Is Wax Bad For The Environment? A Comprehensive Analysis

Written by

Inemesit Ukpanah

Last updated

26 April 2024

Wax, a seemingly harmless substance, might hide a not-so-secret environmental impact. Wax is everywhere, from the cosy candles that set the mood to the protective coatings on our favourite gadgets.

The impact on the environment varies depending on its source and production process. The global market is valued at over £4.6 billion, with an annual growth rate of around 4%. 

But the question remains: is wax bad for the environment? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t as simple as a yes or no.

This article aims to unravel the complex relationship between wax and the environment, presenting a detailed analysis of the statistics highlighting its impact. So, join us as we shed light on the environmental implications while exploring solutions for a greener future.

What do we mean by Wax Exactly?

Wax, a versatile substance, plays a crucial role in various industries, from candle making to cosmetics, industrial uses and food packaging.

They are hydrophobic compounds, primarily consisting of long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons and functional groups. These substances are known for their solid state at room temperature, melting into a liquid form upon heating.

Fundamental physical properties include a congealing point, the temperature at which it solidifies, and a melting point at which it liquefies.

Waxes can be natural, derived from plants and animals, or synthetic, produced from petroleum or manufactured through chemical processes.

Common types encountered with each type have unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications:

• Animal-based: Beeswax
• Plant-based: Soy wax, Carnauba wax, candelilla wax
• Mineral-based and Synthetic: Paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax, and various petroleum-derived waxes

Understanding wax’s composition, sources, and applications provides a foundation for exploring its environmental impacts and sustainability.

Types of Wax and Their Origins

Waxes have a wide range of industrial applications. They are used in manufacturing candles, cosmetics, packaging, and the food industry. Paraffin wax, for instance, is prevalent in candle making due to its clean burn and cost-effectiveness.

Here is a detailed breakdown of each type of wax:

1. Natural Waxes: Natural waxes like beeswax and carnauba wax are celebrated for their biodegradability and support of natural ecosystems.

• Beeswax: Produced by honeybees, it supports biodiversity and pollination, making it a sustainable choice.
• Carnauba Wax: Extracted from the leaves of the carnauba palm, known for its glossy finish and used in various polishes.
• Candelilla Wax: Sourced from the leaves of the Candelilla shrub, primarily found in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, used in cosmetics and polishes as a beeswax substitute.
• Tallow: Derived from animal fat such as beef and pig fat, used in traditional applications like soaps and candles.

2. Plant-Based Waxes: Soy wax, while renewable, has a nuanced environmental footprint due to emissions from soy cultivation and processing.

• Soy Wax: Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, it is a popular candle choice due to its renewable origin and biodegradability.
• Coconut Wax: Gaining popularity for its sustainable properties, it is derived from coconut oil.
• Additional Plant Waxes: Increasingly popular waxes from sunflower seeds, sugar cane bagasse, and rice bran oil are favoured for their sustainability.

3. Petroleum and Synthetic Waxes: Paraffin wax, being petroleum-derived, is less sustainable due to its non-renewable origins and potential for releasing harmful chemicals during use. 

• Paraffin Wax: A common derived from petroleum byproducts, used in a wide range of products from candles to crayons but criticised for its environmental impact.
• Microcrystalline Waxes are darker and tackier than paraffin and are utilised in products like rubber and cosmetics.
• Synthetic Waxes are manufactured artificially in applications requiring specific melting points and viscosity adjustments.

This detailed breakdown of different types and their origins highlights the diverse applications and environmental impacts associated with each. 

Wax in Everyday Life

Wax finds its way into numerous everyday products and applications:

• Candles: An estimated 1 billion pounds of wax are used annually in the U.S. alone for candle production.
• Packaging: Wax coatings are essential for food packaging, offering protection and extending shelf life.
• Cosmetics: Waxes are key ingredients in products like lip balms and lotions, providing texture and moisture retention

The Environmental Impact of Wax 

The environmental impact spans from CO2 emissions and non-renewable resource depletion to deforestation and biodiversity loss, highlighting the need for more sustainable production and usage practices worldwide. Produces 85-90% of global wax. It’s linked to CO2 emissions and uses non-renewable resources.

