A Complete Guide to Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Packaging

Sustainable packaging not only reduces carbon footprint and saves natural resources but also fascinates eco-aware buyers. For that reason, its market demand is steadily rising. According to a report shared by Research And Markets:

“The global sustainable packaging market is expected to increase from USD 278.1 billion in 2023 to reach USD 391.1 billion by 2029. It exhibits a CAGR of 6% from 2024 to 2029.”

Choosing the right sustainable packaging has become challenging for businesses. But with the right design approach, material selection, and sustainable printing, you can easily make eco-friendly product packaging.

In this blog, we will discuss in detail about sustainable and eco-friendly packaging. Read on to find more!

What is Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Packaging?

Sustainable packaging provides an efficient solution to enclose, store, and ship products without harming the environment. Bags, boxes, bottles, and other types of biodegradable, recyclable, or compostable packaging are considered sustainable or eco-friendly.

The need for these packaging solutions is increasing due to the uncontrolled rise in environmental pollution and climate change. Non-sustainable packaging options like plastic, metals, etc. add toxins and leave a bad carbon footprint. On the other hand, sustainable packaging options leave minimal or no carbon footprint contributing to a greener environment.

The recyclability of such options makes them eligible for reuse instead of going to landfills. That’s how these packaging solutions also contribute to preserving the environment’s natural resources. Environmentalists use the “5R” terminology to define the benefits of eco-friendly packaging:

5 Rs of Sustainable Packaging

Before delivering the features and importance of sustainable packaging, it is important to know the fundamentals of this packaging. Here are 5 Rs of sustainable packaging you must know:

Reduce

The thicker the packaging material, the more time it will take to decompose. That’s why reducing the packaging material is essential if you want to adopt a sustainable packaging approach. This approach focuses on reducing the thickness and size of the packaging so that it serves the purpose and packaging materials aren’t used excessively.

Refill

A durable material can reduce packaging waste and minimize the energy required for recycling if refilled. Bottles, jars, and other packaging containers last longer than other packaging solutions. You can refill and use them multiple times to make a statement with sustainable practices.

Recycle

Recycling is one of the most efficient processes to bring the packaging material back to life. After the packaging has been used, it can go to recycling stations to restore and reuse its material. Nearly all the paper-based packaging options are 100% recyclable.

Reuse

Reusable and returnable solutions are also important when it comes to sustainable packaging. For instance, you can refill and reuse the returnable bottles for retail purposes. You can also craft product packaging in such a way that the end-users can reuse it. Fabric tote bags are a good example of reusable packaging as they can be used to carry groceries over and over again.

Corrugated cartons are also not created for one-time use only. You can reuse these cartons to move your household items or store such items manageably in your store room.

Rethink

The sustainable packaging options don’t offer all the required benefits. This is why rethinking new ideas that do better as eco-friendly as well as reliable packaging shouldn’t be stopped. “Rethink” mantra is all about continuously finding new packaging materials and innovative processes that contribute to reducing carbon footprint along with packing products safely.

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5 Rs of Sustainable Packaging

Reduce

Refill

Recycle

Reuse

Rethink

3 Distinctive Features of Sustainable Packaging

A sustainable or green packaging solution comes with distinctive features that make it eco-friendly. If you want to make sustainable packaging for your products, never overlook these 3 features:

Recyclability

If you want to go for sustainable product packaging, choose the one that can be recycled. Recycling allows the restoration of material so it becomes pristine enough to recreate packaging. Various recyclable packaging materials like some plastic, paper-based, and certain metal packaging materials can be recycled without hassle.

Biodegradability

Biodegradability is another feature of sustainable packaging making it leave no carbon footprint. Such packaging decomposes naturally and doesn’t add pollutants to our environment. Kraft, cardboard, and biodegradable plastic are some remarkable materials that decompose naturally. If you want to make a positive impact on the environment, go for materials that leave no carbon footprint. 

