Calls for eco-conscious packaging are loud and clear as more people demand sustainable options for goods. Manufacturers can do their part in creating and utilizing recyclable, biodegradable and reusable packaging materials, taking into account the life cycle at every stage. These considerations are ideal for a more environmentally friendly sector.
The packaging sector isn’t exactly recognized as being the most sustainable. However, with e-commerce and consumerism rapidly progressing, eco-conscious packaging solutions are necessary. Here’s how packaging is contributing to the waste crisis and ways to consider its life cycle throughout every use stage.
Packaging’s End-of-Life Crisis
The packaging life cycle has many phases, from extracting raw materials to manufacturing to its end-of-life destination. Where does a product’s packaging go when you discard it?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 82.2 million metric tons of packaging waste — particularly corrugated boxes — went to landfills in 2018. Plastics are other packaging materials commonly found in garbage facilities.
Recycling is part of the problem, as there are few incentives, policies and resources to encourage people to dispose of containers, boxes and paper packaging waste properly. Some municipalities have even discontinued recycling services because of budgetary constraints.
However, 80% of consumers are eager to purchase goods from eco-friendly brands, especially those supporting greener behaviors on an individual level. Therefore, businesses should hone in on eco-friendly packaging to improve their bottom line and decrease environmental impact.
Packaging waste makes up one-third of what is delivered to landfills each year
How to Make Packaging More Eco-Conscious
Sustainable packaging is a significant component of companies’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. It helps consumers reduce waste as companies rely on fewer materials and biodegradable alternatives. Here’s how to make packaging more sustainable at the start of its life cycle.
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Use Eco-Friendly Materials
The most eco-conscious packaging materials are recyclable or biodegradable. For instance, consumers can recycle glass or plastic jars or send a package to someone using a shipping box from previously received mail. Other materials may be compostable, breaking down within a specific time frame and used as organic soil.
However, these materials must also be free of dyes and harmful toxins to remain environmentally friendly. For example, cornstarch packages are 30% more durable than plastic bags and fully biodegradable, unlike plastic materials made from petroleum sources.
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Avoid Unnecessary Packaging
The rise of e-commerce in recent years has made retailers more committed than ever to limit unnecessary packaging. Amazon has successfully eliminated 95% of plastic air pillows from its packaging in the United States, allowing it to avoid using 15 billion annually. It will not use air pillows in its Prime Day packages in 2024.
Companies and consumers should also commit to using less manufacturer packaging. Why buy individually plastic-wrapped potatoes or already-peeled oranges in plastic containers when you can buy them without?
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Opt for Smaller Containers
Using smaller packaging materials to fit the product is better than shipping it in an oversized box. Likewise, smaller items do not need large manufacturer boxes.
Have you ever opened a product box for a new cellphone? It’s usually much bigger than needed, with an oversized plastic container holding the phone in place. It would be better to ship it in a smaller plastic holder to reduce the amount of materials required.
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Optimize the Supply Chain for Sustainability
Companies should work with supply chain vendors with similar ESG goals for eco-conscious packaging. However, establishing partnerships with environmentally friendly suppliers starts with transparent communication. How can you align your goals and initiatives to embrace sustainability?
Some companies, such as those that use custom roll forming for the solar industry, may have a robust ability to adhere to any sustainability and environmental efforts you care for.
Seek ways to collaborate and implement eco-friendly practices, including minimizing packaging waste and transportation-related greenhouse gases. For instance, package designs should vary in size and shape to maximize space and limit shipment needs. Meanwhile, working closely with local suppliers cuts costs and lowers long-distance shipping emissions.
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Reuse Packaging
Renewed interest in reusable packaging has sparked exploration into its feasibility. According to McKinsey’s reporting, the costs of handling and logistics, rotation emissions — packaging will need at least 20 rotations to make a difference in emissions reductions — and societal implications could hinder more widespread adoption.
Many sectors can benefit from reusability schemes, particularly the food and beverage industry. However, consumers must also adapt their behaviors for it to become an eco-conscious life cycle solution.
Sustainable Product Life Cycles One Box at a Time
Shipping and packaging are crucial in product sustainability, and the materials used must be carefully considered to ensure a healthier planet and less waste. Companies should develop more eco-conscious solutions while consumers commit to wiser buying decisions with fewer plastics and containers.
