How You Can Make Your Packaging More Environmentally Friendly
How can we make your packaging environmentally friendly? That is the question. Did you know that of the 8,300 million tons of plastic produced, 6,300 million end up in landfills? You read that right! Only a measly 9% is recycled!
Don’t you also think that it is our responsibility to reduce this amount, at least in part? Whether you’re an entrepreneur, graphic designer, or college student, there is still something to be done to move forward. Focusing on the packaging used and produced is a good start.
This article looks at how you can identify environmentally friendly packaging and how you can design more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging.
What packaging materials are respectful of the environment?
Let’s start by defining what constitutes sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging.
First, what packaging materials are considered biodegradable?
Paper and cardboard: These packaging materials made from trees are completely biodegradable.
Biodegradable Plastic: There are plastic bags that are biodegradable and begin to break down when exposed to sunlight.
Biodegradable Bubble Wrap: Yes, there is such a thing! Recycled polyethene bubble wrap is environmentally friendly.
Materials made from cornstarch: Containers made from cornstarch are ideal for food. The only downside is that they have limited uses or cannot be reused.
Mushroom materials: Mushroom material is natural, compostable, and takes about 30 days to decompose. It’s so stylish and cool that even IKEA started it!
Seaweed Materials: Seaweed materials degrade in four to six weeks, perfect for food packaging.
Now, if you’re wondering, “Which one is the best?” There is no clear answer for that. As you can see above, each material has its advantages and possible disadvantages. Ultimately, the best is what works best for your business and your product.
What are green plastics?
Who would have thought that we would one day use “environmentally friendly” and “plastic” in one sentence? But here we are, and we are happy that the manufacturing process is progressing like this!
Green plastics may not have reached the average consumer yet, but here are some types to consider:
1. Bioplastics
Bioplastics, which are normally compostable, break down into natural materials that decompose within a few weeks, or they can be mixed with the soil without damaging it. They are made from natural ingredients like cornstarch.
2. Biodegradable plastics
Contains additives that break down plastic more quickly in the presence of light and oxygen. They differ from bioplastics in that biodegradable plastics are made from petrochemical plastics and can leave toxic residues. Bioplastics, on the other hand, are made from natural materials and leave no toxic residue.
3. Eco plastic
Another way to make plastics more environmentally friendly is to recycle them. There were other products called eco plastics that are made from high molecular weight polyethene. They are used in the production of, for example, garden furniture and fence posts.
Parts of your packaging can be designed in an environmentally friendly way.
You may be wondering how you can follow this sustainable packaging trend. For the entrepreneurs among you, here are some ideas on eco-friendly packaging materials and recyclable packaging:
Outer Packaging
Cardboard and paper packaging are leaders in sustainable outer packaging. But did you know that you can also use plastic envelopes? We admit that while the name may sound synthetic, the good news is that they are recyclable!
Padding
When shipping fragile items, padding is required on the box to prevent breakage. And here, too, these biodegradable bubble films are revolutionary! And don’t forget the mushroom holder used by brands like IKEA.
Product Container
Your product container itself can be recyclable or reusable. Instead of plastic packaging, sustainable brands are switching to glass, for example.
Product Labels
Labels are important because they allow you to display your brand and logo proudly. However, being eco-friendly doesn’t mean your label needs to be ripped off right away. You can use a material like BOPP that is both sustainable and strong.
Packaging design, such as tape or stickers
Every part of your packaging can be made more environmentally friendly. Even the little things can make a difference, like making sure your packing tape is made from eco-friendly materials. Like with Sticker Mule!
Why Green Packaging Is Good for Business
1. Customers prefer companies that are helping save the planet
According to the 2019 Edelman Brand Confidence Survey, 71% of consumers surveyed said that the A company’s environmental impact is an important factor in the purchase decision.
2. Did we mention that you are saving the planet?
We cannot stress this enough. With so much plastic waste ending up in landfills and the oceans, it doesn’t matter how small we have to do our part.
3. Create a better brand image
In addition to the points mentioned above, this helps to improve the overall brand image. Not only can you call yourself a green company, but you are also contributing to real change in the world.
4. Sustainable packaging doesn’t have to look ugly or boring
Just because you’re doing your bit for the planet doesn’t mean your brand suffers. Check out the following examples of eco-friendly packaging.
Read our blog on Sustainable packaging – 6 advantages for companies and online shop operators to switch now