Compostability

Compostable packaging materials can be used as plant compost easily. For example, in their pure form, nearly all paper-based packaging materials are compostable. They can be processed and converted into compost so you can use the compost to fertilize the soil and grow plants faster. But keep in mind that packaging materials printed with non-sustainable inks must be bleached before composting.

Sustainable Packaging Design Approaches to Consider

Packaging design decides how sustainable a packaging is as packaging materials alone can’t decide the sustainability of packaging. Choosing an eco-friendly approach when designing boxes and bags for your products is paramount. Here are some tips to consider if you want to make a sustainable packaging design:

Optimize Packaging Size

Optimizing the dimensions of the packaging according to products is essential. It does not only provide a snug fit to your products but also plays a role in saving the packaging material. The more material is used to make packaging, the more the resources get to waste.

If you want to stick to your eco-friendly packaging goals, optimize the size of your packaging. Your packaging must neither be too small that products don’t fit inside nor should it be too large to require extra material.

Use Packaging That Can Be Repurposed

Choose a packaging design that allows and encourages users to reuse the packaging. For instance, go for plain yet elegant boxes to pack your products. Users can reuse such packaging boxes for gifting purposes. Also, you can print your product packing with graphics that illustrate how your buyers can repurpose the packaging.

For example, a gardening tool brand can pack its products in durable boxes and print the repurposing guidelines on the boxes. Doing so will help the customers to use those boxes as plant pots.

Eco-Friendly Printing Options

One of the most important aspects of printed packaging that pollutes the environment is the printing ink. Non-sustainable printing inks add toxins to the environment that are hazardous to the biodiversity of our planet. However, water and soy-based inks are good alternatives to hazardous printing inks. These inks are 100% free from toxins making them a reliable and eco-friendly option.

Eco-Friendly Product Packaging Options

Now that we know eco-friendly design approaches for your product packaging, let’s discuss some sustainable packaging material options you can consider. Here are some of the most reliable choices you can pick from for your product packaging:

Cardstock Boxes

Cardstock packaging boxes are made from fine and smooth paper-based packaging materials. These boxes come with various features along with sustainability and biodegradability and can be personalized according to your needs; making them perfect for the product packaging of various industries.

Kraft Paper Bags

Kraft paper bags are another 100% recyclable and biodegradable packaging option to pick from. These bags are famous for their robust design, making them perfect for carrying groceries and other products. Kraft bags are also safe for food packaging as they don’t add toxins to edibles.

Although these bags are plant-based, you can still print glorious graphics such as imagery and text on them without hassle. To do so, you need to choose sustainable inks and printing methods.

Biodegradable & Recyclable Plastic Packaging

According to a report shared by the Plastic Pollution Coalition:

“Plastics may contain around 16,000 different chemicals. At least 4,200 (26%) of these chemicals are hazardous to the environment as well as human health.”

Although plastic bags, bottles, and wraps are hazardous and not biodegradable, they are popular as a reliable packaging material. A sustainable alternative to this type of packaging is biodegradable plastic packaging. 

Plant-based plastic is the best example of biodegradable yet robust packaging materials for products.

Case Study:

Coca-Cola wanted to address the harmful impact of PET plastic bottles on the environment. To do so, Coca-Cola introduced the PlantBottle in 2009. This bottle was a PET plastic bottle, made from around 30% plant-based stock. Bioethanol extracted from sugarcane was used to make this plant-based biodegradable plastic.

Corrugated Cardboard Mailer Boxes

Corrugated cardboard is a sturdy packaging solution that helps protect and ship the products with utmost safety. Corrugated boxes are made of kraft paper that is biodegradable and recyclable.

The best thing about corrugated boxes is that they come with fluted multilayer material that provides a cushioning effect to products packed inside them. This feature is the reason why corrugated packaging boxes are considered to be ideal for shipping.

Edible Packaging

Food-grade packaging is considered to be sustainable and ideal for food products. The reason is that it not only protects our planet from pollution but also puts no hazards to the health of humans. Plastic packaging made from casein is edible and safe for food packaging.

