How to Reduce Packaging Waste with Sustainable Solutions?

When it comes to environmentally friendly packaging, in addition to the quality of the packaging, the quantity of materials used is also very important. To protect the planet, sustainable packaging should be used as well as saving on packaging material. This applies to all areas where products, whether food or other commodities, must be transported, hygienically sealed, or stored. Learn here about what you can do in your business and the positive impact this has on people and nature, and the company’s internal finances.

Sustainable packaging with the 3R principle – that’s how it works!

Does the slogan “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” mean anything to you? These three words stand for reuse, reduce and recycle. Consumer behavior based on the three Rs is more sustainable and easier to implement. The products are reused instead of being disposed of and replaced directly. In addition, consumption is minimized, which is good for the environment and your pocket. Last but not least, the products used are recycled, and the recycled items are purchased. But, how to transfer the motto of the private households to the whole company? We will give you examples of how this can work and what to keep in mind. Be inspired! 

Step #1: Reduce

Whether bakery, catering service or fashion shipping – the first step towards a more sustainable packaging method is to be more conscious of packaging materials and save them wherever possible. It goes without saying that parcels cannot be sent without cartons and that takeaway dishes cannot be transported without packaging. Nevertheless, on closer inspection, a bit of packaging material can often be reduced at many corners and ends, which in turn is quite a lot in total. For both the food and transport packaging sectors, there are numerous ways to pack the goods efficiently. Today, the food industry is responsible for a large part of the packaging waste generated.

The material of the required packaging also plays an important role. Here, environmentally-conscious companies should pay attention to recycled, recyclable or biodegradable materials. In our assortment, you will find packaging that meets exactly these requirements. When filling material is needed, the biodegradable chips made from corn starch are a good solution. Cardboard boxes with integrated SK closures make the use of additional adhesive tape superfluous and offer the usual recyclability of the packaging.

Step #2: Reuse

The packaging materials that are still needed can be reused multiple times, depending on the application area and packaging type. For example, paper-packaged chips that promise the desired security in the shipping box again and again. The double SK tape-sealed shipping box can also be reused in the second shipment or return, which doubles the shelf life of the package. Hemp wool insulated with transport bags and cardboard boxes can still be used as cold storage bags and even as cultivated wool for watercress. For example, for more ideas on how to update wooden boxes, please read our article on Sustainability Tips for Gift Packaging.

Step #3: Recycle

As a business, in the third step, you can be sure to choose recycled or recyclable materials. In this way, you can contribute to a sustainable cycle and help protect natural resources. However, in the food industry, fatty or moist foods should not directly contact recycled materials. In paper plates, for example, the recycled layer is located in the core and wrapped with moisture-resistant kraft paper. Therefore, your customers can enjoy all food from uncoated and 100% recyclable plates. To match, you can provide paper tissues made entirely from recycled materials. In the field of logistics and transportation, paper cushion bags made from recycled paper can be used. In unpadded packaging, for example, made of recycled test liner, you can protect the goods from shipping damage with stuffing paper made of 100% recyclable material.

5 good reasons for less packaging

But why should companies rely on minimalist and environmentally friendly ways of packaging? The environmental aspect is more relevant than ever, but there are many other compelling reasons to reduce packaging materials. Here are five important aspects.

Doing good for our planet – and your company!

Suppose the required packaging is used consciously and wisely and conventional materials are replaced by those that are within the recycling cycle. In that case, products can be environmentally consciously protected, shipped and sold. Using recycled products, reusing existing packaging, and reducing packaging materials are the most important steps towards a clean and healthy planet. In addition, if the company focuses on environmental friendliness, it can gain a competitive advantage. A sustainable business philosophy can improve the image, and in some cases, it can be the decisive argument for customers. 

Save space thanks to tailor-made packaging.

Packaging that matches the size of your content can save space. This aspect cannot be ignored, especially in the logistics industry. But you can also benefit from bakery and snack counters – if you choose the right size, you can use the remaining space for other items. To the client, the room looks neat and orderly. 

Save time thanks to innovative solutions.

People who choose less packaging materials, especially the right packaging materials, can save time from now on. Because smart solutions and efficient work can also save space and time, choose simple work steps, practical formats, and less material. 

Reduce costs thanks to material savings

In addition to saving space and time, switching to conscious packaging is also an economic advantage. Less material and reuse of existing materials save new acquisition costs. Additionally, precisely matched packages reduce the space and weight required because additional fillers can be omitted. The larger the package, the more expensive the postage. Therefore, proper packaging can also save shipping costs. 

Goods safety and honesty with the right packaging

By paying attention to the correct size of the package, you will provide additional protection to the packaged product. Due to the coordinated dimensions, the goods are fixed and protected during transport because they cannot move freely within the packaging. In the food industry, thanks to tailor-made packaging, you can also ensure that customers receive the expected content they imagined in advance due to the size of the package. 

Minimalism: Where can the material be saved?

The motto “Less is more” in many packaging fields means: achieving multiple positive side effects through one changeover. By reducing packaging materials, you can save money and time at the same time and do some good things for the environment. Orient yourself on the three principles “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” and expand the intent with smart packaging from Eco-Friendly Packaging made of recycled and recyclable materials as well as intelligent packaging solutions that dispense with superfluous materials! Feel free to explore our product range or learn more about sustainability and alternative packaging options on our blog. If you have any questions, we look forward to helping you.

Read our blog on Sustainability Tips for Gift Packaging