The Ultimate Guide to Eco-Friendly Packaging
The packaging industry is famous for using excess material, non-recyclable plastic, and creating a lot of noise and water pollution. Nowadays, people are becoming aware of the harm it brings to human life and the environment. They are moving away from using plastic and want eco-friendly packaging. Even the Government has made strict rules for this purpose. Here will discuss the ultimate guide to Eco-friendly packaging.
What is Eco-friendly packaging?
When the brands claim that they are using eco-friendly packaging, it will fall into all these categories.
Reusable
The reusable packaging is designed, keeping in mind that it can be cleaned and used multiple times. Sometimes the packaging is recreated and used in a wholly innovative or creative way. It is mostly done for economic and sustainable reasons, and the typical reusable items are beer kegs and glass milk bottles.
Recyclable
Paper is considered to be the most recyclable material that is nowadays used in the packaging. It will give a lot of benefits to the environment as it diverts the waste materials from the land. Wood pulp is not only considered environmentally friendly material; it is affordable too. Although paper is a good option, it doesn’t hold many benefits for keeping the food safe for a long time. Products like flour and sugar are packed in traditional sacks so that the shelf life can increase more.
Compostable and biodegradable packaging
Compostable and biodegradable packagings are quite similar to each other, and even the process of creation is the same too. They both break down and return to the earth without giving any harmful effects. However, the only difference is that compostable packaging will give nutrients back to earth even after it has broken down. Plastic containers are getting replaced in every industry.
Benefits of Eco-friendly Packaging
Refined image of brands
No wonder the society is having a more serious approach towards their health and environment. The demand for eco-friendly packaging is increasing each day. If you have an edge here, there is no way your brand won’t get success. It is a way to reflect your brand’s values and morals and share your story with more loyalty.
Biodegradable
Having biodegradable packaging has many advantages as it naturally degrades into the ecosystem without causing any issues. The use of carbon footprint will reduce drastically, and the brand can manage to produce their products under tight environmental laws.
Multi-functional
Eco-friendly packaging is not only versatile but offers multi-functional features. Many industries are using this packaging design, but it has become the first necessity for food, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Low Carbon foot
The process of creating eco-friendly packaging doesn’t harm the environment as compared to other options. The recyclable products and easily renewable sources are mostly used for this purpose. For the packaging of some products, sometimes recyclable plastic is also in use. Even when you are shipping the products, you can feel at ease that the environment is safe and sound.
Is eco-friendly packaging more costly?
There is a misconception that eco-friendly packaging is more expensive as compared to other options. It may be when going green wasn’t a priority, but nowadays; this packaging has become a cost-effective choice. Many manufacturers are offering eco-friendly boxes as the demand just keeps increasing. Fortunately, going green doesn’t mean that you invest a lot of money. Here are some tips:
Don’t overpack your goods
You don’t need to waste money on expensive or excessive packaging designs. It is good to use padding and cushions for protecting the products but never go overboard. The takeout foods are packed in Kraft paper boxes as they are the perfect choice for keeping the food fresh. Some restaurants even use containers, trays, and cups made of eco-friendly materials, so customers’ health can stay sound.
Use corrugated boxes
Corrugated cardboard is one of those materials which can be recycled many times. It has to be collected, processed, and boxes are manufactured quickly. You can customize them according to your requirements, and they will look pretty attractive too. The custom eco-friendly packaging is an excellent way to promote your products, and they will instantly become popular among people.
Keep your products secure
The best thing about eco-friendly packaging is that it can keep your products secure for a long time, especially food products. The sugarcane bags that we see in the retail stores are 100% recyclable, and if products are packed inside, they are meant to be secure. The paper mailers and shopping bags are also commonly used by many brands. It is an affordable and sustainable packaging design and is a good option for packing clothes too.