These compostable wedding rings gave us a fun ceremony idea…

 

Here at AMM, we’re big fans of eco friendly weddings. 

 

We’re always on the lookout for innovative ways to cut down on the environmental impact that comes with the average wedding – which by some estimates generates 400 to 600 pounds of trash and 63 tons of CO2. For a single wedding!  

 

So when we heard about a new type of compostable ring, we had to investigate... 

 

 

Product image via QALO x Pela

 

 

These compostable rings are being produced by two environmentally-focused companies, QALO and Pela (makers of silicone wedding rings and compostable phone cases), and are said to be the first of their kind.

 

The rings are currently offered in a few earthy colors, and are constructed from a “plant-based biopolymer material that’s said to produce “25% less CO2e and 67% less waste than conventional plastic material,” and are fully compostable, from their packaging to the rings themselves. (via News24) 

 

 

The most interesting thing about these rings, to us? 

 

They aren’t meant to last forever! According to a press release from QALO, couples can toss their ring into a backyard garden or ordinary composting bin when it starts to wear out, where it will enrich the surrounding soil. 

 

Considering how expensive most wedding bands are, the controversial nature of the diamond business, and the panic associated with finding the perfect ring in time for the wedding, an affordable, ethical and temporary ring might be the perfect alternative for some couples. 

 

It’s not clear how long these compostable rings last, but their temporary nature did give us a fun idea for a ceremony…

 

 

 

 

An eco-friendly vow renewal and tree planting ceremony! 

 

 

Since these down-to-earth rings aren’t meant to last forever, why not include them in an eco-friendly wedding ceremony now, and then reuse them as fertilizer in a vow renewal and tree planting ceremony later, when it’s time to switch them out for a new ring?

 

In one year, five years, or ten years – whenever the compostable ring starts to wear thin, couples can celebrate their anniversary with a tree planting ceremony and exchange new rings. 

 

• How to Add a Tree Planting Ceremony to Your Wedding

 

The original pair of rings can be placed in the ground next to the tree’s roots, as a symbol of a couple's renewed commitment to the marriage, nurturing it as it grows. 

 

Sounds pretty cool, right? 

 

Use this ceremony sample script:

 

• Simple Wedding Script with Tree Planting Unity Ceremony

 

For more tips on planning an eco friendly wedding ceremony or vow renewal:

 

• 7 Eco Friendly Wedding Ideas Inspired by Earth Day
• How to Add a Tree Planting Ceremony to Your Wedding
• Eco-Friendly Wedding Officiants -- How to Keep Weddings Green From Behind the Scenes
• Everything You Need to Know About a Vow Renewal Ceremony

 

Browse Articles on Eco Friendly Weddings

 

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• 5 Great Reasons to Ask a Friend to Officiate Your Wedding

 

• Couples: How to Work Best With Your Wedding Officiant
   

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