June 3, 2019 11.09 am This story is over 63 months old

Lincoln beauty business to become plastic-free after crowdfunder

It can now replace its final item of plastic
KiteNest Co-Founders Chris Staples and Markus Coulson.

A local company has hit its £7,000 target to help it become what it believes to be Lincoln’s first independent plastic-free natural beauty business.

As previously reported, KiteNest, which was set up in 2015, makes 100% natural, individually crafted cosmetics in Lincolnshire.

A crowdfunder was launched to help the business achieve a plastic-free future and improve its zero waste-offering. The campaign was a success with £7,051 raised by 126 supporters in 35 days, so the business has secured funds to replace its final item of plastic.

The products are handmade by Chris Staples and Markus Coulson in Lincoln using fine natural ingredients without the addition of any parabens or palm oil. The items ranging from hair wax and salt scrubs to lip balms and body butter, are not tested on animals.

Plastic-free organic dry shampoo. Photo: KiteNest

KiteNest recently discovered a plant-based alternative to the plastic lids of their Organic Dry Shampoo. It will now be able to work on doing just that.

All supporters of the campaign will be able to vote for their favourite zero-waste packaging ranging from FSc cardboard to aluminium tins or lids made from plants.

The business also previously said plans are also underway to create zero-waste deodorant bars.

Co-Founder Markus Coulson said: “To become completely zero-waste makes me very proud. We started KiteNest to show people that natural beauty products didn’t require them to compromise on quality and now we can show them that they can go natural and plastic-free too.”

Fellow Co-Founder Chris Staples added: “We hope more businesses follow suit as there clearly is a demand.”

The duo are not the only ones passionate about a plastic-free environment.

Johann Bridges is planning to open a zero waste/plastic free shop in Lincoln.

Johann Bridges was appealing for donations after terms were agreed for her new Lincoln Eco Pantry. The campaign successfully raised £1,293 in 56 days.

Heads of terms were agreed for a unit on the High Street formerly occupied by London Camera Exchange. It is now in the hands of solicitors before Johann is able to proceed with her venture.