By
arts shop
Posted 1 month ago
Thu 30 Oct, 2025 12:10 AM
UAL arts shop stores are now stocking selected sustainable alternatives for your art supplies.
We know making sustainable choices isn't always easy, but now you can find alternatives close by that won't hinder the quality of your work. Let’s take a closer look at the sustainable products now available and why they’re worth considering for your next project.
Biotape & Paper Mailing Tape vs. Standard Plastic Tape
When it comes to tape for your projects or packaging, both Biotape and Paper Mailing Tape are excellent eco-friendly alternatives to the usual plastic tape.
Did you know? Traditional plastic tape is made from fossil-fuel-derived plastics and is not biodegradable or recyclable, often ending up in landfills. Biotape, on the other hand, is made from clear cellulose film sourced from renewable plant materials and features a water-based adhesive. This plant-derived tape is fully compostable under industrial conditions, making it a much more sustainable option.
Paper Mailing Tape is made from recycled paper and also uses a water-based adhesive. It’s biodegradable and recyclable, helping to reduce plastic waste and supporting sustainable packaging solutions.
Liquitex Biobased Acrylic vs. Traditional Acrylic Paint
If you're using acrylic paint in your projects, Liquitex Biobased Acrylic offers a fantastic sustainable alternative.
Did you know? Traditional acrylic paints are made using petroleum-based materials, which contribute to the depletion of fossil fuels and increase carbon emissions. In contrast, Liquitex Biobased Acrylic is made with 50% plant-derived ingredients such as corn, soy, sugarcane, and algae, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. This biobased formulation cuts down on the carbon footprint by around 40% compared to standard acrylic paints.
Whaleys Organic Cotton Calico vs. Conventional Calico
Calico may be your go-to fabric for toiling, sampling, and prototyping in your projects.
Did you know? Conventional cotton farming relies heavily on synthetic pesticides and fertilisers and requires a water-intensive process, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Organic cotton, on the other hand, is grown without these harmful chemicals, which not only reduces its environmental impact but also protects local ecosystems and workers in cotton-growing regions.
By making these simple swaps, you’re not only helping the environment but also supporting UAL’s commitment to sustainability. This is a unique opportunity to try out eco-friendly options without spending more, so be sure to take advantage before the offer ends!
Find your nearest arts shop to plan your next visit.
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