How To Balance Growth and Need for Sustainability in Packaging

PackageIt Team • November 8, 2023

The rise of e-commerce and online shopping has increased packaging waste that can harm our environment. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing need for companies to balance their growth with sustainable practices in packaging.

The Sustainability Movement in Packaging

Sustainability in packaging is designing, producing, and using packaging materials that minimize their environmental impact. This practice includes reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing the carbon footprint of shipping and packaging supplies. The sustainability movement in packaging has gained momentum as consumers and businesses alike recognize the importance of reducing their environmental footprint.

The key drivers behind this movement are increasing awareness of climate change, the increased understanding of environmental degradation, and the desire to create a healthier planet for future generations. As a result, companies have begun to prioritize sustainability in their packaging and shipping practices.

Current Regulations

Governments and regulatory bodies around the world have responded to the call for sustainability by implementing various regulations to control packaging waste and promote eco-friendly alternatives. These regulations include extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, restrictions on single-use plastics, and recycling mandates.

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set laws, executive orders, and regulations to protect human health and the environment. These regulations include the National Recycling Strategy, which aims to improve recycling rates and reduce contamination in recycling streams.

For businesses, these regulations mean adhering to strict standards and taking responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their packaging materials. Non-compliance can lead to fines and damage to a company’s reputation, so businesses must stay informed and adopt sustainable packaging solutions to meet these regulatory requirements.

Post-COVID Trends

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on consumer behavior, including affecting trends in packaging. It accelerated the shift toward e-commerce, which, in turn, increased the demand for packaging materials. In a 2020 survey, 60% to 70% of consumers would pay more for eco-friendly packaging, showing a clear direction for sustainable options. Additionally, the surge in online shopping during lockdowns led to an even greater need for sustainable packaging solutions.

Moreover, the pandemic highlighted the importance of supply chain resilience and efficient, sustainable packaging to minimize waste and reduce carbon emissions. As we move forward in a post-COVID world, these trends will likely persist, making sustainability in packaging a long-term priority for businesses.

What Customers Want

Customer expectations are a driving force behind the sustainability movement in packaging. Modern consumers are more eco-conscious and make purchasing decisions based on a company’s commitment to sustainability.

A 2023 survey determined what consumers perceive as sustainable packaging. The top three types of packaging that customers identified as eco-friendly were:

Compostable packaging
Plant-based packaging
Plastic films made out of renewable raw materials that can be compostable

Other types of sustainable packaging include paper-based cartons, fully recyclable plastic, and glass bottles and jars.

Consumers expect businesses to have options and use recyclable, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly packaging materials. Meeting these expectations is not only good for the planet but also for a company’s bottom line. It can enhance brand reputation, customer loyalty, and profitability.

What Sustainable Products Look Like

Sustainable packaging products are designed to minimize environmental impact while fulfilling their primary function of protecting products during transportation. Here are some examples of sustainable packaging products available at PackageIt:

Recyclable Paper Mailers: Our Ecojacket® and Evertec® mailers are made from paper that can be easily recycled. They are a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic mailers.
Biodegradable Loose Fill: Our 100% compostable loose fill is made from corn starch and dissolves in water, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging peanuts.
Cellulose Wadding: This eco-friendly packaging material is made from 100% recycled paper and is an excellent cushioning material for fragile items.
Thermal Insulation Packing: Our ThermaCycle® Flex helps maintain product integrity during transit while being eco-friendly for temperature-sensitive shipping.
Water-Activated Tape: Our water-activated tape is fully recyclable, providing a strong seal while reducing environmental impact.

These are just a few examples of how companies can embrace sustainability in packaging without compromising the quality and safety of their products.

Use PackageIt’s Sustainable Solutions

Achieving a balance between growth and sustainability is essential in packaging and shipping. PackageIt is your partner in this endeavor, offering a wide range of sustainable packaging solutions to help your company meet its growth needs while minimizing its environmental footprint.

At PackageIt, our dedicated experts can help your business by tailoring sustainable packaging solutions to your unique needs. We can help ensure that your products reach your customers safely and that your company contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

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