The global market, valued as of 2023 at £5.1 billion, is primarily dominated by petroleum-based waxes. However, the shift towards sustainability influences the industry, with a growing demand for natural waxes like soy despite their environmental controversies. 

Quick Stats on Wax Environmental Impact

What is so bad about Wax for the environment

The environmental footprint involves resource consumption, chemical exposure, and waste generation.

• Non-Biodegradability: Paraffin wax, a common type, is not biodegradable due to its petroleum base.
• Carbon Footprint: The industry’s environmental impact is substantial, with millions of tons of CO2 emissions from paraffin wax production alone. It is energy-intensive, contributing to carbon emissions and climate change.
• Deforestation: Each use of the products, from candles to packaging, carries an environmental cost. Soy wax, an alternative to paraffin, is linked to deforestation for soy cultivation, impacting biodiversity and carbon release.
• Pesticide Use: Soybean farming often involves pesticides and herbicides, leading to environmental pollution.

What is the impact of wax?

• Global Market: The paraffin wax market size was valued at approximately £6.9 billion in 2023, indicating significant production and usage. 
• Candle Industry: It is heavily used in the candle industry, with countries like Poland and Germany being significant manufacturers. However, the environmental cost of raw materials and competition from eco-friendly waxes like soy and beeswax are notable.
• Packaging and Cosmetics: It is also used in packaging and cosmetics, contributing to the industry’s environmental footprint through resource consumption and waste generation.
• Global Emissions: The market was valued at £6.3 billion in 2022, with a projected growth rate of 4.3% annually until 2030, indicating a substantial environmental footprint.
• Daily Impact: Burning a single paraffin wax candle for 2 hours releases around 10 grams of soot, contributing to indoor air pollution.
• Per Usage Impact: A study found that burning palm stearin candles (similar to soy wax) produces a CO2 generation rate of 5.28 mg/s, equivalent to 41.2 grams of CO2 over a 130-minute burn time.

Impact Table

Top Wax-Producing Countries

The global market is a significant segment of the industrial world. The global market size is estimated to reach GBP 10.5 billion by 2031, with Asia-Pacific dominating the global market share. Rapid industrialisation in emerging economies like China and India is anticipated to create growth opportunities for the worldwide market in these regions. 

Globally, the demand, especially for packaging and candles, is rising. This increase in demand means more CO2 emissions. The candle industry is booming in the UK alone, with a market value exceeding £90 million annually. This growth translates to increased CO2 emissions from wax production.

Beeswax Production:

• India leads global beeswax production with 24.6 million kg, accounting for 37.8% of the total in 2022. Characterised by its vibrant domestic demand, fueled by the candle-making, packaging, and cosmetics industries
• Ethiopia and Argentina follow, producing 5.8 million kg and 5.0 million kg, respectively, contributing significantly to the global output.
• Other notable producers include Kenya, Angola, Tanzania, Brazil, and the United States, with production figures ranging from 1.9 million kg in Tanzania to 1.6 million kilograms in the US.

Paraffin Wax Production:

• China is the largest exporter of paraffin wax, known for its variety in melting points and oil contents.
• The United States and Germany are recognised for their high-quality, speciality paraffin waxes that adhere to strict regulatory standards, especially in the cosmetics and food industries.
• Malaysia and India are key players in Asia, with India focusing increasingly on sustainable production methods.
• South Korea excels in producing high-quality paraffin wax for electronic and industrial applications.
• Brazil innovates with bio-based paraffin waxes derived from sugarcane, presenting a renewable alternative.

European and Other Producers:

• Spain is a significant paraffin supplier in southern Europe and North Africa.
• Through companies like Eni, Italy produces fully refined paraffin waxes, catering to Europe’s demand.
• Romania and Australia contribute to the global market with diverse paraffin wax products suitable for various industrial needs.
• Dubai-based Infinity Galaxy supplies fully and semi-refined paraffin wax in granules, slabs, and flakes, meeting diverse industry requirements.
• Iran: Emerging as a competitive source focusing on balancing cost, quality, and environmental sustainability.

