Sustainability is more than just good for the planet. It’s good PR for your company. That’s why you should consider adding sustainable packaging to your repertoire. It helps your company meet sustainability goals, and gives eco-conscious consumers a better choice when selecting their products.
What’s trending in sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging has gone beyond just post-consumer recycled paper products to make corrugated cardboard and packing materials that keep products safe.
Eco-labels, soy-based inks, and starch-based biodegradable packing peanuts are all reasonable and cost-effective solutions. Flexible packaging, made of non-rigid materials like paper, can cut down on your packaging costs while fitting a wide range of product types, sizes, and materials. The smaller size means more packages are delivered, which translates to lesser emissions.
Is it cost-effective to have sustainable packaging?
According to Raconteur, 43% of brands say that the comparatively high cost of sustainable packaging materials is one of the greatest obstacles to switching. The cost is almost always higher because sustainable packaging doesn’t have the same scale of production compared to more abundant ones like plastics.
However, looking at cost alone doesn’t paint a clear picture of how the switch to sustainable packaging is financially viable. There are more less tangible benefits that business owners often overlook.
First impressions last, and customers usually look at the packaging and form their opinions on your brand. A brand that makes an effort to reduce its carbon footprint and makes it more desirable for customers.
What are the pros and cons of sustainable packaging?
Making a choice based on the total environmental impact is all pro in our book. Among the pros is customer retention. Communicating your commitment to sustainability with your consumers and customer base is a great way to build brand loyalty.
One watch-out, however, is to confirm that the product performance matches the application and shipping environment and does not require you to use more for equal performance, as that may go against your sustainability goals.
Depending on the product and sustainable attributes, the price may vary, so it is advised to do a total cost comparison so you know the full picture.
What impact can my company have on the environment if we switch to sustainable packaging?
Reduce environmental burden, protect natural resources, and help educate consumers on the proper end-of-life disposal. Packaging is a great billboard! Use it!
By Brendan Heegan
Have more questions? Reach out to Boxzooka. We can help you with sustainable packaging solutions.
