How we package our goods and services is more important than you might think. The packaging, aside from serving the practical purpose of protecting the goods inside, is the first opportunity we have to get an idea of the brand. It’s an opportunity for further advertisement and throughout the ages, brands have used it as a canvas for some pretty imaginative concepts.
In an era where environmental consciousness is of paramount importance, however, it’s not so much what the packaging looks like that’s important; it’s where it comes from and where it’s going to end up. Sustainable packaging has emerged in recent years as a critical aspect of responsible business practices and as brands and consumers increasingly prioritise eco-friendly solutions, the packaging design sector must adapt or struggle.
What Is Sustainable Packaging?
Horea Grindean
Sustainable packaging goes beyond mere aesthetics—it’s about making conscious choices that minimize harm to the planet. There are dozens of variables to consider with sustainable packaging but in a nutshell, here’s what it typically entails:
Materials
Sustainable packaging means using raw materials that are renewable, recycled, or biodegradable. Steering clear of single-use plastics, carboard and glass. Bamboo, recycled cardboard, paper, and even seaweed packaging are excellent alternatives that can be practical and attractive too.
Production
The sustainable journey goes beyond the packaging itself. Being truly sustainable means minimizing the production process and supply chain to reduce carbon emissions. It’s about considering the entire lifecycle of the packaging; from creation to disposal.
Reusability
Designing packaging that can be reused or repurposed feeds into a circular economy that extends the lifecycle of materials and minimizes waste.
Why Is Sustainable Packaging Important?
Of course, the most obvious benefit of sustainable packaging is the carbon footprint (or lack thereof) Traditional packaging generates significant greenhouse gas emissions during production and disposal, but sustainable packaging mitigates these emissions. Sustainable packaging also reduces reliance on non-biodegradable materials like plastic and Styrofoam, the use of which has led to a legitimate plastic waste crisis in recent years.
Racheal Kazembe
Then, of course, there’s the PR angle. 72% of consumers would be more likely to buy a product that classifies itself as environmentally friendly and, as Gen Z becomes the most visible market, the importance is only going to get more pronounced. Brands that embrace sustainable packaging will gain loyalty not only from environmentally conscious customers but the general public who, by and large, at least have sustainability lingering in the backburner when making purchasing decisions.
The Brands Already Doing it Right
Elopak: Pioneering Liquid Food Cartons
Elopak, a Norwegian company specializing in liquid food product packaging, is at the forefront of sustainability. Their commitment to eco-friendly alternatives has led to innovative solutions in the aseptic market. Here’s what sets them apart:
Paperboard Cartons: Elopak’s cartons are predominantly crafted from paperboard, a renewable resource when responsibly sourced. By using paper-based materials, they reduce reliance on plastic and contribute to a greener future.
Pure-Pak eSense: In 2022, Elopak introduced the Pure-Pak eSense carton. This groundbreaking technology replaces traditional aluminium barriers with a polyolefin blend. By eliminating aluminium entirely, Elopak reduces environmental impact while maintaining product integrity.
Notpla: Seaweed-Based Biodegradable Packaging
Notpla takes inspiration from nature itself. This brand creates biodegradable packaging materials derived from seaweed and plants. Here’s what makes Notpla stand out:
Oohos Sachets: Notpla’s custom manufacturing machine produces Oohos sachets, ranging from 15ml to 100ml. These single-use sachets are made from brown seaweed, which grows rapidly without competing with food crops. They offer a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic packaging.
Rapid Biodegradation: Notpla’s products break down naturally within four to six weeks, leaving no harmful residue. This commitment to biodegradability ensures a cleaner environment.
Crown Holdings: A Legacy of Sustainable Solutions
Crown Holdings boasts a rich history and extensive experience in sustainable packaging. Here’s what defines their approach:
Steel and Aluminium Cans: Crown Holdings provides steel and aluminium cans for the food and beverage industries. These recyclable containers reduce waste and promote circular economy practices.
Industrial Products: Their offerings extend beyond cans. Crown Holdings supplies steel and plastic strap consumables, equipment, and paper-based protective packaging. Their solutions cater to diverse consumer goods and industrial needs.
Tiny Box Company: Ethical Luxury Packaging
Tiny Box Company has been synonymous with ethical packaging since 2007. Their focus on luxury and sustainability sets them apart:
Biodegradable Options: Tiny Box Company produces biodegradable packaging, including eco-friendly gift boxes. Their commitment to the environment extends to recycled jewellery boxes, bags, and rigid boxes.
Attention to Detail: With meticulous design, they create packaging that combines aesthetics with eco-consciousness. From acid-free tissue paper to recycled cardboard envelopes, Tiny Box Company offers a comprehensive range of ethical solutions.
Biomass Packaging: Cultivating Sustainability
Biomass Packaging is a trailblazer in sustainable solutions for various industries. Their commitment to a compostable waste stream drives their innovative approach. Let’s explore what sets them apart:
Closed-Loop Lifecycle: Biomass Packaging’s product journey begins with raw materials sourced from agriculture. These materials are transformed into disposable products. After use, these items are collected from municipal waste streams. But here’s the remarkable part: instead of ending up in landfills, they are composted. Finally, the composted material returns to the soil as valuable nutrients, enriching the earth and supporting crop growth.
Customer-Centric Approach: Beyond their eco-friendly offerings, Biomass Packaging goes the extra mile. They provide exceptional customer services, including education and assistance. Whether its helping businesses make informed choices or ensuring timely stocking and delivery within 24 hours, Biomass Packaging prioritizes customer satisfaction.
McDonald’s: Setting an Important Standard
Finally, the world’s biggest fast-food chain has committed to making its packaging 100% renewable and recycled by the end of 2025. Their shift away from single-use plastics and the general “Planet Positive” initiative sets an important industry standard for a sector that has historically been a major polluter.
An Investment Worth Making
Driven by societal demand, sustainable packaging brands are pushing boundaries and redefining their visions. The manufacturers mentioned above exemplify sustainability’s strong foothold today and the remarkable progress that’s already been achieved. But we still have further to climb.
As competition intensifies within the sustainable packaging industry, brands will be weighing factors like packaging costs, product life cycles, renewable energy usage, and material quality. Finding the perfect balance might prove tricky but it’s an investment worth making, for the planet and your bottom line.
