Sustainable packaging can be reprocessed into new materials, focusing on reducing waste with the conservation of natural resources. Packaging materials that come under sustainable criteria have the potential to be recycled, reusable, or degraded naturally without harming the environment.
Be it any food container, shipping carton, or whatever kind of product box, sustainability in packaging plays a crucial role in safeguarding our ecosystem. Ultimately, it is a minimal negative impact that the packaging has managed to let the needs of businesses and consumers be met.
Moreover, it was discovered that the demand for sustainable packaging material is growing at a considerable rate. According to a survey by McKinsey in 2021, 60% of consumers are inclined towards the sustainability of packaging.
What are the Types of Sustainable Packaging?
As soon as sustainability is taking over the world, people are looking for more options that would help them to save the environment. This eco-friendly packaging approach has been adopted by almost every industry. From apparel packaging to cosmetics and even CBD product packaging, it has been used to offer an appealing look to the products.
There are several types of sustainable packaging, each providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging. The major types include the following:
Biodegradable Packaging
This packaging option is made of materials that will naturally decompose without harming the environment. Everything, from plastics to paper, that is of plant origin or sourced from nature falls under this category and is becoming more popular every day.
Recycled Packaging
These are the materials that are already used and are processed to be used again. Examples include plastic, paper, glass, and metals. This is an excellent option when you don’t want to seek a new raw material to create something.
Reusable Packaging
This type of packaging option is more versatile. Reusable packaging options allow you to use the same packaging for multiple purposes. You can use empty jars of glass for storing dry or wet foods and clothing bags for gifting purposes.
Compostable Packaging
One of the most beneficial types of packaging is compostable. It is like a win-win situation for both the consumer and the environment. Similar to biodegradable, this packaging option is made from natural resources. When broken down naturally, it is decomposed as compost that is ideal for the soil.
By incorporating these types of sustainable product packaging, any brand, whether it is a small or a big fish in the market, can significantly eliminate their environmental impact.
What are the 5 R’s of Sustainable Packaging
A sustainable approach is a practice, especially when it comes to the packaging industry. By incorporating the 5 R’s in packaging designs, you can not only overcome the reduction that is caused by bad packaging designs but also create a positive impact in the environment.
1. Reduce
This means you should use fewer materials in the packaging process. Cutting unnecessary layers will make your packaging box more efficient, lighter, and cost-efficient. Reducing the dependency on certain materials in your practices can help you reduce waste.
2. Reuse
With its name, this R has been justified. It is about creating packaging that can be used again or more than once. Single-use plastic has emerged as a problem for both the environment and consumers.
People overcome this one-time use of packaging by shifting their mentality to more sustainability and making an effort to reuse their packaging. Glass containers are a perfect example since these can be used many times after using the product inside.
3. Recycle
Opt for any material that can easily be recycled, and you can go a long way with it. For instance, paper, cardboard and even some types of plastics can be recycled. Using recyclable materials in your packaging not only extends the lifecycle of your packaging but also lessens the need for more raw materials.
4. Replace
This is where you have to find a substitute for harmful materials with renewable packaging options. Examples include plant-based materials like plastics that can be replaced with classical petroleum-based plastic. Only natural resource materials can be the best alternative option to lower carbon footprint and pollution.
5. Remove
Eliminate unnecessary elements from packaging. For example, removing excess plastic wrap or other materials that don’t serve a functional purpose helps to cut down on waste. Refuse to use excess and unnecessary elements from your packaging. Even if you are working with vendors, tell them about your packaging needs and how you want something reusable.
By promoting these sustainable packaging solutions, your business can contribute to reducing waste, creating more resources and creating tailored packaging that is better for the environment.
How do you know if packaging is sustainable?
Where an eco-conscious approach has taken over everything, food brands are also leading with sustainable packaging for their consumers. But how can you analyze whether your packaging is sustainable or not?
Evaluating this can involve the consideration of a variety of factors, such as:
Material
For every point, you have to ask certain questions about the product. Is it made from sustainable packaging materials? Materials like bamboo, sugarcane, or biodegradable plastics? How much impact does it have on the environment? By answering these questions, you can determine if the packaging is sustainable.
End of Life
The end goal of sustainable packaging material is to come naturally and return to the earth without causing any harm. It would be best to evaluate whether the packaging could be easily recycled, composted or biodegraded. What contributions will it make to the environment before getting disposed of?
Production Process
What processes has this packaging gone through, or how is it made? Another critical factor to consider! You should be aware of the eco-friendly methods of making a packaging box. A package with a brown paper tag that says it is biodegradable will add value to your business. Because it will be made with fewer pollutants or toxins during production because the less pollution, the more sustainable it will be.
Certifications
You can also analyze the sustainability of packaging by its certifications. Look for an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certificate for paper products. It will be labelled “compostable” or ‘biodegradable’. If the packaging material is certified, it will create more authenticity and value for your product.
Examples of Sustainable Packaging
Most of the emerging companies need to turn towards the use of sustainable packaging solutions. They have implemented some real-life examples related to sustainable packaging that would help increase their sales growth and hence would help them generate revenue.
Paper-Based Boxes and Containers
These boxes usually come with a wide range of options. From cardboard boxes to kraft paper boxes, these paper-based, naturally obtained materials are eco-friendly and lessen plastic waste. Often made from renewable sources such as wood pulp and recycled paper, packaging made from paper allows you to integrate limitless customization options. Food chains and cosmetic brands primarily promote these paper-based tailored solutions to attract more customers.
Plant-Based Plastics
Unlike traditional plastics that consume much energy and still take years to degrade, plant-based plastics can be obtained naturally from corn starch, sugarcane, and other renewable resources. Plant-based packaging can be seen widely in the food industry to reduce the unwanted essence of plastic waste so that you can enjoy your food without worrying about your health.
Mushroom Packaging
The most innovative yet sustainable packaging design is made from the root structure of mushrooms called mycelium. Usually, mycelium is allowed to combine with agricultural waste to bind and form a paper-like material. This packaging option is the best substitute for styrofoam and non-degradable plastic.
Conclusion: Why does sustainable packaging matter?
The importance of environmentally sustainable packaging is undeniable because of its numerous benefits. Around the world, almost 8 million tons of plastic are found in deep oceans. This wastage of plastic harms underwater life and contributes negatively to the environment. By switching to sustainable packaging solutions that are more focused on eco-consciousness, companies are proliferating. This awareness has brought into focus the issue of reducing plastic waste and increasing health in the ecosystem.
They aimed to come up with the ultimate alternative to the non-sustainable packaging option in such a way that it could be manifested that product packaging is sustainable. Every solution should be customized to reduce carbon footprints and make a healthier environment where every living being can survive, from natural resources to renewable ones.
