Sustainability in Packaging and Supplies

Here, we’re taking a deep dive into the importance of sustainability in packaging and supplies. After reading this article, you’ll be more than ready to make the sustainable switch.  

What Does Sustainability in Packaging and Supplies Look Like?  

We’ve heard all the talk about making sustainable choices in our businesses. However, few will tell you how sustainable choices pan out in your operations.  

In other words, you need to ask: “What does sustainability even mean, especially when it comes to selecting packaging materials?” 

Minimal Resource Use in Your Packaging’s Design 

First, let’s talk about resource inputs.  

Any packaging material designed for sustainability must be produced with the least amount of resources possible. When this happens, less waste ends up in landfills. Often, there’s also likely to be lower energy usage throughout your supply chain.  

Biodegradable and No Fluff

Green Design Without Compromising Durability 

Sustainable packaging materials must consist of the least number of resources and, as much as possible, be made of non-toxic materials. At the same time, it should still be durable enough to meet your practical needs.  

After all, protecting your product, keeping costs manageable, and supporting an efficient operation are all non-negotiable.  

Let’s not forget that flimsy packaging ends up in landfills and adds to the growing amount of waste.  

How Sustainable Packaging Impacts Your Operations 

We know what sustainability in packaging and supplies looks like, but what can it do for you and your operations?  

Believe it or not, there’s a laundry list of benefits you can look forward to when you choose sustainable packaging.  

From keeping your products in peak condition to scoring popularity points with eco-friendly customers, here are some ways sustainability makes your operation leaner, more agile, and better equipped to meet the demands of your customers. 

Lighter and More Compact Footprints Lead to Reduced Shipping Costs 

Let’s start with shipping.  

As carriers move toward greener practices, they’re also becoming more cost-conscious. These days, weight and volume are critical factors for determining your shipping rates.  

When your packaging is right-sized and lightweight, you automatically reduce shipping costs. In fact, you’ll be able to reduce your shipping costs by as much as 20%.  

That leaves you with savings; with it, you can reinvest in your business or use it to offer better rates to your customers. 

Savings on Storage and Warehousing 

Did you know warehouse operations can also benefit from a sustainable approach?  

Remember that small-footprint packaging allows you to maximize space, which can lower your storage fees and improve inventory management. When using eco-friendly materials that are easier to break down or recycle, clean-up becomes quicker, and waste disposal is simplified. 

Sizing down packaging may be a small change. While it is, it’s one of the simplest ways to slash costs while doing your part for a greener world.  

That’s a win-win, in our book.  

Satisfaction Among Your Eco-Friendly Consumers 

There aren’t many ways to position yourself as a brand that cares about the planet. However, one of the best ways to do it is with sustainability in packaging and supplies.  

Today’s buyers are savvy. Besides the price and product, they also care about who they’re buying from and how those businesses treat the planet.  

If your packaging reflects your commitment to sustainability, it sends a strong message. It’s a sign that you’re thoughtful, forward-looking, and aligned with eco-friendly values. 

In a competitive market, that could be the deciding factor in whether they hit the “Buy Now” button or not. 

Packaging Supplies and Materials That Make the Cut 

When it comes to sustainable packaging, not all materials are created equal. That’s why at PackageIt, we help our clients think critically about every component of their packaging, from the box to the tape and everything in between. 

Are you making a sustainable switch? Here are some of the packaging materials that are worth a place in your selection list.  

Biodegradable Packaging 

When searching for sustainable options, you can’t go wrong with biodegradable packaging materials and supplies.  

Reused and recyclable boxes often make the cut. Made from post-consumer recycled paper, they’re just as durable as new materials but have a smaller environmental footprint.  

There’s more to sustainable packaging than cardboard boxes. At PackageIt, we’re seeing our clients shift toward biodegradable plastics, compostable mailers, and plant-based alternatives that break down more easily in the environment. 

These are alternative materials that are go-tos for various types of packages but provide the same sustainability as recycled boxes do. 

Recyclable Corrugated Cardboard Boxes 

Of course, sustainable doesn’t have to mean flimsy. In fact, in many cases, eco-friendly packaging offers better protection. Corrugated cardboard, for example, is not only recyclable but also provides excellent cushioning and support for your products during transit. 

Reusable Packaging 

Another area worth exploring is reusable packaging. Reusable packaging helps minimize waste while ensuring your products get from point A to point B safely.  

There are several ways to incorporate these sustainable packaging options into your business. If your business model allows it (such as in subscription services or local deliveries), you can encourage your customers to return and reuse packaging for future shipments.  

Not only does this reduce waste, but it also helps you build a closer relationship with your customers. Just don’t forget to throw in perks like a discount on the next purchase to keep your customers incentivized.  

The Elephant in the Room: Balancing Waste Reduction and Quality 

For many business owners, there’s a tricky balancing act between choosing sustainable packaging and selecting durable (but potentially non-biodegradable) supplies. Sustainability and quality are often at odds, resulting in many businesses making compromises. 

Luckily, if you plan your shipping materials carefully, the same doesn’t need to happen to you. We’re here to do that for you. 

Packaging Material Recommendations Based on Your Needs 

At PackageIt, we take the time to understand your product’s shape, size, and fragility before recommending a sustainable solution.  

For example, double-wall corrugated cardboard with sustainable void fill may be best for a mechanical part. Meanwhile, we might recommend a lightweight, compostable poly mailer with minimal filler for a boutique clothing item. 

Sealing the Deal Sustainably 

Even the way you seal your packages can be upgraded. We offer a wide range of packaging tapes that are recyclable and more secure than plastic tape. 

This means fewer openings in transit and fewer damaged returns — that’s sustainability and quality rolled into one. 

Added Perk: Customizability 

Yes, you have sustainability goals, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore your branding. Whether choosing our boxes or mailers, you can customize your packaging to showcase your brand identity.   

This way, your brand gets the recognition it deserves — and it gets remembered as the brand that went the extra mile for Mother Earth.   

Make the Sustainable Switch 

When you think about sustainability in packaging and supplies, it’s easy to focus on the obvious things — recycled boxes, compostable fillers, and biodegradable bags.  

Here’s the bigger picture: sustainability in packaging and supplies enables you to create a supply chain that’s smarter, more efficient, and more resilient.  

The next time you’re on the fence about choosing eco-friendly packaging materials, remember that you’re helping yourself, your supply chain, the planet, and your customers.  

What forward-thinking brand doesn’t want that?  

Make the sustainable switch today. Contact us for a free quote on our sustainable packaging materials and supplies.