5 Sustainable Packaging Supplies That You Need To Know

Sustainable packaging utilises materials and processes that have a minimal environmental impact—from production to post-use. The main goal is to improve the long-term viability and quality of life for humans and the longevity of natural ecosystems. The packaging supplies used need to satisfy the functional and economic needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

A Few Sustainable Packaging Supplies Are:

1. Corrugated Bubble Wrap

Corrugated bubble wrap, being made of plastic is normally used to protect fragile items during shipping. As plastic is not the most eco-friendliest material, there are several alternatives to bubble wrap available in the market. One of these is a wrap made of up-cycled corrugated cardboard. Instead of disposing or recycling post-consumer cardboard waste, it gets used as a cushioning material. This is done by placing small cuts on the cardboard to produce a concertina-type effect that protects against shocks just as bubble wrap does. Reusing cardboard helps to reduce landfill waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and protects trees.

2. Air Pillows Made Of Recycled Materials

Inflatable air pillows, that are available in a variety of sizes act as an alternative to styrofoam or bubble wrap. They are often made from recyclable plastic. It is eco- and cost-saving packaging supplies that are used for filling voids in boxes or providing cushioning around packed items. They are small bags, which can be inflated with air due to which the amount of plastic used in production is less and it weighs less when compared to other cushioning materials. They can be reused, recycled, and are even biodegradable.

3. Cornstarch Packaging

Cornstarch is an organic material, derived from the corn or maize plant. It has plastic-like properties, thus making it a good replacement in place of plastic. From bottles to moulded forms and loose-fill packaging, cornstarch packaging is quite versatile in its functionality. The drawback of this packaging is that it is made by using grains of corn, thus making a huge dent in the human and animal food supply. This can cause price fluctuations of the staples.

4. Recycled Cardboard And Paper

Cardboard and paper use has a great impact on the environment as it directly contributes to the depletion of natural forests. Avoiding the usage of normal cardboard and paper packaging for recycled material ensures the non-utilisation of virgin materials from the rainforest. It is important to use packaging supplies that are FSC-certified as it shows that they are sourced from sustainably managed forests.

5. Seaweed Packaging

Seaweed packaging is made from a gelatinous substance called agar, also referred to as agar-agar. It is already used in the food industry as a vegan-friendly replacement for gelatine, a product derived from collagen taken from animal body parts. Seaweed packaging can be made to form plastic-like packaging, cardboard-like packaging and can even be shaped to make products like mini capsules.

Also Read: VCI –The One-Stop Packaging Solution

Although packaging plays an important role in protecting the product, the waste generated due to this is extreme and businesses need to invest in greener packaging supplies. The rising demand by consumers also plays an important role in the changing attitudes of businesses today.