due to size, format, color, or the fact that we often need to use mixed materials in order to ensure the efficacy of a product. In general, anything smaller than 3” in diameter, or less than six ounces, is too small to be recycled and will likely be screened out or caught in the disposal stream at the recycling facility. However, every city has its own rules when it comes to what is recyclable. We encourage you to check your local government website to see the restrictions for your community.
What happens to the packaging once it gets to TerraCycle?
TerraCycle sorts the packaging and works with vendors to recycle the materials to make more permanent items like watering cans, flooring tiles, or even park benches and outdoor furniture!
Doesn’t all this extra shipping increase my carbon footprint?
Great question. As a society we need to be mindful of our carbon footprint from all angles. What we do know is that plastic pollutes every step of the way from the time it’s produced, until it ends up in the oceans or landfills. Case studies show that being able to reuse plastic that has already been produced (even if it means extra shipping) is the better approach to minimizing your footprint.
Do I need to pay for shipping?
Nope! TerraCycle has you covered. Please visit their website in order to create an account and print a pre-paid shipping label.
What type of packaging should I use to send the products to TerraCycle?
We recommend saving your Paula’s Choice shipping boxes and use these to send back your empty packaging. You can also use any box you have available.
Where can I find the shipping label?
You can print your label after you create your profile at TerraCycle.
Can I schedule a pickup?
With over 40k locations nationwide, it is easy to find a UPS Drop Off location. However, you can schedule a pick-up online with UPS. Please keep in mind that you may incur an additional charge. We also recommended saving your empties in a box and making returns monthly or quarterly, depending on how much product you go through.
Is this the same as sending in a return or exchange?
No. If you have a return or exchange please go to this Help Topic. The TerraCycle program is for empty packaging to ensure they don’t end up in landfill.
Can I send the seals and stickers?
It’s alright if they are still affixed to the component, but loose stickers should be tossed.
Should I send my cardboard unit cartons to TerraCycle?
Yes. However, cardboard unit cartons can often be recycled through your local recycling program. Check with your municipality to see what is accepted.
Which Paula’s Choice products are eligible for TerraCycle?
Currently all our product packaging is accepted, except for our Reusable Cotton Rounds.
Can I return empty packaging from non-Paula’s Choice products?
This program is just for Paula’s Choice products.
Can I mail a bottle/tube with product still in it?
The package needs to be empty, however if there is residual product around the sides, that is perfectly fine.
Are there TerraCycle drop off locations?
There are no physical drop-off locations for Paula’s Choice products.
Does my shipment have to weigh a certain amount before I can send it in?
No, it doesn’t. But if you have the space, we do recommend saving your empties and sending them in every few months – this way we’re being mindful of emissions from shipping as well!
Do I need to clean the waste before I send it in?
No, you do not need to clean the waste before sending it in to TerraCycle. However, please remove as much of the remaining product as possible before shipping. And please remember, UPS will not accept dripping packages, so make sure your waste is dry prior to shipping.
How many TerraCycle points will I be awarded?
Each piece of waste your location sends in will earn you about 2.2 TerraCycle points. Paula's Choice Skincare packaging will be counted based on an average unit weight of 0.022 lb.