A Guide To Sustainable Containers and Packaging for Your Products

Containers and packaging create 82 million tons of waste every year, which shows we must change their ways.

Sustainable containers minimize your carbon footprint and show you’re eco-conscious. But choosing the right packaging can feel overwhelming if you’re new to this. Perhaps you’re currently brainstorming ideas and you’re looking for guidance on the matter.

Sounds like you? No worries, we’ve got your back. Here’s our guide to sustainable containers and packaging for your products.

Recycled Cardboard and Paper

One of the top sustainable packaging materials is recycled cardboard. You’ll notice most businesses use this to ship products so it makes sense to re-use any leftovers. Plus, cardboard boxes can be recycled 25 times before being composted.

Reusable Plastic Containers

Reusable plastic containers are an effective part of any sustainable packaging strategy. Like small glass jars, it’s easy for customers to make returns. Although plastic tubs have a higher upfront cost, there’s less risk of being damaged. Because of this, you will use them for far longer than other packaging solutions.

Mushroom Packaging

Businesses interested in sustainable packaging should harness the power of mushrooms. You can use the roots, otherwise known as mycelium, for packaging smaller products. The beauty is it can be molded to fit any shape and naturally degrades over time.

Another effective method is using air pillows, which are a cost-effective alternative. These slash plastic production and can be used limitless times.

Biodegradable Peanuts

Stumped for sustainable product packaging? Then, biodegradable peanuts are for you.

Packing peanuts are usually made from polystyrene. This has caused problems in the past. Now, businesses use biodegradable versions made from non-toxic plant sources like cornstarch.

You could also swap to corrugated bubble wrap, which is made from up-cycled cardboard. Like bubble wrap, small cuts are made so that it protects the product during transit. The only downside is there’s nothing to pop in the end!

Bioplastics

Anyone interested in packaging sustainability should try out bioplastics. These can replace traditional plastics and are often used for food packaging. Know, PLA is the most common one and it comes from sugarcane.

Seaweed Packaging

Another quirky type of packaging comes from seaweed. An advantage of using seaweed is it’s abundant and doesn’t wreak havoc on the environment. Because of this, more businesses are considering using it for their sustainable packaging.

Edible Films

Businesses are also using edible films to reduce their environmental impact. This is made from chitosan, a sugar that comes from treating shrimp and crustacean shells. Note, that this works best in the food industry business. For example, it makes food prep easier and curbs waste.

Find Sustainable Containers and Packaging Today

Now, you have a list of great sustainable containers and packaging solutions.

Businesses should use reusable plastic containers or bioplastics to reduce their carbon footprint. You can also try seaweed or covering your product in the edible film. Whatever you choose, good luck with your venture!

Found this article helpful? Great! Then check out the rest of our blog for more tips and tricks.