Inspired by the important work done by Climate Force, I began my tattooing eco-initiative in 2019.

Barney Swan, CEO and founder of Climate Force came to me for a tattoo and set into motion a transformation of my ideas on climate and personal responsibility. The issue of climate change and environmental destruction can seem enormous and honestly paralysing. I didn’t want to think about it and I didn’t know where or how I could make any meaningful difference. Well, Barney suggested I start by planting one tree per tattoo. It’s costs less than a pound to plant a tree in the Amazon. By beginning small, we can all make a start in changing the way we approach our businesses and lives. I’m not the only tattoo artist concerned with making our industry more sustainable. What if our entire industry became carbon neutral? Plastic free? And if our industry could do it, couldn’t many others? It all starts with one small action.

By donating to charities One Tree Planted and Cool Earth, I have offset the carbon emissions from every tattoo done since August 2019. Currently 60 trees per month are being planted in Australia and the Peruvian Amazon. More locally, I also make donations to The Woodland Trust to help conserve our historic greenery here in the UK

The expanding availability of single use alternatives has also meant that most of the disposable products used in the application of my tattoos are now plastic free and/or biodegradable. These products include, compostable cling film, 100% natural latex gloves, wheatgrass razors, biodegradable polymer ink caps and vegan inks. For a full list of eco-conscious products feel free to email clarawelshtattoos@gmail.com

For more information on the great work done by organisations mentioned, visit:

Eco Initiaive