According to the UN, the world’s population will reach 9.6 billion by 2050—equivalent to almost three planets to sustain our current lifestyle. However, since we have only one liveable planet, we need to preserve it as much as we can. And one of the ways of preservation is by switching to sustainable packaging companies.
Various organisations globally are calling for more eco-friendly collective ways to sustain the planet.
Choosing eco-friendly packaging supplies and techniques is a major contributing factor to minimise wastage in landfills and oceans.
A lot of you are aware of sustainable packaging and its benefits. But let’s look at some of the strategies and innovations that help to implement the idea of eco-friendly packaging.
Shipping Smaller Packages
Reducing ecological footprint doesn’t need huge investments. It can start simply by reducing your packaging materials. Use smaller boxes, bags, and bubble wraps for products that aren’t fragile.
It is sustainable and also decreases your shipping cost. The key is to think smart. What products are you selling? Do you need three layers of bubble wrap for a single non-breakable product? Ask questions, and you will get the answers.
Educate and Recycle
We know that recycling practices and facilities vary from city to city. But in the U.K., we are known for some of the best recycling practices.
Use this to educate your customers on ways to dispose of packing supplies.
For example, you can label the boxes and get some illustrations on cardboard boxes regarding waste disposal. It is easy and doable.
Plant-Based Packaging Materials
Plant-based packing supplies are rapidly growing in number.
These are made of biological resources like mushrooms, seaweed, and maize. Even food waste is considered for packaging.
However, a lot of it is still under development, so choose wisely. If you are selling food-based products, make sure the materials won’t affect the flavours of the food.
Also, for bulkier products, go for durable plant-based packaging supplies like corn-starch or mushrooms.
Recycled Packaging Supplies
Many packaging companies in the market sell recycled packaging as a way of increasing sustainability.
Most packages have cardboard boxes or mailers. Use boxes and other supplies that are made of recycled materials.
In the U.K., paperboard cardboard is the most popular example of recycled packaging. Paperboard can be easily cut and sized into different boxes.
Sometimes plastic mailers are made out of single-use bags or plastic bottles. These plastics are procc-ed at recycling units to form packaging supplies.
Plantable Packaging
Pangea Organics was the first company to introduce plantable packaging with the slogan—coming from the earth and going back to it.
The idea was to make zero-waste packaging with a seamless disposal process. Plantable packages have plant seeds embedded into them with some given instructions. Customers can plant these after use.
It is a great way to encourage customers with a sustainable activity. They work great with lightweight containers like cosmetics, jewellery, or accessories.
Avoiding Overpacking in The Supply Chain
Packaging materials have no shortage in the supply chain industry. Products are pack-ed, often numerous times or bundled before they arrive at their destinations.
Controlling the wastage is extremely necessary throughout the supply chain. Work with suppliers to understand the demand. This will ensure that you don’t overbuy packing supplies.
Work With Distributors with Similar Beliefs
Choosing whom to work with is the independence that you have in your business.
Packaging supply wholesalers like Packaging Midlands prioritise sustainability and have options that will help you win the battle.
Do your research well, and before signing a packag-ing company, and know about their practices. Ask questions like what materials do they use? Check out their website and premises if necessary to look at the facilities, equipment, or supplies.
Compostable Plastic Alternatives
Composting is a very healthy practice.
If you need plastic-based packag-ing for your products, go for compostable plastic alternatives with plant-based polymer.
They can be easily compost-ed at home or commercially. This composting packag-ing lasts as long as 90 days, depending on its quality.
There are various ways to do sustainable packaging, and if approached right, it can be a huge crowd puller.
The finest way to go green is to take one step at a time. It can be switching to eco-friendly packaging supplies or switching vendors. As long as you deliver the correct message in the right way and measure the results, it will only expand your business.
