Nowadays, the trend of using green packaging is gradually becoming a global trend. Green packaging is come out with that are both convenient and safe for the environment and people’s health. Let’s dig deep into how green packaging change our life in this blog with KimEcopak.
What is green packaging?
The term “green packaging” refers to packaging that is more environmentally friendly than plastic or styrofoam packaging. Green packaging is also called eco-friendly packaging, eco packaging, or sustainable packaging.
Eco-friendly packaging includes renewable packaging, compostable poly mailers (bioplastics), recycled corrugated cardboard boxes, or other packaging materials that lower waste.
Sustainable packaging uses biodegradable and recyclable materials, and green manufacturing techniques to reduce greenhouse emissions and the harmful impacts of packaging on the environment.
Types of Green Packaging
Biodegradable Packaging
Biodegradable packaging can break down naturally over time. After breaking down, biodegradable packaging does not leave any harmful pollutants. Biodegradable packaging can be made from cardboard or paper.
Compostable Packaging
Packaging that can be composted is produced from substances that can break down naturally and return to the earth without leaving any harmful residue. Typically, plant-based materials (such as corn, sugar cane, or bamboo) and/or bio-poly mailers are used to create compostable packaging.
Recyclable Packaging
Recyclable packaging is made from recyclable materials such as cardboard, glass, and paper,...Recyclable material is materials that can be reused in another form through the process of “recycling”.
Reusable Packaging
After being utilized for its primary purpose, reusable packaging can be used once more for the same or a different purpose.
For example: When you place an online order, cardboard boxes can be used to deliver packages. After that, they can also be used to store items.
What are the materials used in eco-green packaging?
Here are some common green materials for packaging:
Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated cardboard can be considered the most common green packaging type. Because cardboard is made from up to 100% recycled material. Moreover, it can be used again for other purposes such as storing items. This type of eco-friendly packaging is 80 percent more recycled than other packaging.
Glass
Environmentally friendly glass bottle packaging can be washed and reused around 30 times before it's infinitely recycled.
Recyclable plastic
Here are some common recyclable plastics
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): milk cartoons and shampoo bottles
- Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): water bottles and plastic trays
- Polypropylene (PP) (not accepted by all recyclers): margarine tubs and ready-meal trays
Bioplastics
Bioplastic plastic is produced from renewable biomass sources, such as vegetable fats and oils, corn starch, straw, woodchips, and sawdust,... This plastic has a similar look, feel, and functions as standard plastics. However, this material can be broken down at the end of the life cycle by water and carbon dioxide. So, this material is used to make the packaging eco-friendly and diminish carbon footprint.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a renewable resource, biodegradable, and 100% compostable, making it a perfect alternative to traditional paper packaging.
Mushroom
Mushroom-based packaging makes use of agricultural waste and is held together in a packaging of mycelium, or mushroom roots. This type of packaging is biodegradable and environmentally friendly packaging.
Benefits of using green packaging
Protect the environment
- Reduce carbon footprint: Green packaging can help reduces the amount of wasted materials and the consumption of resources. So, the carbon footprint can be minimized.
- No toxic chemicals in the environment: Sustainable, compostable packaging can help nurture the planet instead of letting off toxic chemicals when they break down.
- No harmful microplastic pieces pollute the earth’s ecosystems and hurt animals.
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Cost-saving
Green packaging can reduce costs. Companies can save money by using sustainable materials that are less expensive than non-sustainable materials. It can also reduce the amount of waste that is produced, which can reduce disposal costs.
Enhance your brand value
Customers tend to buy sustainable packaging instead of non-sustainable packaging. There are several reasons why customers prefer brands that use green packaging.
- Firstly, it shows that the company is environmentally conscious and cares about the impact it has on the environment. Customers are more likely to support companies that take environmental issues seriously.
- Secondly, green packaging is more aesthetically pleasing than non-sustainable packaging. It has a natural look and feel that appeals to customers.
So, when your business can match customers' need for sustainability and offer green packaging. They will be more satisfied and become your loyal customers.
4 steps to change to environmentally friendly packaging
Don't change everything at the same time
If you attempt to adjust everything at once, it is not okay. Start with one or two samples and evaluate the outcomes before switching all of your current packaging to green packaging.
Order product samples
These days, there are many businesses that provide environmentally friendly packaging. The best way to find out which one is right for you is to buy several samples to test.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Check for compatibility with your products.
- Check the packaging's durability.
- Select packaging that can fit your product and is substantial enough.
Price adjustment
The cost of materials and shipping can differ depending on the type of green packaging. As a result, you need to consider adjusting the pricing accordingly.
Start with small quantity order
If you have just started working with a new sustainable packaging supplier. You should order a small quantity to judge durability, customer reception, and overall performance against your old packaging. Then you can start ordering more when you fully transition to the new packaging.
Top 4 eco-friendly brand green packaging in Canada
Calvin Klein
Currently, 74% of Calvin Klein’s packaging is already recyclable. This brand aims to be a zero-waste company by 2030.
ASOS
Since 2019, ASOS has removed 40% of its own packaging. Instead, they use packaging sized appropriately for products, which helps the carbon footprint of the mail bags have been diminished by 27%. This brand has removed 75% of the packaging in 80,000+ ASOS DESIGN shoe boxes. Moreover, ASOS has stopped using return slips and using the returns online method.
Puma
Zara currently is producing recyclable packaging. In addition, customers can bring their unwanted items back to stores to be recycled or repurposed. Zara aims for 100% landfill free by 2025.
KimEcopak
KimEcopak is a sustainable packaging company founded by an entrepreneur named Kim Vu. Currently, KimEcopak provides an extensive range of eco-friendly products that cater to the unique needs of Canadian restaurants, including compostable, biodegradable, and sustainable food packaging in a variety of sizes and green materials, all at an impressively affordable price.