Regional Consumption

Below is how different regions contribute to usage and their environmental footprint.

Is Wax Toxic?

The debate over whether candles are toxic often centres around the type used and the quality.

In small amounts, ingesting wax, like a bite from a crayon, usually passes harmlessly through the digestive system. Medical professionals highlight the more significant concern lies in consuming large quantities, which can lead to intestinal blockage. This risk is particularly relevant for young children exploring wax objects by putting them in their mouths.

The bigger question regarding its toxicity hinges on its source. Paraffin wax, a petroleum-derived option commonly used in candles, raises environmental and health concerns. During burning, paraffin wax releases potentially harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene. These can irritate the respiratory system, especially those with asthma or allergies.

Thankfully, safer alternatives are readily available. They are natural and burn cleaner, releasing fewer harmful emissions.

Is Wax Biodegradable?

Biodegradability largely depends on its source. Waxes come in two main types: natural and synthetic. Each type has a different impact on the environment. 

For instance, Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is not biodegradable. It breaks down very slowly and can release harmful chemicals into the environment. On the other hand, natural waxes like beeswax and soy wax are biodegradable, meaning they can decompose naturally with the help of microorganisms. 

Moreover, the time frame for biodegradation for plant-based or natural waxes takes as little as two months, making them an eco-friendly option for products like candles and wax melts. While petroleum-based is used in various commercial applications, it is not readily biodegradable and can persist in the environment for a prolonged period.

Compostability of Waxes:

• Compostable Waxes: Due to their organic origins, natural waxes can be composted under conditions similar to their biodegradation process. This includes waxes like soy and beeswax, which decompose without leaving harmful residues.
• Non-Compostable Waxes: Synthetic waxes do not break down easily in compost settings, contributing to landfill waste and potential environmental hazards.

Is Wax Sustainable?

Like most things, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no.  Sustainability depends on several factors, including the source material, production methods, and disposal practices.

While traditional waxes like paraffin pose sustainability challenges, alternatives such as soy wax, beeswax, and vegetable-based waxes offer more eco-friendly options.

The industry is at a crossroads, with a global push towards sustainable and low-carbon-intensive waxes. Demand for eco-friendly waxes is rising in sectors like PVC, paints, and adhesives. Consumers increasingly prefer products with a lower carbon footprint and recyclable properties. 

So, what’s the takeaway?  While there’s no perfect answer,  we can make more sustainable choices.  Look for wax products made from responsibly sourced or other vegetable-based alternatives. 

Can Wax Be Recycled?

Each type has its recycling capabilities and methods. For instance, soy and beeswax are more eco-friendly and more accessible to recycle compared to paraffin wax, which is petroleum-based.

Recycling involves melting the material, filtering out impurities, and then reforming it into new products. This process can significantly reduce waste and conserve resources. 

In some countries, innovative methods and technologies are being developed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of recycling. For example, in the UK, companies are exploring ways to recycle wax from cheese packaging, a previously challenging material to process.

However, not all products are suitable for recycling due to contamination with other materials.

One of the main challenges in recycling is the separation of wax from contaminants. For example, candles, one of the most common wax items, often contain wicks, dyes, and fragrances that must be removed before recycling. Additionally, the infrastructure for wax recycling is not as developed as for other materials, such as paper or plastic, making it less accessible.

Wax Recycling Facts

Environmental Impact Compared to Everyday Things

When discussing CO2 emissions, we often think of cars, factories, and deforestation. But what about the everyday items we use? 

We love candles, lip balm, cheese wax, and other wax forms. Does wax stack up against everyday items regarding environmental impact?

Wax, particularly paraffin wax, can emit a significant amount of CO2. Globally, the industry contributes to greenhouse gas emissions through production and burning. 

This data helps assess the environmental impact relative to other everyday items.