Trays, straws, and other packaging items can be made from rice or wheat starch instead of plastic. These biodegradable and edible materials are 100% safe to be consumed by consumers. Seaweed is also a popular material that has emerged as an edible packaging solution. 

Case Study:

Le Club has become the first swimwear brand to use seaweed packaging. The packaging used by Le Club is created from 100% recyclable kraft with a Sway seaweed laminated die-cut window.

Price Point of Sustainable Packaging

Sustainable packaging seems to require significant investment in the first place. The reason is that paying attention to sustainable design, material, and printing would require a significant budget. However, it pays off well. According to a report shared by PR Newswire,

“82% of buyers are ready to pay more for products packed in sustainable packaging.”

Customers who have become aware of the harm caused by non-sustainable packaging prefer to buy items in eco-friendly packaging. This behavior has increased the demand for sustainable packaging over time. Considering the positive rise in the demand of sustainable packaging, it is a prolific investment.

Why is Sustainable Packaging a Must-Have for Your Business?

The importance of reducing packaging waste is undeniable as the rise in environmental pollution and climate change is jeopardizing the habitat on Earth. But, is sustainable packaging beneficial for your health? Let’s discuss why sustainable packaging is a must-have for your business success:

Ensure ESG Compliance

Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) includes a set of guidelines based on which the sustainability of business can be measured. According to the guidelines of ESG, you must use recyclable packaging materials to testify to the sustainability of your business practices.

If you go for an eco-friendly packaging approach, you can comply with ESG rules preventing you from legalities.

Attract Eco-Aware Buyers

As discussed before, the price point of products packed in sustainable packaging is increasing. The reason is that end-users have become aware of the harms posed by non-sustainable packaging. If you choose eco-friendly boxes and bags to pack your products, you can fascinate your eco-conscious buyers and boost your sales. 

Reduce Carbon Footprint

Reducing packaging's carbon footprint with the use of sustainable packaging can also help you make a positive impact on the environment. If you go for sustainable product packaging, you can make a statement as a business that can enhance your popularity in the market.

Minimize Packaging Associated Health Hazards

Non-sustainable packaging is associated with various health hazards. Choking hazards, plastic toxicity, and harmful gas production are some common risks that are avoided by biodegradable and recyclable packaging. By reducing the health hazards, you can build trust in your buyers about your sustainable business practices.

Role of Packaging in a Circular Economy

The circular economy aims to reduce the waste of energy and resources and create opportunities for economic growth. And the circular economy of packaging ensures that product packaging waste can be minimized to a great extent.

According to this system, packaging materials firstly manufacture boxes that are used to pack products. In the end, the packaging is recycled so it can be reused for packaging purposes. This approach creates a cycle that ensures the energy and resources can be conserved.

Legislative Regulations for Sustainable Packaging

The significance of sustainable business practices is well-understood at the government level. As a result, various regulations have been designed to promote sustainable packaging.

For instance, Extended Product Responsibility (EPR) is a set of guidelines that were originally implemented in Europe. However, they are being designed and implemented in the US as well. According to these guidelines businesses are mandated to take responsibility for product waste due to their business practices.

Packing your products in ISO-certified packaging can impress your buyers. You can customize your product packaging according to ISO 14001 guidelines and get certification for using environmentally friendly packaging.

The Green Guides of FTC rules is another remarkable measure that stops false claims of businesses about sustainable practices. According to these rules, fake environmental marketing claims in the U.S. may result in legal action against businesses doing it.

Where to Get Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions?

Now that you have explored everything you need to know about sustainable packaging, let’s discuss where to get this packaging. You can look for one-stop packaging companies like OXO Packaging to get sustainable and eco-friendly packaging at wholesale prices.

Final Words

We hope you now know everything about sustainable packaging and how to use it for your business needs. If you want to know more or customize sustainable packaging, reach out to us today, and we’ll be happy to help!