In recent times, there has been a significant surge in people and companies actively seeking to minimise their ecological footprint. In doing so they hope to safeguard our planet with their shopping habits. Whether this inclination towards a low-impact lifestyle is driven by fleeting social media trends or a genuine commitment to making a positive change, the fact remains that an eco-fashion movement is gaining momentum. There is still a long way to go – almost half of all supermarket packaging isn’t easily recyclable. Opting for eco-friendly packaging & print has numerous benefits and should be a consideration when launching your next product.
Reducing your environmental impact
Eco-friendly packaging significantly reduces the environmental impact of food packaging. Traditional packaging materials that we’ve been using for years, such as plastic and Styrofoam, contribute to pollution, waste, and the depletion of natural resources. By adopting eco-friendly alternatives, food brands can promote sustainability and minimise their carbon footprint.
Reduced waste generated
Eco-friendly packaging is often designed to be reusable, recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable. These characteristics help reduce waste accumulation in landfills and oceans, which is a pressing global issue. Embracing eco-friendly packaging enables food brands to contribute to waste reduction efforts and support a circular economy.
Show your customers that you’re listening
Today’s consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint and are actively seeking sustainable options. By embracing eco-friendly packaging, food brands can cater to this growing demand and differentiate themselves from competitors. It can also enhance brand reputation and attract new environmentally conscious customers.
A cost-saving long-term solution
Although the initial investment in eco-friendly packaging materials may be slightly higher than traditional options, it can lead to long-term savings. For instance, some sustainable packaging solutions are made from renewable resources and require less energy during production. Additionally, recycling and reusing packaging materials can help reduce overall packaging costs.
Future proof your brand
The adoption of eco-friendly packaging aligns with the broader concept of supply chain resilience. As concerns about climate change and resource scarcity grow, a sustainable packaging strategy can help food brands build a more resilient and future-proof supply chain, reducing dependence on non-renewable resources.
Characteristics of eco-friendly packaging
- Virgin materials are not used on their own; they’re combined in a low-impact manufacturing process with recycled products
- Any virgin materials used should be farmed from sustainable sources in a low-impact manner
- Eco-friendly packaging should be completely biodegradable and preferably compostable
Common eco-friendly packaging materials
Biodegradable Plastic: Made from plant-based materials or biopolymers, these plastics break down naturally in the environment without leaving harmful residues.
Compostable Packaging: Made from organic materials, such as cornstarch, sugarcane bagasse, or bamboo, compostable packaging can be safely composted and returned to the soil as organic matter.
Paperboard: Paperboard, made from recycled paper fibres, is a versatile and recyclable material commonly used for packaging boxes, cartons, and trays.
Moulded Pulp: Made from recycled paper or agricultural fibres, moulded pulp is a renewable and compostable material used for protective packaging, trays, and containers.
Bioplastics: These plastics are derived from renewable sources, such as corn, sugarcane, or algae. They are biodegradable or compostable, reducing their environmental impact.
Edible Packaging: Edible films and coatings made from natural ingredients, such as seaweed or fruit peels, provide a unique solution by being both eco-friendly and consumable.
Glass: Glass is highly recyclable and provides an excellent barrier to moisture, air, and odours. It is commonly used for jars, bottles, and containers.
Aluminium: Aluminium is lightweight, recyclable, and has excellent barrier properties. It is often used for cans and foil packaging.
Plant-based Fibre: Packaging materials made from plant fibres, such as wheat straw, bamboo, or bagasse, are renewable, biodegradable, and compostable.
Reusable Packaging: Encouraging the use of reusable packaging, such as glass jars, stainless steel containers, or cloth bags, reduces waste and promotes a sustainable packaging system.
In Conclusion
If you are looking to embrace a more environmentally friendly approach to all aspects of your food branding, get in touch and we would love to discuss how we can help.
