So according to earth911, in 2019, “Americans toss 1.6 billion disposable pens annually. These plastic pens end up in landfills and as litter. Some of this plastic waste makes its way to our waterways, where it breaks down into microplastics, polluting our water and harming ocean life.”
That is a lot of pens. It is an amount that gets your attention, but still something difficult for individuals to address.
In truth I am no longer a fan of pens, preferring pencils made of wood grown from FSC sources. Still our industry produces a lot of pens, indeed I have many, many samples here at the office. To me this issue is something that only a systemic change can address.
To the point, if the industry is going to keep making pens, and people keep using pens, we need to start making pens in a more sustainable way.
And this has been happening. Pens with bamboo casings, pens made from biodegradable corn plastic, pens made from the recycled plastic of consumer goods like water bottles, the options keep coming.
So if you are buying pens for the office, or for giveaways, take a minute to check what you are buying, and maybe support these new styles. Because the more they sell, the stronger the argument for the manufactures to keep making them.
If you are interested in this product to promote your own business, or if you wish to see some samples, email info@proformagreen.com for information and pricing.
And as always, if you really want to do something sustainable, do not buy promotional products. All products are consumption at one level or another. So if you must buy, 1) Buy local (i.e. made in USA), 2) Buy useful, long lasting items, 3) Buy sustainable/recycled/recyclable products if possible.
Adventures in Green Marketing 
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