Lately, our world is becoming increasingly conscious of environmental impacts. Thus, sustainable packaging has become a hot topic in recent years. Packaging being the biggest contributor to world waste, is now at the forefront of introducing innovative packaging trends. Trends that are sustainable and beneficial for everyone. Also, because people are becoming more eco-conscious and they appreciate brands that use eco-friendly packaging.
Hence, whether to entice customers or reduce carbon footprint, sustainable packaging is indispensable. There are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives available in the market.
Read out our comprehensive guide on how to choose perfectly sustainable packaging for your brand.
The Importance of Sustainable Packaging
Traditional packaging solutions like plastic, while sturdy and convenient, are notorious for their environmental impact. They largely contribute to pollution by taking centuries to decompose. Moreover, they also use non-renewable resources.
Sustainable packaging, on the other hand, is a solution to pollution. It is designed to address all those issues created by traditional packaging materials. They are decomposable, created with recycled material and help in reducing overall waste. Moreover, continued innovation, coupled with growing environmental awareness is likely to promote widespread adoption.
Given the current situation of the environment, eco-friendly packaging solutions are a breath of fresh air.
Types Of Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
There are plenty of eco-friendly solutions in the market. Many packaging companies have dived into the field and serve humanity by offering green-friendly solutions.
Here’s a list of various eco-friendly options:
1. Biodegradable and Compostable Materials:
Biodegradable packaging has a natural process of breaking down into non-toxic components. This type of packaging helps reduce landfills.
Compostable materials go a step further. They compost into nutrient-rich compost.
Their examples are:
PLA (Polylactic Acid):
This type of packaging is derived from renewable resources like corn starch. PLA is used in various applications, from food containers to utensils.
Mushroom Packaging:
This type of packaging is made from agricultural waste and mycelium. This is an innovative material and is entirely compostable.
Seaweed Packaging:
Edible and biodegradable, seaweed packaging is gaining popularity for food wraps and sachets.
2. Recyclable Packaging:
Materials that can be reused and reprocessed are an integral part of sustainable packaging solutions. Key recyclable materials are:
Paper and Cardboard:
This is the most widely recycled and versatile recyclable packaging material. Paper and cardboard are extensively used for containers, eco-friendly gift packaging, and custom boxes. Their packaging bags are also taking the market by storm and replacing polythene bags.
Many reliable packaging companies like Nova Custom Boxes are offering custom packaging in recyclable materials. You get plenty of customization options to adorn and customize your packaging.
Glass:
The best thing about glass is “recyclable indefinitely”. Although fragile, glass is an excellent option for food and beverage containers. It has been used as packaging for centuries and no other material could replace it.
Aluminium:
It is the most lightweight and endlessly recyclable material. Aluminium is commonly used in cans and foil packaging.
3. Reusable Packaging:
This type of packaging emphasises on prudent use of resources. These types of packaging are designed for multiple time uses. They include:
Cloth Bags:
Extremely durable, severally reusable and washable. Cloth bags are a sustainable and economical alternative to single-use plastic bags.
Stainless Steel Containers:
This packaging type is ideal for food storage and transportation. These containers are long-lasting and eco-friendly.
Glass Jars:
Perfect for grocery goods, storing pantry items, and luxury products like perfumes. Glass jars can be reused indefinitely.
Innovations in Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Innovation is an integral part of life. Innovation helps bring more ease and introduces flawlessness in procedures. The focus towards sustainability has given way to innovation in this niche. Thus, there are plenty of innovative materials and practices introduced in sustainable packaging lately.
1. Edible Packaging:
Made from food-grade materials, edible packaging is the new era of packaging. It is miraculous, as it eliminates waste entirely. Examples include rice paper wraps and seaweed-based films.
2. Plant-Based Inks:
Traditional inks are petroleum-based. The innovative inks derived from soy or algae have replaced the traditional inks. Thus, they help in reducing environmental impact.
3. Minimalist Packaging:
To reduce the amount of material used in packaging, minimalist designs are introduced. They prioritize efficiency and environmental friendliness.
Conclusion
Sustainable packaging is not only about consumer satisfaction but for a healthier and greener future. Eco-friendly packaging is not only more practical but also helps businesses to stabilize their operations. It can create a win-win situation for everyone, i.e. consumers, the planet and businesses.
Given the current environmental degradation, sustainable packaging is crucial to fight against it. Thus, only adopting eco-friendly materials, promoting recyclability, and reducing waste is the key to a greener future. So let’s join hands and commit to sustainable packaging to significantly lessen the impact on the planet.
