The global sustainability movement is reshaping the business landscape. Consumers worldwide, including those in the United States, Germany, Italy, Brazil, India, and Indonesia, express significant concern about the environmental impact of product packaging.
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Businesses seeking to meet customer expectations and contribute to a greener future should prioritize sustainable packaging practices. It includes partnering with a reputable sustainable packaging company that can provide eco-friendly solutions.
Choosing sustainable materials for packaging minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and can attract loyal customers. Strategies include compostable and recyclable materials while reducing reliance on fossil fuel-derived resources and processes.
This comprehensive guide helps businesses understand why sustainable packaging is important and choose suitable options that align with their values and industry requirements.
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Sustainable packaging involves choosing eco-friendly materials and production practices throughout the packaging lifecycle. It entails selecting renewable, recyclable, and compostable materials while minimizing environmental impact through optimized production processes.
For instance, biodegradable materials such as bioplastics, derived from renewable resources, offer a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. These materials can naturally break down over time, reducing their environmental impact and minimizing waste accumulation.
Using recycled and recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic also diminishes the demand for virgin resources and decreases waste generation.
Meanwhile, the demand for sustainable packaging is increasing, with over 60% of global customers considering the environmental impact when purchasing.
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According to a recent report, sustainability-marketed products in the consumer packaged goods industry grew rapidly, outpacing conventional products and accounting for 17.3% of purchases in 2022.
To guide businesses in achieving sustainable packaging, the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) has put forward eight critical criteria:
Sustainable packaging should prioritize the safety of individuals and communities throughout its lifecycle. It should promote economic development and social well-being by easing the distribution and delivery of products.
After its useful life, the subsequent waste should be manageable at the community level. Intelligent packaging design plays a crucial role in mitigating potential adverse environmental impacts.
Sustainable packaging minimizes costs through efficient and safe lifecycle design and sourcing. This process involves improved design practices, resource optimization, learned material selection, design for recovery, and source reduction.
Companies should utilize sourcing, manufacturing, transporting, and recycling packaging materials using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, tidal, and geothermal power.
Transportation should prioritize hybrid vehicles or alternative fuel options such as biodiesel, electricity, and ethanol. Optimal energy efficiency fosters sustainability while generating positive economic and environmental outcomes.
Materials should be recoverable through biological or industrial processes to achieve sustainable packaging and compatibility with new production systems. Using recycled, bio-based, or renewable materials from well-managed sources promotes sustainable material flow and resource conservation.
The creation of packaging materials should support clean technology and eco-efficient practices. Conserving resources, eliminating toxic materials, and reducing emissions and waste during production are vital strategies to minimize environmental impact.
Adhering to best practice standards enhances manufacturing performance while reducing costs and improving long-term profitability.
Packaging materials should not contain chemicals that release harmful substances throughout their lifecycle. Even slight amounts of these compounds can have significant consequences due to the scale and volume of packaging and associated wastes.
Ensure all chemical ingredients, including additives, inks, adhesives, and coatings, are safe for humans and the environment, minimizing or eliminating associated hazards.
Effective, sustainable packaging begins with informed material selection and a thorough understanding of performance requirements. It includes considering energy use during the package’s lifecycle, assessing the impact of materials in various end-of-life scenarios, and designing for effective material recovery.
Companies should optimize packaging materials to minimize waste and maximize materials and energy usage throughout the product’s lifecycle, starting from the early design phase.
Closed-loop systems are essential for producing new items from material waste. Businesses should manufacture packaging materials in organic and closed-loop cycles, promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource utilization.
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The adoption of sustainable packaging brings numerous environmental and social benefits to businesses. By embracing sustainable packaging practices, various organizations can contribute to a greener future while reaping various business advantages.
Sustainable packaging aids in minimizing carbon emissions by utilizing eco-friendly materials and implementing energy-efficient production processes. This proactive approach significantly reduces environmental impact and helps combat climate change.
