What is Ocean Bound Plastic?

16 September 2024

And how is it Changing the Production of Promotional Merchandise?

The world's oceans have long been a symbol of vast beauty and mystery, but unfortunately, they are also becoming repositories for an increasing amount of plastic waste. It's estimated that eight million tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans each year. Amongst this waste, "ocean-bound plastic" has emerged as a key concern. But what exactly is ocean-bound plastic, and how is it revolutionizing the production of promotional products? Let’s dive in.

What is Ocean-Bound Plastic?

Ocean-bound plastic refers to discarded plastic waste that is not yet in the ocean but is at high risk of ending up there. It’s typically found within 50 kilometres (about 30 miles) of coastlines and in regions where there is poor waste management infrastructure. This plastic could easily be washed into rivers, waterways, and ultimately, the ocean, where it contributes to marine pollution and the destruction of marine ecosystems.

The term was coined to identify the critical need to intercept plastic before it reaches the oceans. Much of this plastic comes from developing countries where waste collection systems are insufficient, and vast amounts of plastic debris is left to accumulate in the environment.

How Does Ocean-Bound Plastic Affect the Environment?

Ocean-bound plastic poses numerous environmental threats:

1. Harm to Marine Life: Fish, turtles, and seabirds often mistake plastic for food, ingesting it and suffering fatal consequences.

2. Pollution: As plastics degrade in the ocean, they release toxic chemicals and micro-plastics that can contaminate the water and enter the food chain.

3. Economic Impact: Tourism, fishing, and shipping industries all suffer the economic consequences of plastic pollution in the oceans.

A significant problem is the sheer length of time that the plastics will remain in the ocean causing problems for decades

While the environmental risks are clear, this is where the industry can take action, and ocean-bound plastic is now becoming a valuable resource for creating sustainable products, including promotional items and corporate gifts.

How Ocean-Bound Plastic is Transforming the Promotional Merchandise Industry

The global promotional products industry has long been associated with mass production and disposable items, often contributing to landfill waste and environmental harm. But a growing demand for eco-friendly promotional products is changing that. One of the most exciting innovations in this space is the use of ocean-bound plastic to produce swag that is not only functional but also environmentally responsible.

Here’s how ocean-bound plastic is making waves in the production of promotional products:

1. Closing the Loop with Recycled Materials

Companies are now able to recover ocean-bound plastic, recycle it, and use it as raw material to produce new products. From reusable water bottles and tote bags to pens and tech accessories, these recycled items reduce the demand for virgin plastics and help divert plastic waste from reaching the oceans.

When your company distributes branded products made from ocean-bound plastic, you not only promote your brand but also contribute to a global initiative aimed at cleaning up our oceans. It sends a powerful message to customers and employees about your company’s values and commitment to sustainability.

2. A New Standard for Eco-Friendly Marketing

For businesses looking to make a lasting impact, ocean-bound plastic swag can set you apart from competitors. Traditional promotional items, such as single-use plastic pens or non-recyclable tech gadgets, are being replaced with eco-conscious alternatives. Swag that uses ocean-bound plastic gives businesses a chance to align their brand with sustainability, a value that resonates strongly with today’s consumers.

In fact, a 2020 study found that 72% of consumers prefer to purchase products from companies that align with their values, and environmental responsibility is becoming a top priority for many. By investing in merchandise made from ocean-bound plastic, you meet this growing demand and improve your brand’s reputation.

3. Reducing Your Carbon Footprint

Every piece of ocean-bound plastic that is recycled reduces the carbon emissions required to produce virgin plastic. By choosing promotional products made from recycled materials, businesses can lower their carbon footprint and support the circular economy, where products are made to be reused and recycled, minimizing waste and energy consumption.

The shift towards using ocean-bound plastic also encourages responsible waste management practices, particularly in coastal areas where improper disposal often leads to plastic entering waterways.

4. A Story to Tell

Promotional items are more than just functional—they tell a story. When your company hands out a branded notebook or reusable water bottle made from ocean-bound plastic, you have the opportunity to share a meaningful narrative with your customers. These products become talking points, allowing your brand to be associated with efforts to protect the environment.

Customers are not just receiving an item—they are taking part in a larger movement to keep plastics out of the ocean. This connection adds value to the promotional item, making it something that recipients are more likely to hold onto and use, extending your brand's visibility.

Ocean-Bound Plastic Products on the Rise

Many companies are already embracing this trend. For example:

Bottles – the most famous product on the market (now heavily in retail and with its own TV advert) is the Ocean Bottle - winner of a number of design awards.

Pens, notebooks, and keychains made from recycled ocean-bound plastic are becoming popular giveaways at conferences and trade shows.

Eco-friendly tech accessories, like phone stands and charging cables, are now being manufactured using ocean-bound plastics. Our favourite is the Ocean Bound Octopus!

Reusable shopping bags made from ocean-bound plastic are an excellent alternative to single-use plastic bags, further promoting the reduction of plastic waste.

These products demonstrate how sustainability and style can go hand-in-hand, offering environmentally-conscious alternatives to traditional swag.

The Future of Promotional Products

As more consumers, employees, and stakeholders demand sustainable practices from the businesses they engage with, the use of ocean-bound plastic in promotional products is paving the way for a greener, more responsible future. Businesses can no longer afford to overlook their environmental impact, and promotional products provide an excellent opportunity to make a tangible difference.

