In the business world, eco-friendly initiatives were once considered innovative.
Previously, only specialized or progressive companies would emphasize environmental sustainability.
Engaging in sustainable practices today is no longer merely optional but rather an emerging norm.
There is a growing demand from different organizations for collaborative eco-friendly endeavors to ensure the preservation of our planet.
The United Nations highlights that if the global population reaches 9.6 billion by 2050, sustaining our current lifestyles would require nearly three Earth-like resources.
As environmental consciousness grows, eco-friendly packaging has gained attention as businesses strive for sustainable solutions.
Here are the top solutions for packaging businesses to adopt in delivering a greener future.
Begin With The Basics
To implement eco-friendly packaging, it is advisable to prioritize basic sustainability measures over complex processes. Begin by embracing the three R's: reuse, reduce, and recycle. Cardboard and wooden boxes used for packaging large products or batches can be easily repurposed for future packaging needs.
Request that distributors or retailers return these boxes for reuse. Plastic boxes and crates can serve for multiple years in the packaging process.
Promote the recycling of packaging materials to the greatest extent possible. Corrugated cardboard packaging and paper can be easily recycled, while glass and wood can be both reused and recycled repeatedly.
Before considering reusing or recycling packaging materials:
Reflect on whether extra layers of plastic are necessary. If they are, explore more sustainable alternatives.
Minimize the amount of material used initially.
If not, minimize these layers in your packaging approach.
Consider Using Innovative Materials
Biodegradation is a distinct form of recycling in which materials break down under specific conditions. Bioplastic, such as recycled polyethylene, serves as one such material that can be utilized in the production of carrier bags, envelopes, and bubble wrap. When exposed to daylight, it naturally decomposes.
For many retailers, cardboard and paper are preferred materials due to their printable and customizable properties.
Cardboard boxes, paper envelopes, and tissue paper pose a lower environmental risk when disposed of in landfills compared to plastics, glass, or metals.
Corn starch also offers an excellent option for producing compostable packing peanuts. These peanuts can be composted after use, contributing to a more sustainable disposal method.
Durable plastic made from potato starch derived from waste vegetables decomposes within 12 weeks when placed on a compost heap.
An exemplary example is Dell's innovative bamboo cushioning solution, which not only safeguards its products during transportation but also allows customers to compost the cushions after use.
Companies can adopt a closed-loop or circular economy approach by recovering, recycling, and reusing discarded objects.
This approach not only promotes sustainability but also reduces the overall consumption of primary materials.
Ship Products in Smaller Packages
Taking steps to reduce your ecological footprint can be as simple as minimizing the use of packaging materials. This involves opting for smaller boxes, bags, and containers for your products.
By doing so, not only are you contributing to sustainability, but you may also lower your shipping costs. Consider purchasing smaller packing supplies and reducing the amount of filler materials used.
Try experimenting with the size and arrangement of your products to see if they can fit into smaller packages.
For example, if you offer furniture that can be disassembled, explore different positions for its components to find the most space-saving approach.
When shipping foldable items like apparel, ensure they are tightly folded to fit perfectly in smaller boxes.
Reduce Excessive Packaging Across the Supply Chain
Within the retail supply chain, packaging materials are readily utilized. Products undergo bagging, baling, or bundling processes, often resulting in additional packaging.
It is imperative to optimize the movement of merchandise across the chain in order to minimize the use of these materials and the associated waste.
Collaborate with suppliers and vendors to enhance supply chain practices. Consider implementing the following measures:
Create demands to avoid overproduction or excessive product orders.
Advocate for using sustainable materials by all supply chain partners throughout the process.
Consolidate shipments to reduce the number of packaging materials required.
Adopt Environmentally Friendly Materials for Your Business
Compostable Packaging
Compostable materials have the natural ability to decompose and return to the earth without leaving harmful residue.
These packaging materials are made from plant-based substances like corn, sugar cane, and bamboo and may include bio-poly mailers.
To be considered truly compostable, a material must fully break down within 180 days in home composting and within 90 days in commercial composting settings.
Corrugated packaging
Corrugated packaging comprises box fibers primarily sourced from trees and old corrugated containers. According to corrugated.org, these fibers can be reused 7 to 10 times to create new packaging materials.
Corrugated packaging is the most commonly recovered material for recycling among all packaging types. It is extensively utilized in the industry, with many online merchants relying on it for packaging and shipping their products.
Recycled packaging
Recycled packaging materials offer an environmentally friendly alternative to packaging solutions. These materials provide a second life to existing plastics in circulation.
Utilizing recycled materials enables the conservation of natural resources, minimizes landfill waste, and helps prevent pollution by reducing the demand for raw materials.
Cornstarch packaging
Cornstarch packaging refers to materials derived from cornstarch, a renewable source that is free from harmful toxins.
Cornstarch can also be used to create biodegradable packing peanuts. It provides a favorable substitute for traditional materials like bubble wrap and styrofoam.
Kraft paper
Kraft paper is produced using wood pulp, including resinous pine, which is often excluded in the production of regular paper.
The manufacturing process of kraft paper emphasizes sustainability, as nearly all the chemicals utilized can be reused. This approach ensures that the production of kraft paper is environmentally conscious and promotes a more sustainable outcome.
Essential Reminders for Transitioning to a Greener Future
Before embarking on the journey of making your packaging more environmentally friendly, it is important to consider the following tips:
Recognize the potential for growth and understand the future sustainability requirements that may arise. Assess the stakes involved in meeting these requirements.
Gain clarity on the manufacturing costs, sourcing convenience, and the level of sustainability you aim to achieve.
Work with the right people who can not only support your transition towards greener packaging but also ensure it is done in a profitable manner for your business.
Ensure you have the appropriate tools in place to streamline your packaging designs and facilitate collaboration among your teams.
Develop a comprehensive action plan that outlines the changes you aim to incorporate in your packaging and design. Determine the scope of implementation across different levels.
Conclusion
While transitioning to more sustainable packaging may pose challenges, embracing this change creates a win-win scenario for both your brand's image and packaging costs.
There are countless approaches available to make your packaging more environmentally friendly, but it is important to select those that align with your business objectives.
Overcoming the obstacles of this transition requires an efficient supply chain and a robust system capable of managing your packaging needs.
In the business world, eco-friendly initiatives were once considered innovative.
Previously, only specialized or progressive companies would emphasize environmental sustainability.
Engaging in sustainable practices today is no longer merely optional but rather an emerging norm.
