As consumers become more environmentally aware, eco-friendly packaging has become a priority for most businesses. Here a
As consumers become more environmentally aware, eco-friendly packaging has become a priority for most businesses. Here are some eco-friendly custom packaging ideas for your business:
Biodegradable materials: Consider using biodegradable materials such as paper, cardboard, or compostable or bioplastic. These materials decompose naturally and are relatively harmless to the environment. Using biodegradable packaging can help reduce the amount of plastic used and thrown out, ultimately minimizing littering issues related to using plastics. It can also be easier to dispose of, as businesses need to ensure that the type of packaging used for their products is easy to dispose of. Additionally, bioplastics, which are made from 20 percent or more of renewable materials, could be the solution to plastic pollution. The often-cited advantages of bioplastic are reduced use of fossil fuel resources, a smaller carbon footprint, and faster decomposition (source: State of the Planet).
Fun fact: Did you know that some companies are even using food waste, such as corn starch and potato peelings, to create biodegradable packaging? This not only helps reduce waste but also creates a closed-loop system, where waste is transformed into a valuable resource.
Recyclable materials: Paper and cardboard is now largely available with recycled content that is also recyclable. This material can be recycled into new products, reducing waste and conserving resources.
According to a McKinsey report, "Sustainability in Packaging: Inside the Minds of US Consumers," consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of the products they purchase, including the packaging. Consumers want packaging to be recyclable or to include higher levels of recycled content, and they expect more compostable packaging to be introduced.
According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, "The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the Future of Plastics," a circular economy approach that includes recycling and reusing materials could generate $1.8 trillion in economic benefits by 2030.
Recycling one ton of paper can save 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 463 gallons of oil (source: Recycling Revolution).
Reusable materials: Consider using reusable materials such as PP, cotton, or polyester for your custom packaging. These materials can be used multiple times and reduce the need for single-use packaging.
Fun fact: A single reusable bag can replace up to 700 disposable plastic bags over its lifetime (source: Earth Day Network).
Simplify designs: Use creative design alternatives that avoid unnecessary excess so that you use less material and reduce waste.
Sustainable printing: Use sustainable printing practices, such as soy or vegetable-based inks with aqueous (water-based) coatings on recycled paper for branding your custom packaging.
Green labeling: Add eco-friendly labels to your custom packaging like FSC or In The Bag’s Carbon Neutral certification to inform customers about the materials used, how they are being used, or how to dispose of them responsibly.
Compostable packaging: Compostable packaging is now being produced from materials such as corn starch or sugar cane, which can be composted and used as fertilizer for plants.
By incorporating eco-friendly packaging into your business, you can demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Not only does this help reduce your environmental impact, but it can strengthen your brand image and attract new customers who prioritize environmental practices.
Inthebag.com is a carbon neutral company that offers sustainable packaging solutions for businesses. In addition, inthebag.com is committed to offsetting its carbon emissions, making it a great choice for businesses that want to reduce their carbon footprint. Choose inthebag.com for your packaging needs and join the movement towards a more sustainable future.