For instance, selecting lightweight, biodegradable materials lower transportation emissions, while adopting renewable energy in manufacturing reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Embracing sustainable packaging demonstrates environmental responsibility, fostering a positive brand image and attracting environmentally conscious customers for increased loyalty and market share.
Sustainable packaging strategies contribute to waste reduction and efficient resource utilization. Businesses can minimize waste generation and promote a circular economy by employing recyclable, compostable, or recycled-content materials.
Optimal packaging designs that use fewer materials and innovative approaches, such as refillable or reusable packaging, further support resource conservation.
Sustainable packaging initiatives extend beyond the environment and have broader social implications. They foster social responsibility by promoting fair trade practices, supporting local economies, and ensuring responsible production methods.
For instance, businesses that source packaging materials from local suppliers contribute to community development and upliftment. Sustainable packaging also prioritizes the well-being of workers throughout the supply chain by advocating for safe and fair working conditions.
Adopting sustainable packaging practices ensures compliance with evolving environmental regulations and positions businesses for future regulatory requirements. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter rules to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainability.
Proactively choosing sustainable packaging helps businesses stay ahead of regulatory changes, mitigating potential penalties or market restrictions.
Sustainable packaging strategies can lead to cost savings and operational efficiencies. Lightweight packaging materials reduce transportation costs, while optimized designs maximize storage and shelf space utilization.
Incorporating eco-efficient manufacturing processes and energy-saving technologies can lower operational expenses. Businesses can redirect these cost savings towards innovation, enhancing customer experiences, or further sustainability initiatives.
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To reduce environmental impact and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly products, businesses must prioritize using sustainable packaging materials. Here are some key sustainable packaging materials, their characteristics, benefits, and real-life examples.
Bioplastics are packaging materials from renewable sources such as plant starches or biomass. They offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics, as they can biodegrade under certain conditions.
Examples include polylactic acid (PLA) from cornstarch and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) derived from plant oils.
Manufacturers derive these materials from renewable resources, such as plants or agricultural waste. They offer reduced environmental impact compared to materials derived from fossil fuels.
Examples are packaging made from sugarcane bagasse, wheat straw, or bamboo fibers.
Packaging products made from recycled paper fibers help conserve forests, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste generation. Companies use them for various applications, such as boxes, bags, and labels.
Composed of recycled paper fibers, cardboard is a versatile and recyclable packaging material for various consumer products, including shipping boxes, displays, and cartons.
Glass packaging is highly recyclable and reusable. By choosing glass containers, businesses contribute to resource conservation, as they can recycle glass indefinitely without losing quality. Examples include glass bottles and jars for beverages, cosmetics, and food products.
Metals such as aluminum and steel are easily recyclable and highly durable, making them suitable for packaging applications. Using recycled metal reduces the demand for new raw materials and helps conserve resources.
Metal cans, aerosol containers, and aluminum foil are common examples.
Certain types of plastic, particularly those marked with recycling codes, can be recycled and transformed into new products. Using recycled plastic helps divert waste from landfills and reduces the need for virgin plastic production.
Some recyclable plastic items include plastic bottles, containers, and films.
Derived from renewable resources such as corn or sugarcane, plant-based plastics offer a compostable alternative to traditional plastics. These materials have a reduced carbon footprint and can break down into natural elements under proper composting conditions.
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Made from organic materials such as cellulose, bagasse, or biodegradable polymers, compostable packaging provides a sustainable end-of-life solution. These materials can fully biodegrade in composting facilities, minimizing environmental impact.
Inventions made by some companies are compostable food containers, coffee cups, and cutlery.
Bamboo-based packaging offers a renewable and biodegradable option. Sturdy and versatile, bamboo finds use in various packaging applications, such as boxes, trays, and utensils.
Using mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, this innovative material can be molded into various shapes and provides a fully compostable packaging solution. Mushroom-based packaging offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional foam or plastic cushioning materials.
