Scientific American reports 93 percent of the plastic found in oceans comes from ten major rivers. The findings are from a November 2017 study in Environmental Science & Technology, which explains that “rivers collectively dump anywhere from 0.47 million to 2.75 million metric tons of plastic into the seas every year, depending on the data used in the models.” The 10 rivers carrying the majority of the trash are the:

Yangtze
Yellow
Hai
Pearl
Amur
Mekong
Indus
Ganges Delta
Niger
Nile

To combat the crisis in our oceans, Preserve launched the Preserve Ocean Plastic Initiative (POPi), which makes personal care products from plastic that was rescued from these coastlines. Twenty-five percent of sales from these products (like shaving razors and toothbrushes), are donated to organizations that help prevent plastic from funneling into the world’s oceans, research how plastic affects marine life, and develop better recycling systems.

The History of Preserve

Founder Eric Hudson grew up in Western Massachusetts and always loved spending time in nature. After beginning a career in finance and consulting, Hudson decided to shift gears and bring his corporate experience to the environmental sector. In his recycling research, he noticed more people were recycling than ever before, but not enough manufacturers were giving these materials new life. Preserve started its product line in 1996 by turning yogurt cups into toothbrushes. Since then, the brand has continued to innovate by creating sustainable products made from 100 percent recycled plastic. (Another example: Preserve also creates tableware out of take-out containers.)

Preserve Company Mission

Preserve has dedicated itself to lowering society’s environmental impact. By offering products for in and out of the home, it’s a go-to lifestyle brand that makes it easy to help make a difference. A toothbrush started it all, but Preserve has branched out into plant-based compostables and offers items like shaving razors, food storage, lunch bags, plates, and cutlery.

Benefits of Preserve

In addition to the Preserve Ocean Plastic Initiative (POPi), the company helps consumers divert plastic from landfills through its takeback program called Gimme 5, which collects #5 plastic at both in-person locations and through the mail, which it transforms into new Preserve products. You can also send back your used toothbrushes! As a Certified B Corporation, Preserve scored in the top 10 percent of more than 1,200 companies, which means this brand has been recognized for making a positive environmental impact and setting an industry standard.

Top Preserve Products

Feel good about your household purchases by shopping with Preserve.

Shave5 Women’s Razor

Reach for this gentle blade when you want smooth skin. The cartridge is made with five ceramic-coated blades and a lubricating strip that gives you a close shave without irritation.

Kids Toothbrush

To establish healthy oral habits at a young age, this toothbrush can help. The ergonomic handle is easy to hold, and it’s BPA-free to keep chemicals at bay.

Adult Toothbrush in Lightweight Pouch, Extra Soft

Dentists consulted on the design of this toothbrush, which comes with a curved handle for hard-to-reach back molars and bristles that massage your gums while you brush.

The Best Skin Care Tips From Thrive Market

From our favorite brands to an oral hygiene trick you might want to try, our blog has lots of resources for putting your best face forward.

Our Best-Selling Organic Skin Care Brands

These brands are popular on ThriveMarket.com for a reason. In addition to using organic ingredients, their products work just as well—if not better—as conventional counterparts.

Should You Try Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling has been around for centuries. If you’re curious about this ancient method of oral hygiene, head to the blog for all our tips and resources.

How to Moisturize Winter Skin

If your skin feels parched, we’ve rounded up a few natural ways to help you get rid of dry, itchy winter skin.

Preserve, Shave5 Razor

Other options

Preserve, Shave5 Replacement Blades