How much of your packaging ends up in the trash after just one use?
If you are like most businesses, the answer is probably more than you'd like.
And it is hurting your business as more and more customers are now choosing brands based on sustainability.
So, if you want to reduce waste, lower costs over time, and build a greener brand for your customers, check out our 10 eco-friendly packaging materials that help you go green.
But first, let's understand what we mean by eco-friendly packaging.
What Makes Packaging Eco-Friendly?
It is a trend that is all about reducing harm to the environment throughout the product's lifestyle.
I'm talking about using materials that come from renewable sources, break down naturally and in composting facilities, or can be reused multiple times.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Materials
1. Recycled Paper & Cardboard
Paper is one of the most widely used materials in packaging, and recycled versions offer a more sustainable option.
Recycled paper and cardboard are made from post-consumer waste. So they reduce the need for virgin materials.
And the good thing is that you can use them in so many ways as a packaging material. Most people prefer them for boxes, while others use them for packaging inserts. Still, you can use them for envelopes.
They are easy to source, cost-effective, and biodegradable. You can also customize them to suit your brand.
2. Compostable Mailers (PLA, PBST)
Over 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year. Most of it isn't recycled.
Compostable mailers offer a biodegradable option. The ones made from either PLA or PBAT break down in commercial composting facilities within 90 to 180 days.
They are also:
Water-resistant
Durable
Look professional
Moreso, they reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help you meet sustainability goals at the same time.
Most compostable mailers are used to shop clothing, accessories, and lightweight items.
3. Mushroom Packaging
Much like the way mushrooms grow in nature, mushroom packaging forms by binding agricultural waste with mycelium.
This material is fully biodegradable and compostable within 30 to 90 days. It's lightweight, durable, and you can mold it to fit your product.
Most people use mushrooms to protect fragile items. That includes electronics, cosmetics, or glassware.
4. Cornstarch Packaging
Did you know cornstarch packaging comes from a renewable ingredient that might already be in your kitchen?
Yes, it's made from corn starch, so it breaks easily in composting conditions. This packaging material is the perfect environmentally-friendly alternative to your trays and plastic wraps.
Cornstarch packaging is lightweight, non-toxic, and safe for direct food contact.
5. Seaweed-Based Packaging
Seaweed is already used in food and personal care products. Now, it's one of the sustainable packaging trends.
Have you ever seen those packaging materials that are edible or break down quickly in the environment without leaving harmful residue?
Seaweed is usually the solution. It's mostly used in single-use sachets or even takeaway containers.
6. Bagasse
Every time sugarcane is processed, it leaves behind fibrous waste called bagasse. This waste is now repurposed into a packaging material that is sturdy, biodegradable, and microwave-safe.
Bagasse gives you the chance to make your food containers, trays, or plates eco-friendly. So take it if you want to go green.
7. Glassine Paper
Or do you need a packaging material that's grease resistant and still recyclable? Glassine paper fits that role well.
It's:
Smooth
Semi-transparent
Resistant to air, water, and oil.
That's not all.
Glassine paper doesn't use any synthetic coating. So, it works well in food, stationery, and cosmetics.
If you are tired of using plastic or wax-coated paper, try a packaging made from pure wood pulp. And that's glassine paper.
8. Recycled Plastics (rPET)
One ton of recycled plastic saves over 5,000 kilowatt-hours of energy. rPET is made from recycled plastic bottles and containers.
These are strong just as the virgin product but they come with a smaller environmental cost.
I use rPET for bottles, clamshell containers, and protective packaging. Of course, it works well, especially when durability and clarity matter like in beverages or personal care.
While it's not biodegradable, I see rPET as a way to keep plastic out of landfills.
9. Bamboo Packaging
Bamboo grows up to 35 inches in a single day, so this makes it one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth.
It is also part of what makes bamboo packaging a smart choice besides the usual:
Biodegradable
Durable
Many brands use it for cosmetics, electronics, food containers, and even mailers.
Since it regrows quickly and doesn't require pesticides, it puts less strain on the environment.
10. Reusable Packaging
Not every packaging ends up in the trash after a single use. Fabric bags, tins, and jars are examples of reusable packaging.
These are durable, easy to clean, and can be used again and again by your customers.
Over time, they reduce your packaging costs and environmental footprint.
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Material
You don't just pick a material and hope for the best. There are factors to consider. Preference is one of them.
Use the checklist below to guide you:
Purpose
Is the packaging for protection, presentation, or both?
You should know your primary goal to narrow your choices. Also, different materials offer different strengths. So, this step is key.
Durability
How strong or long-lasting do you want the packaging material to be?
Some eco-friendly options are sturdy. I'm talking about bamboo and rPET. Others like paper only work better for lighter items.
Cost
There are sustainable materials that cost more upfront but save money over time through reusability or lower waste fees. So, factor in your budget.
Impact
Look beyond the product itself. Things like how the material is sourced, manufactured, and disposed of matters in eco-friendly packaging.
Customer
Think about your audience’s values and expectations. Over 72% of customers prefer eco-friendly brands. So align your business with that to appeal to these customers.
Conclusion: Start Your Sustainable Packaging Journey
Are you thinking of cutting packaging waste, lowering your carbon footprint, meeting the growing customer demand for sustainable brands?
Switch to eco-friendly packaging. It is what you need to go green.
Choosing the right packaging material takes some research and testing to find the best materials for your products. But the long-term benefits are worth your effort.
Make the switch today.
Any of the 10 eco-friendly packaging materials covered in our article should take you closer to a more responsible and trusted future.