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Brands can incorporate eco-friendliness into packaging operations and production through various approaches. Some strategies are:
One can educate consumers about recycling best practices by incorporating a general label on the product, featuring a recycling icon alongside the terms “reusable” or “recyclable.”
Encouraging the buyers to recycle the product and emphasizing the environmental significance of recycling is beneficial. Social media campaigns can also raise awareness about proper recycling practices.
When selecting packaging materials such as boxes, containers, or mailers, selecting recycled packaging materials is advisable. These materials contribute to sustainability by extending the lifespan of previously used items.
Commonly recycled packaging materials include unbleached paperboard and kraft paper derived from wood fibers or recycled waste paper.
Brands can incorporate recycled plastic materials, such as bottles and single-use bags, into mailers and containers, reintroducing them into the supply chain.
Plant-based packaging materials from seaweed, corn, mushrooms, and food waste offer sustainable alternatives. The suitability of specific packaging options depends on the product requirements.
For instance, bioplastics derived from cornstarch and mushrooms offer durable plant-based packaging solutions that protect food products during shipping without affecting their flavor.
Wash-off labels comprise multiple layers, including a wash-off adhesive, polypropylene film, and polyethylene terephthalate liner. When organizations remove these prime labels, the glue and ink remain, preventing water pollution during washing.
Brands must carefully choose the adhesives used in labels, selecting compostable materials to align with sustainability goals. Non-compostable adhesives can contaminate compost, while non-recyclable ones may cause damage during recycling.
The product manager must carefully select adhesives based on the packaging materials and specific product requirements, particularly for food and beverage items exposed to varying temperatures and moisture.
Incorporating packaging alternatives that facilitate composting and biodegradability strengthens sustainability efforts.
Compostable packaging from materials consumers can compost at home and commercially, often derived from plant-based polymers, provides a sustainable packaging solution. Such materials break down in compost, contributing to the reduction of waste and environmental impact.
Collaborating with sustainable packaging manufacturers that prioritize sustainability reinforces eco-friendly strategies and techniques.
Before finalizing supplier agreements, one must inquire about the product packaging manufacturer’s processes and practices. Partnering with companies that value sustainability helps align sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.
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In today’s dynamic market, integrating sustainability into your business strategy is not just a trend—it’s a crucial factor in building brand value and driving long-term profitability.
At Meyers, we are committed to sustainable packaging and minimizing environmental impact. As industry experts, we partner with businesses such as yours to provide innovative packaging solutions that align with your sustainability initiatives and reduce your ecological footprint.
Our packaging solutions surpass regulations and enable you to actively reduce waste, conserve resources, and enhance your brand’s eco-conscious reputation.
Contact us today to learn more and explore how our expertise can help shape your brand’s brighter, more sustainable future, one package at a time.
Scientists around the world agree that the planet’s climate requires immediate action to avert catastrophe. Recently, the Breakthrough National Centre for Climate Restoration in Melbourne, Australia, estimated that a “near- to mid-term existential threat to human civilization” could take place in the next 30 years if the issue isn’t addressed. According to a survey by The Economist, consumers believe that brands have as much responsibility as governments to create positive environmental change. [Related: What Is Corporate Social Responsibility?]
Over the past five years, there has been a 71% rise in online searches for sustainable goods globally, according to The Economist Intelligence Unit. Consumers are engaging with sustainable businesses in ways that they previously ignored. This trend isn’t just in first-world countries. Consumer satisfaction in developing and emerging economies is also tied to concerns around climate change, and many want businesses to commit to protecting nature and natural systems. Learn from companies like PayPal that prioritize social responsibility, setting an example for employees and customers.
According to a survey from McKinsey & Co., 66% of all respondents and 75% of millennial respondents say that they consider sustainability when they make a purchase. Customers now align themselves with brands that are compatible with their values and priorities. With environmental stability as a high priority for many people, it’s important that businesses do their part to lower their carbon footprint.
