12 Jan The Best Sustainable Packaging Options
Sustainable Packaging Options: Recyclable vs. Biodegradable
No matter where you live, having a low impact on the environment is vital. Many brands are now utilizing sustainable packaging options through new designs and eco-friendly materials. It’s simple to say that the term “sustainable” has become more than a buzzword-it’s a necessity to implement in any business. Yet, many argue whether recycling or biodegradable packaging is right for the eco-conscious consumer.
Let’s distinguish the difference between recycling and biodegradable packaging to find out which is better for the environment.
Recyclable Packaging
Recyclable packaging is any form of packaging that can be reused and recycled. The benefits of recyclable packaging are considerable. This method saves raw materials, manufacturing energy, and helps reduce greenhouse emissions. Packaging materials that are recyclable include:
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Gummed Paper Tape
- Paper Cushioning
- Paper Surface Protection
- Moulded Pulp
- Plastic Packaging
- Paper Mailing Bags
Biodegradable Packaging
Eco-friendly packaging options such as biodegradable packaging is a step in the right direction. The ingredients used to create this type of packaging are not harmful to the environment and they break down over time.
Biodegradable plastic is used in plastic bags and other items such as envelopes used for bulk mailing. This type of plastic starts to decompose when exposed to daylight and is an excellent alternative to traditional plastics. Other biodegradable packaging forms include paper packaging materials with no plastic coatings or laminations and corn starch packaging.
However, disposal is a problem with biodegradable plastic packaging. Materials made from biodegradable plastic will not decompose thoroughly in a landfill due to inadequate oxygen levels. It will be critical to contact a disposal company specializing in bioplastic recycling to ensure the material is collected and processed correctly.
The Bottom Line
With a global shift towards implementing sustainable packaging options, it is up to manufacturers and businesses to determine which eco-friendly packaging options work best for them. Overall, if we use fewer single-use plastic materials in the supply chain, less plastic waste will be produced.
At Albert Paper Products, we continue to work closely with our customers to achieve the highest sustainability level by ensuring our raw materials are purchased from certified sources and mills. We minimize waste to decrease our customers’ costs and limit our marketplace footprint. If your business requires innovative sustainable packaging, contact us today!