With the deteriorating state of the planet, every business should protect the environment through sustainable operations. As a business owner, you should reduce the impact on the environment in every sector of your operations. Today, businesses are coming up with new and better ways of producing and designing products to reduce their carbon footprint and save money. One of them is how they package their products to reach their consumers. The cost of creating high-quality packaging materials to oversee products safely reach their consumers through retailers has created a new wave of alternative eco-friendly materials. In this article, we have outlined seven green packaging alternatives.
1. Cardboard and Paper
These are some of the most eco-friendly packaging materials shipping businesses use. The materials are recyclable and have less impact on the environment. Something like tissue paper can be customized to create attractive and reusable packaging. It is an effective branding solution where you can brand your logo to market your business.
2. Edible Films
It is now possible to make edible packaging materials. You can eat your favorite chocolate together with its packaging. This packaging method has made food preparation and storage easy while reducing the impact on the environment. This packaging alternative is used in the food industry to package food items instead of harmful plastic.
3. Bubble Wraps
These are kids’ favorite because of the popping bubbles. They are mainly used to wrap delicate items during shipping. Earlier, bubble wraps were made from plastic, which was not eco-friendly. However, the innovations are recyclable. They come with small cuts to prevent shocks. The only difference is that kids cannot pop the bubbles after use.
4. Recyclable Air Pillows
Air pillows are other great packaging alternatives. They are available in different sizes and are ideal for providing extra cushioning when packing products. These are small inflated bags that consume a larger space. Therefore, there is no need to use a lot of plastic to make the pillows. The good thing is that they can be recycled and reused. Ensure you buy air pillows made from biodegradable materials.
5. Reusable Fabric Bags
Organic fabric materials are another alternative to plastic packaging. You will come across organic packaging materials like recycled cotton, palm leaves, hemp, tapioca, etc. They are 100% biodegradable and reusable, making them a perfect alternative to plastic.
6. Mushroom Packaging
Mushroom packaging is another cost-effective and environmentally-friendly material used for packaging small items. It is created from cleaned and ground mushroom wastes. The material can be designed in any shape, dried, and utilized as a packaging material. It is also biodegradable with little impact on the environment.
7. Cornstarch Materials
This material continues to increase in popularity. It is created from corn plants and has plastic-resembling properties. Therefore, it is a great alternative to plastic. Since it is derived from human and animal food, it comes at a higher cost than other materials. Before you choose this packaging, weigh its benefits and downsides first.
To Wrap It Up:
Countries are now banning the use of materials made from fossil fuels. This initiative comes after realizing that the planet’s state continues to deteriorate due to industrial activities. Sustainable packaging is one great step towards reducing carbon footprint and saving the earth.