By incorporating ocean-bound plastic into the production of swag, businesses can participate in the global effort to reduce plastic pollution while also enhancing their brand image. At Pavilion Earth, we believe that small changes can lead to big impacts, and we’re proud to offer a range of eco-friendly promotional items that help protect our oceans.

Ready to make a positive change? Explore our selection of ocean-bound plastic products and corporate gifts, and let’s create swag that makes waves for all the right reasons.

Pavilion Earth - Leading the way in eco-conscious promotional products. Discover more about our sustainable solutions at pavilionearth.co.uk

https://www.pavilionearth.co.uk

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Raster versus Vector - advice for the decoration of branded promotional merchandise

by David Platt • 5 February 2025

Understanding Vector Files vs Raster Files for Eco Promotional Products When it comes to branding on eco promotional products, understanding the different file types is crucial. Whether you’re creating logos for reusable water bottles or designing training manuals, the choice between vector and raster files significantly impacts the quality, scalability, and versatility of your designs. In this blog, we’ll explore the characteristics of these two file types, their applications, and why choosing the right format matters for both print and digital media. --- What Are Vector Files? Vector files are a digital image format based on mathematical formulas that define shapes, lines, and colours. Unlike raster files, which are made up of pixels, vector files use points and paths, allowing them to remain resolution-independent and infinitely scalable. Common vector file formats include **.SVG** (Scalable Vector Graphics), **.AI** (Adobe Illustrator), and **.EPS** (Encapsulated PostScript). Advantages of Vector Files 1. Scalability: Vector files can be scaled up or down without any loss in quality. Whether you’re designing a logo for a promotional pen or a large conference banner, vector graphics remain crisp and clear. This scalability makes them ideal for **printing on eco promotional products**, signage, and manuals. 2. Editability: Vector files are highly editable. Designers can easily adjust individual elements like shapes, colours, and sizes without compromising image quality. This flexibility is particularly useful for **custom branding**, where logos or designs need modifications for various products. 3. Small File Sizes: Vector files are typically smaller than raster files because they store mathematical data rather than individual pixels. This makes them faster to load, ideal for web use, and easier to share across platforms. Applications of Vector Files Vector files are perfect for projects that require sharp, scalable designs. Their primary uses include: - **Eco promotional products**: Logos for reusable bottles, tote bags, and stationery. - **Print materials**: Brochures, business cards, and training manuals. - **Signage**: Pop-up banners and large-scale graphics. - **Web graphics**: Icons, infographics, and logos for websites. --- What Are Raster Files? Raster files, also called bitmap images, consist of individual pixels that make up the image. These files are resolution-dependent, meaning their quality is determined by the **pixels per inch (PPI)** or **dots per inch (DPI)**. Common raster file formats include **JPEG**, **PNG**, and **TIFF**. Advantages of Raster Files 1. Photorealistic Detail: Raster files excel at capturing detailed and complex images, such as photographs or digital paintings. This makes them ideal for **photographic designs** used in digital or print materials. 2. Image Effects: Raster files support various effects, such as shading, filters, and blurring. These capabilities allow designers to enhance photos or create artistic visuals for **social media posts, eBooks**, or website banners. Applications of Raster Files Raster files are better suited for detailed, photorealistic designs. Their primary uses include: - **eBooks and digital materials**: Low-resolution images for screens. - **Web graphics**: Social media posts and website banners. - **Photography**: Printing high-resolution photos for promotional use. - **Complex artwork**: Digital illustrations or detailed graphics. --- Vector vs Raster Files: Key Differences 1. Scalability - **Vector Files:** Infinitely scalable without loss of quality, ideal for logos and large-format printing. - **Raster Files:** Lose quality and become pixelated when enlarged. 2. Editability - **Vector Files:** Easy to edit individual elements (shapes, colours, etc.), making them versatile for product branding. - **Raster Files:** Difficult to edit without compromising quality. 3. Resolution Dependence - **Vector Files:** Resolution-independent; sharp at any size. - **Raster Files:** Resolution-dependent; quality depends on the original PPI or DPI. 4. File Size - **Vector Files:** Smaller file sizes, suitable for web use and quick loading. - **Raster Files:** Larger file sizes due to pixel data. --- Why File Choice Matters for Eco Promotional Products When creating branded materials for eco promotional products, the right file type ensures your designs are visually appealing and consistent across all platforms. Here’s why: - **For Print:** Vector files are essential. Logos and graphics need to be sharp and scalable for different product sizes, from mugs to banners. Vector files also work best for high-resolution branding on training manuals or reusable promotional items. - **For Digital:** Raster files are better suited for low-resolution displays, such as eBooks, social media posts, and websites. However, remember that even digital logos and icons can benefit from vector files for faster loading and a crisper appearance. --- Partnering with Pavilion Earth for Your Eco Promotional Needs At Pavilion Earth, we understand the importance of getting your branding right, whether it’s for a biodegradable tote bag, a stainless steel water bottle, or digital training materials. Choosing the right file format is just one step in ensuring your promotional products reflect your values and your brand’s quality. Our team can guide you through the process of selecting and preparing the correct file types for your eco promotional products. Need help deciding between vector and raster files? Let us assist you in optimising your designs for maximum impact. Contact Pavilion Earth today to discuss your promotional product needs and branding goals. Together, we’ll make sure your materials stand out while staying eco-conscious.