Did you know that the world produces 141 million tonnes of plastic packaging each year?
A 2021 OECD report revealed that only 9% of such plastic waste worldwide is recycled. With such alarming findings, it is necessary to take action and choose sustainable packaging solutions meeting the following three factors:- circularity,
- low carbon footprint
- safe use and production
Creating custom sustainable packaging
If you are running a small business, you’ve probably been looking for environmental and price conscious ways to provide your customers with an unforgettable unboxing experience, making it a real “TA-DAAN” moment! We know how challenging it can be to find an alternative that is both friendly in terms of budget, that allows you to order a reasonable and moderate number of minimum units… and that is kind to the planet, of course.
Keep reading to discover 5 different ways to be part of the revolution! (These work best when paired together )
1. Size matters
Yes, you’ve read it right!
Choosing an appropriately sized packaging is crucial for sustainability: this way, your products will be shipped safely and securely, without creating any unnecessary waste! This will be a win-win situation that will lead to a drastically lower energy requirement in the production phase and carbon footprint during the transportation phase… and also lower costs in warehousing and logistics! The best of both worlds, right?
Properly packaging your products will show your clients that you care about them, but also about the environment!
Tip: Make sure to measure the items you will sell, cluster them in size ranges and find the perfect mailer boxes sizes.
2. Recycle as there’s no tomorrow
Life in plastic is NOT fantastic: make sure to use plastic only where its properties are uniquely suitable, and commit to choose more climate-compatible materials.
More and more plastic alternatives are now available! From sugar cane, to corn and potato starch, scientific research has been active on finding lower environmental impact substitutes.
Even paper can be a good option for lowering carbon footprint. In this case, we recommend choosing recycled paper and cardboard, which contributes to 35% less water pollution and 74% less air pollution with respect to non-recycled paper.
If you are looking for a good ally, we can recommend Packhelp: the company offers customizable packaging that is at least 60% recycled and 100% recyclable! We guarantee you will find any shipping product you might need, from mailing boxes to tissue paper and paper bubble wrap.
Tip: A paper wrapping is very effective and will positively impress your customers.
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3. Less is more
When customizing your packaging, keep in mind that certain design enhancements could lower the recyclability of your packaging.
How can you avoid that?
Less surface area printing means significant savings on ink usage and easier de-inking process: try to keep your printed area as limited as possible.
Glitters are cool, we know, but using them might make the paper completely un-recyclable.
To say it shortly: keep it simple!
Tip: Pick one color only; often times a simple design is perceived as more elegant
4. Have they done the paperwork?
When looking for a partner, if you are uncertain about their sustainability practices, have a look at the certifications they own. Some of them might be:
- FSCⓇ: this one provides a certification system that allows consumers to identify products made from responsibly managed forests;
- OK Compost Industrial: This certification is awarded to products that meet the European standard EN 13432 for compostable and biodegradable packaging.
- PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification): an international non-profit organization that promotes sustainable forest management through a certification system for forest products.
Guess what? Packhelp owns each of these certifications… and more! Go have a look at their sustainability page and get all the information you need to make a conscious choice!
5. Act now and act fast!
When it comes to sustainability, timing is crucial.
Make sure to switch to a sustainable packaging alternative as soon as you can!
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