Wondering What is the Best Eco-Friendly Packaging? Read This Blog!
If you look beyond the progressive side of industrial development, you can see its contribution to global climate change. Therefore, the change in industry needs and consumer preferences has been observed. Now, businesses and customers are getting more ecologically conscious. Businesses are opting for sustainable practices that have the least environmental impact.
One of the practices is the use of eco-friendly packaging. What makes packaging environment-friendly is the renewable source, biodegradability, and recyclability. In this blog, we have highlighted a few effective eco-friendly packaging options. Read on to explore what’s best for your business!
1. Paper-Based Packaging
It is one of the popular and best forms of packaging. As the name suggests, the base of this eco-friendly packaging is paper. The thickness of paper varies depending on the type of packaging. E-commerce is one of the biggest drivers behind the significant growth and demand for paper packaging. What makes paper-based packaging eco-friendly is its renewable source which is wood. The following are some widely used types of paper-based packaging:
● Kraft Paper
Eco-friendly Kraft paper packaging boxes are strong, flexible, and environmentally friendly. They can be formed into different shapes and sizes. Eco-friendly Kraft paper packaging boxes, along with Kraft bags, Kraft crockery, and Kraft wrapping papers, are extensively used, especially in the food industry, due to their food-safe properties and 100% biodegradability. What makes Kraft packaging unique is its natural rustic charm and ability to be customized in many ways.
● Cardboard
Another excellent type of paper-based packaging is cardboard packaging. It is made from paper fibers which makes it an eco-friendly option. Cardboard has flexibility that can help you customize it in different shapes, sizes, and styles such as folding cartons, cardboard boxes, shopping bags, stickers, and labels.
● Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated cardboard is made by joining multiple layers of kraft paper and E-flute. The sturdy construction and use of eco-friendly materials make corrugated packaging environment-friendly and strong. It is mostly used in the form of shipping boxes, e-commerce product boxes, and retail display boxes.
2. Plant-Based Packaging
The technology innovation has helped various businesses to avail themselves of the benefits of plant-based packaging. These types of packaging are sourced from plants using different technologies, posing no threat to the environment. The following are a few excellent examples of plant-based packaging that are proven to be eco-friendly:
● Bio-Plastic
The negative impact of conventional plastic has emerged and the need for its discontinuation. However, it is still being used due to some of its characteristics. The plant-based plastic has been introduced as an alternative to traditional plastic. Bio-plastic is made from sources such as fermented plant starch of corn, sugarcane, and bamboo plants. It is transparent in color, eco-friendly, and has similar protective properties to conventional plastic.
● Mushroom Mycelium
This type of plant-based packaging is sourced from the root part of the mushroom plant( mycelium) and hemp hurd. It is often called mycelium packaging which is also best known for its water-resistant, home composting, and chemical-free properties. The process of making this packaging includes cleanliness of agricultural waste and substrate preparation which goes into the molding process to make the desired shapes of the packaging.
● Sugarcane Bagasse
Another remarkable form of plant-based packaging is made from sugarcane. It is made from the fibrous part of sugarcane which is leftover (bagasse) when the juice is completely extracted from sugarcane. Sugarcane packaging is mostly used for making food packaging due to its food-safe properties. It is also the best alternative for paper-based packaging to prevent deforestation for a greener planet.
You can also consider using plant-based packaging made from coconut husk and seaweed to show your dedication towards the environment. Moreover, implement some effective strategies when customizing plant-based packaging such as life cycle assessment, functional testing, and consumer education and awareness.
3. Eco-friendly Stickers and Tapes
Packaging refers to everything that is used for packing products. When you look for eco-friendly packaging solutions, you should also consider tapes and stickers that are made from renewable sources. The paper stickers made from kraft paper are considered the most eco-friendly. They can also be made from cardboard paper. You can also consider using water-activated adhesive tapes sourced from plant-based starch.
4. Innovative Edible Packaging
Edible packaging is impressive and eco-friendly. As the name depicts, this packaging can be consumed as it is made from food-grade materials. The source of edible packaging is a few plant-based materials such as seaweed, algae, casein, and rice paper. Casein is a film made from milk protein that helps keep food safe from oxidation and contamination. One of the best examples of edible packaging is straws made from different vegetables and fruits. Coconut and rice straws are safe to eat.
5. Water Soluble PVA Packaging
This packaging is an excellent example of packaging advancement. Water-soluble packaging breaks down by dissolving in water, reducing environmental impact. It is made from materials that can be dissolved in the water such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) which is an odorless substance. Water-soluble packaging looks like a film that can be wrapped around food items and can be used as food. You need to put it into the boiling water and break it down.
Candle Boxes: A Sustainable Choice for Eco-Conscious Consumers
When it comes to candle packaging, the demand for eco-friendly options is on the rise. Luxury candle gift box designs are an excellent choice for those seeking to align their products with sustainable practices. These boxes, often crafted from recycled or recyclable materials, not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of candles but also cater to environmentally conscious consumers. Customizable in various shapes and sizes, eco-friendly candle boxes provide robust protection for delicate candles while minimizing environmental impact. By opting for biodegradable inks and sustainable materials like kraft paper or corrugated cardboard, businesses can ensure their candle packaging complements their commitment to sustainability. This approach not only supports eco-friendly initiatives but also appeals to a growing market of consumers who value green practices.
What is the Best Eco-Friendly Packaging?
The answer to this question is that the best eco-friendly packaging is the one that aligns with your product and branding needs. You can choose from biodegradable packing tapes, compostable plant-based packaging, poly mailers made from bioplastic, and paper-based packaging such as kraft paper.
Packaging that offers protection, visual appeal, eco-friendliness, and branding benefits can be an ideal choice when choosing the best packaging.
Conclusion
Various factors play a part in deciding the best eco-friendly packaging from the above-mentioned packaging options. These factors include the nature of your products, budget, branding needs, product protection, shipping, and storage. However, you can also choose each of the described eco-friendly packaging for your variety of different products. The need for eco-friendly packaging shows its higher demand in future as well. Consider eco-friendly packaging for your products and experience a noticeable difference in your business!