The data reveals a fascinating insight. For instance, the CO2 emissions from using paraffin wax are comparable to that of producing a cotton T-shirt. However, they pale compared to a plastic bag’s carbon footprint or a smartphone’s lifecycle emissions.

What Are Alternatives to Wax

Exploring alternatives to traditional wax is crucial for environmental sustainability and personal health. Let’s explore options that challenge the status quo.

Alternatives to Traditional Wax

1. Soy Wax: Derived from soybeans, it is renewable, biodegradable, and burns cleanly without releasing harmful toxins.
2. Beeswax: Produced by honeybees, it is natural, burns brighter and longer than paraffin, and purifies the air by emitting negative ions.
3. Coconut Wax: Extracted from coconut oil, it is sustainable and burns cleanly, offering a great scent throw.
4. Palm Wax offers a clean burn and unique crystalline candle patterns when responsibly sourced.
5. Vegetable Waxes: These are a broad category, including rapeseed and sunflower waxes, known for their sustainability and low environmental impact.
6. Candelilla Wax: Sourced from the Candelilla shrub, it’s vegan and offers a hard finish for DIY cosmetics.
7. Bayberry Wax: This rare, natural wax carries a pleasant fragrance and is ideal for scented candles.

Is It Better Than Alternatives?

Comparing traditional wax to its alternatives, it’s clear that other options offer significant benefits. Moreover, these alternatives support sustainable agriculture and reduce fossil fuel dependency.

The Comparison Chart

The chart showcases the trade-offs between different alternatives. Soy wax and coconut oil emerge as cost-effective and environmentally friendly options. Beeswax and candelilla wax, while pricier, offer unique benefits for air quality and product finish.

Statistics, Facts and Figures About Wax

Here’s a comprehensive look at the industry, highlighting key statistics, facts, and figures that shed light on its global impact, usage, and production.

1. The global industry emits over 1.1 million tonnes of CO2 annually.
2. The global market is booming, with an expected reach of £8.9 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2020–2025.
3. Asia-Pacific leads the market with over 34.2% revenue share thanks to rapid industrialisation and rising living standards, especially in China and India. 
4. North America and Europe are followed by demand in the packaging, cosmetics, and candle-making industries.
5. The top importers of paraffin wax are the United States (£240.3 million), Mexico (£222.2 million), and Germany (£196.3 million).
6. An estimated 3 billion pounds of wax are used annually in North America alone. 
7. The hair removal wax market is also on the rise, expected to reach £9.1 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 7.6% from 2021 to 2028. 
8. Germany, the UK, and France are major contributors to candle demand, significantly influencing the region’s market.
9. Europe focuses on sustainability and innovation in production processes, particularly in Germany and Spain. 
10. The global production of industrial waxes contributes to approximately 5.2 million tons of CO2 emissions annually.
11. The cosmetics and personal care industry is a significant consumer of waxes, with increasing demand for natural and organic products.
12. China, in particular, is a major producer and exporter of paraffin wax, with exports valued at £393 million.
13. Paraffin wax is the most commonly used candle wax globally, followed by beeswax, soy wax, and palm wax.
14. Candle sales generate over £2 billion globally each year.
15. Candles account for the second-largest use of waxes in North America after packaging and package coatings.
16. The packaging industry uses large amounts of paraffin wax.
17. The expansion of soy cultivation for soy wax production is linked to 500 sq km of deforestation yearly in Brazil alone, with significant carbon emissions associated with this deforestation.

The Future of Wax

The industry is evolving, shifting towards more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives.

The demand for natural and organic waxes is increasing, driven by consumer awareness and the clean beauty movement. Innovations in recycling and developing synthetic waxes also present opportunities for reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.

To mitigate the environmental impact of production, which is notably energy-intensive and contributes to carbon emissions, it is crucial to transition towards using renewable energy sources. This shift reduces reliance on fossil fuels and aligns with global sustainability goals by decreasing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing.

In conclusion, wax is crucial in various global industries, with significant production and consumption across continents. 

Wax – FAQs