While the data suggests that more consumers form relationships with brands that pay attention to their products’ environmental impact, researchers at Accenture were quick to point out that affordability and quality were still the main driving factors behind a vast majority of purchases.
Among the respondents, 89% said they cared the most about the quality of a product when choosing a product to buy, with price coming in at 84%. While consumers are right to consider the financial impact of a product, researchers said 49% cited health and safety and 37% cited environmental impact as factors they consider before purchase.
Furthermore, researchers said 72% of respondents reported that they were actively buying more environmentally friendly products than they did five years ago, while 81% said they expected to buy even more over the next five years.
“The shift in consumer buying, with more consumers willing to pay extra for environmentally friendly products, reinforces the need for companies to increase their commitments to responsible business practices,” said Jessica Long, managing director of strategy and sustainability at Accenture. “Companies across industries have started to lead with purpose, including embracing the circular economy as a greater opportunity to drive growth and competitive agility.”
Key Takeaway
Key takeawayMany customers are willing to pay more for sustainable products with high-quality, environmentally friendly packaging.
In addition to consumers’ growing awareness of how their products are packaged, the survey’s findings show that people are paying attention to the global climate crisis.
Approximately 1 in 4 respondents – 26% – said they believe that of the nine industries included in the survey, the chemical industry is the least worried about its environmental impact. Participants also ranked the chemical industry lowest in terms of communicating how its products affect the environment, with 72% stating they were “not very confident or not confident at all.”
The chemical industry is considered a major driver of recycled and reusable materials around the world. Plastics, widely thought to be a major global pollutant, are manufactured by some of the chemical industry’s biggest companies. We’ve outlined a number of eco-friendly business ideas for entrepreneurs.
“While some of the survey results are encouraging, there are also implications for chemical companies, including the need to overcome negative consumer sentiment and to produce sustainable materials at a competitive price,” said Rachael Bartels, a senior managing director at Accenture who leads its chemicals and natural resources practice. “The chemical industry is a critical enabler to the circular economy and can speed up its adoption, and the reality is the industry must get in front of this now, or risk being left behind.”
Asked which of the packaging materials widely used today is the least environmentally friendly, 77% of respondents said plastic. Paper was considered the most environmentally friendly by 55% of participants.
If the chemical industry can rise to the challenge, American Chemistry Council (ACC) officials estimate that the recyclable nature of plastics could create 38,500 new jobs and add billions of dollars to the U.S. economy. It could do that, ACC said, by “expanding the use of pyrolysis and other advanced plastic recycling technologies.”
Consumers are generally interested in doing what they can to live more sustainably and expect businesses to play a part in that. While many consumers actively seek out brands and businesses that align with their values, they’re also willing to switch products or companies when something violates their ethics. Consumers are also willing to be outspoken about these transgressions in public forums. Many take to social media to address their concerns and complaints, and some are willing to protest companies at their physical locations. It becomes bad business for companies to ignore the values and concerns of the most loyal and active customers, as they could face a decline in sales and PR backlash. [Related: How to Drive More Sales]
Sustainably sourced goods also create an opportunity for profit. In the United Kingdom, the market for these products was worth £41 billion (about $56 billion) in 2019. In India, sales of organic and sustainable products have increased by 13% since 2018.
Key Takeaway
Key takeawayConsumers are more attracted to brands with sustainable practices and products – and those businesses turn a profit.
Industries and companies are listening to their consumers about what they want. Over 50% of C-level executives in the fashion and textile industry have claimed that consumer demand is driving their brands to create sustainable products and best practices. Many of these companies have been sourcing sustainably produced raw materials to create their apparel.
The trend of sourcing organic and sustainable materials has also been seen in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors. These industries have been making a concerted effort to use sustainable materials. Consumers have the ability to drive entire industries to change, and the benefit for those companies is that they have a positive increase on their market sector.
Sean Peek contributed to the writing and reporting in this article.
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