One of the primary goals of sustainability is to protect the environment and keep the ecosystems balanced. There are several ways to safeguard the environment. One of them is through sustainable packaging.
When we think of sustainable packaging, we usually label it as “green” or “eco-friendly.” However, it could also mean non-toxic, recyclable, refillable, or degradable. It could mean a combination of all or some of them.
Sustainable Packaging and What it Means
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How do we find out certain packaging meets the sustainability criteria? According to the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, sustainable packaging include these characteristics:
- Made with recycled or recovered materials.
- Reduces carbon emissions
- Made with materials that stay healthy all throughout.
- Produced or manufactured using a technology that optimizes energy.
Other organizations such as the ISO, CEN and Consumer Goods Forum have their own standards. Nothing is still set in stone as to what really constitutes sustainable packaging. However, there are guidelines to be followed.
The 3 Rs of Sustainability
Sustainability is synonymous with these 3 Rs. Take these three to heart:
Reduce – Avoid using plastics at all costs as it takes several years for plastic to decompose. Never use materials that are harmful to the environment.
Reuse – Reusing materials are immensely cost-effective. You are also helping the environment with this. As much as possible, reuse boxes and make them durable to carry more products.
Recycle – There are a lot of products in the market that is made with recycled materials. You can do the same with the packaging.
Benefits of Sustainable Packaging
Most companies have switched to practicing sustainability as it’s cost-effective and they are also helping the environment. Here are some of the benefits of sustainable packaging:
1. You are free of harmful chemicals, toxins and allergens
This goes both ways. Allergens or toxins-free packaging is good for the consumers’ well-being and health. At the same time, the company can also benefit from it. Consumers are more likely to choose packaging that will not harm them.
2. Reduces carbon footprint
You can help the environment when you switch to having lightweight materials. Doing this can positively impact the carbon footprint.
3. You can save space and have more storage
When you practice being sustainable, chances are you will be more resourceful. You will find creative ways to be efficient especially when it comes to the materials that you use when packaging. Your goal would be to ship more products and use less packaging.
This means you will be able to also cut down on your transport costs. Also, with smaller packages, you can make room for more products in your facility. You can also use the available space for your other projects.
4. It is cost-effective
The goal for every business is to gain more profit and save on all the costs involved. By using eco-friendly products, you can greatly save money on your shipping costs and other expenses. Even when it comes to buying labels for your packages, you can get eco-friendly products from enKo (an online store that sells Cheap Zebra, Dymo & Avery Compatible labels online)
You are also helping the environment at the same time.
5. Improves your company’s image
Practicing sustainable packaging creates a good impression. It means that you care about the impact that you make on the environment. Also, most consumers nowadays prefer companies who contribute to sustainability not just in their packaging but with their initiatives too.
6. The packaging is extremely flexible and versatile
When it’s eco-friendly it means you can reuse it so many times and repurpose it even. You can maximize resources and save on costs at the same time. Whatever you are selling, there are eco-friendly ways to package them.
Start Using Sustainable Packaging
If you have already started practicing sustainability, congratulations! Otherwise, it’s never too late to make a good impact on the environment and become a role model.
Start by having sustainable packaging as part of your initiative in helping out the environment. Several can benefit from this, not just the company but the consumers as well.
When more companies start practicing sustainability, others will surely follow.
A Sustainable Future
Practicing sustainable packaging is a start to a better future. This may not greatly and directly impact the environment, but when several companies practice this, it will be extremely helpful.
Should you ever decide on an environment-friendly initiative, start by practicing sustainable packaging.