One of the most significant challenges we face today is our impact on the atmosphere around us. Thus, everyone needs to play their role in protecting the environment. One way to do this is by choosing sustainable packaging.
Brands commonly use sustainable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint in all stages of the product life cycle. This is beneficial for both the consumer and the producer. As customers become more environmentally conscious, they are more likely to turn to brands that provide them with an option of sustainable packaging that causes less of them to the environment. We cover some tips on choosing sustainable packaging to reduce waste and the size of your carbon footprint.
According to research, the product packaging generates around 28% of solid waste each year, accounting for approximately 83 million tons of waste. This figure has been increasing at a high rate each year, and it is up to us to slow it down!
The good news for businesses is that choosing sustainable packaging attracts customers. According to a study, most of the customers are even willing to pay more for eco-friendly products.
While shopping, it is best to look out for brands or suppliers that ship their products in eco-friendly ways mentioned below.
1. Biodegradable Packaging Peanuts
Biodegradable Packaging Peanuts are an alternative to Styrofoam, and they work in the same way but pollute the environment far less. Styrofoam has recently been banned in New York as this packaging material is neither biodegradable nor recyclable.
Hence, it is best to use the biodegradable and less polluting alternative to Styrofoam, that is, Biodegradable packaging peanuts.
2. Inflatable Air Pillows
If you want to be an environmental consumer, staying away from plastic, Styrofoam, or bubble wrap packaging is an excellent place to start. Inflatable air pillows are an eco-friendly alternative to these things. They work best to fill voids in packing boxes or provide support or cushion around them. Air pillows are made will 100% recycled material. So, look out for these while shopping.
3. Cornstarch Packaging
Cornstarch packaging is derived from corn or maize plants, and it is an excellent biodegradable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam. It needs to be disposed of properly to allow it to break down into carbon dioxide and water within a few months. Ideally, it is fast food or takeaway food packaging.
4. Paper-Based Packaging
Paper-based packaging is less harmful to the environment as it is naturally biodegradable and renewable. Paper is hence a much safer option compared to plastic.
Paper can be easily recycled up to 6 or 7 times before the fibers become too short for use. Well-known brands like L’oreal, McDonald’s, Amazon, and Apple are now moving towards paper-based packaging. So, it is best to choose a brand that uses paper than plastic.
5. Seaweed Packaging
Seaweed packaging can be the next big thing in eco-friendly packaging. Evoware is a company that uses seaweed to create plastic-like packaging. It biodegrades naturally within weeks, unlike other packaging alternatives. So, if a brand is using it in their packaging, it’s safe to say they are concerned about the environment.
Wrapping Up
We all need to play our part in protecting the environment. Why not start with small things like choosing the right brands that offer sustainable packaging alternatives?
