Business of the Month - Green Oil UK Ltd

The words ‘oil' and ‘green' don't usually go together but an award winning Kent-based company, called Green Oil UK Ltd, supplies bike oil that is environmentally friendly, biodegradable and palm oil free. We were intrigued so caught up with their founder Simon Nash to find out more...

So how did Green Oil UK Ltd start?
Green Oil UK Ltd was started because I felt guilty about riding my mountain bike across rivers and possibly polluting the water with traditional bike oils as the chain would inevitably go into the water. I searched for a green lubricant, and there were none. Many of the lubes on the market even said 'dangerous for the environment' on the back. Their packaging was not recyclable or re-fillable, and most of it was imported. Many even contained Teflon!

So whilst at university I experimented with different formulas for a greener oil and found one that worked. From its humble bedroom beginnings, Green Oil UK Ltd expanded into an 'Eco-cabin' in my parents' garden, before expanding and developing further.

How have things changed since those early days?
Our products started with 100% recycled paper labels. Now they are plastic, but it's the same plastic as the bottle, so the whole product can be efficiently recycled. The bottles are also refillable - you get 10p off if you re-fill, just like cola in the good old days (and in most modern European countries actually!). All chain lube ends up in the environment eventually, so it's really important to use Green Oil on your bike. It stops your chain from rusting too. I have also developed a cleaner and grease with the same principles - biodegradable, and Teflon free.

Where do Green Oil source the necessary ingredients of their oil?
The ingredients are a trade secret at the moment! Our ingredients are, however, sustainably sourced and biodegradable, and none of our products contains palm oil. A handful of people know the ingredients - we told the Ecologist and they made Green Oil their 'Pick of the Month'. (For more reviews of Green Oil click here.) All the ingredients are natural, and the majority are plant based. It is made in Kent so has a very small carbon footprint. None of the ingredients or the finished product are tested on animals and it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

How long does it take to biodegrade?
Less than six months - it depends on the weather. A warm damp summer would make it break down in the soil much more quickly than in a cold dry winter. Importantly, it is not harmful before it biodegrades. This is contrary to the Teflon-packed petrochemical bike products out there. The range is fine if you get it on your skin too.

If it is biodegradable, does that affect its shelf life?
For our products to biodegrade, there needs to be warmth, moisture and bacteria - as you get in soil. In a bottle, the whole range should be fine and last indefinitely.

How often should it be applied to the chain?
If you ride off-road through mud, after washing the bike apply it after every ride. If you are just going to the shops or commuting, apply it every 3-4 weeks depending on use. It's good to get rid of any old oil or muck from the chain before applying Green Oil, but not essential.

If I smear Green Oil on my clothing, will I be able to wash it off?
This is the one bad thing about Green Oil - not only does it stay on your bike well, but on your clothes too! To get Green Oil out of your clothing we recommend the Clean Chain degreaser - rub it into the stain, then put the clothing into the washing machine with a normal washing load. The blue colour in the Clean Chain may be a problem on white clothing, however. Trouser clips are a great protector - we recommend the Anklelite, or the recycled inner tube trouser clip from Ecoutlet.

Could Green Oil be used for machines other than bikes ( lawn mowers, pallet trucks, forklift trucks, etc.)?
Yes, though not inside the motor like car oil. Our lubricant and grease have a range of applications.

Is Green Oil available in bike shops in the UK?
Green Oil is stocked in around 140 bike shops in the UK. If you persuade your local shop to stock it, we will give you a free bottle - just ask, they often get in contact this way.

Can I order Green Oil via your website?
Yes, our site is www.Green-Oil.net. We currently offer free UK postage, and sell a range of fair trade energy bars and solar powered bike lights too!

Note: We love Green Oil so much, Brigit is now stocking it on the bus!