For a lot of people, being eco friendly is in, and sustainability is something that isn’t just a nice idea, it’s a must. There are now more designs than ever before that make your packaging look good, and not as awkward-looking. Here, we’ll go over some of the best eco friendly packaging trends for you to consider for your packaging services.
Minimalism is In
If you’re not already doing this, going minimalistic with paper and cardboard is one of the best ways to not only look ecofriendly, but also to save money.
If you use lightweight materials that are easy to recycle, that’s even better.
No Additives
It’s tempting to put stickers and fancy little additions on your packaging, but sometimes, plastic tape and stickers aren’t good, because they won’t be easily recycled. Consider trying to avoid this, and if you try to use stickers and tape, try to go for paper-based ones.
Compostable Mailers
If you have compostable mailers, then you’ll be in luck. This is great compared to the plastic poly bags that are out there. This is because they weigh practically nothing and reduce that overall problem that can happen if you've got too much going on. It also reduces the carbon footprint that’s there when it comes to shipping.
Plus, when someone tosses it, they can just break it down.
Plastic and Ink Substitutes
Now, it’s not like you have to wear off plastic packaging forever, but there are alternatives for you to use, PET substrates are one example, as they’re easier for one to recycle than other types of plastic.
As for inks, go for soy-based inks, instead of ones based on petroleum. Soy-based types of inks are far easier for someone to recycle, and are sustainability sourced, without the volatile organic compounds.
Have a smart Supply chain
If your supply chain is not correct, then fix this.
You should try to focus on paper, but it’s reasonably sourced, as this will help with reducing the usage of virgin pulp and contributing to the major deforestation process.
Don’t Use Plastic Packaging Peanuts
While packaging peanuts are great for cushioning, if you use them too much, they can harm the overall environment.
With more and more companies focusing on using some biodegradable packing peanuts made from wheat starch or corn, they’ll be able to break this down and focus on ensuring that you’re smart and sustainable.
Recycled vs. Recyclable
There is a difference between recycled and recyclable paper.
There is paper that you can get that’s made directly from virgin wood, so that’s fully able to be recyclable. Now recycled means that they are totally recycled and might not be virgin fibers, so it can be used and used again all the time.
Get FSC
You should try to go for the Forest Stewardship Council certified products, as they are paper items that come from a sustainable operation for timber.
While recycled materials are ideal for the environment, FSC certified cardboard and paper are great options for one to choose from.
Get =some Aqueous Coating
Aqueous coating is a material that’s water based, eliminating fingerprints and smudges directly to the packaging without messing with the reality, and also makes it VOC free and nontoxic too.
With all of these different means to ship out items, you’ll be able to reduce the environmental impact, and it will make it so much easier to transport. It also lowers the overall fossil fuels and saves you a ton of money in the long haul simplifying this, saving you a lot of money as well too.
