The world is facing some big environmental challenges. Single use plastic pollution is one of them and we literally see the effects of this unsustainable practice all around us when we pass discarded plastic bags and soda bottles strewn about our communities’ streets and sidewalks. We can make an impact on this particular problem by choosing better packaging.
Companies and consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging options that are less harmful to the environment and make better business sense.
Here at Innisbrook, we pride ourselves on our eco-friendly packaging and have built a system to help you save money and save the environment. We keep our pricing low on our packaging and even lower for subscription orders with an additional 15% discount.
Check out the different options for sustainable packaging and learn how you can make an impact:
Table of Contents
1. Biodegradable Packaging
One of the most promising sustainable packaging options is biodegradable packaging. This type of packaging is made from natural materials that can break down over time, making it much easier on the environment than traditional packaging. Check out this simple chart showing the time it takes different types of materials to biodegrade which was created by the Science Learning Hub – Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao in New Zealand:
This table shows how long some common items will take to break down if left in the environment.
| Vegetables | 5 days –1 month |
| Paper | 2–5 months |
| Cotton T-shirt | 6 months |
| Orange peels | 6 months |
| Tree leaves | 1 year |
| Wool socks | 1–5 years |
| Plastic-coated paper milk cartons | 5 years |
| Leather shoes | 25–40 years |
| Nylon fabric | 30–40 years |
| Tin cans | 50–100 years |
| Aluminium cans | 80–100 years |
| Glass bottles | 1 million years |
| Styrofoam cup | 500 years to forever |
| Plastic bags | 500 years to forever |
(Website link: https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/1543-measuring-biodegradability)
There are a few different types of biodegradable packaging, including plant-based plastics, compostable materials, and even packaging made from food waste. Notice the insane difference in how long it takes for plastic to biodegrade compared to paper? It’s no mistake that people are making the switch to paper bags, instead of plastic. While not all biodegradable packaging options are created equal, packaging that is more biodegradable is a step in the right direction and something that we should all be looking for when choosing packaging for our businesses.
2. Recycled packaging
Another great option for sustainable packaging is recycled packaging. This type of packaging uses direct materials that have already been used and are re-processed which means they don’t need to be sourced from the earth.
There are many different types of recycled materials that can be used for packaging, including paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic. And while recycling isn’t perfect, it’s a much better option than using virgin materials. It’s also important to make sure that you’re choosing recyclable packaging whenever possible. Savanna Stanfield, writing for citizensustainable.org, identifies energy savings when some basic materials are recycled in her article titled, ‘Is Recycling Energy Efficient’. Recycled paper uses only 60% of the energy required to manufacture paper from scratch! As energy generation shifts away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy resources such as wind and solar, the use of recycled materials that also biodegrade quickly becomes even more appealing over time.
You can feel good about using our Innisbrook Kraft Paper Bags because they are recyclable. Plus, they are sturdy and stylish – perfect for carrying your groceries, books, gifts, or anything other products your business sells.
3. Reusable Packaging
Another sustainable packaging option is reusable packaging. This type of packaging can be used repeatedly, which reduces the need for new packaging materials.
There are a few different types of reusable packaging, including glass jars, metal tins, and even fabric bags. And while some forms of reusable packaging may cost more upfront, they’ll save you money in the long run and help reduce your impact on the environment.
You can use our personalized totes to store anything you need, and they are a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Our totes are made of sturdy materials that can be reused hundreds of times, so you’ll be doing your part to help the planet every time you re-use one.
Check a few out here:
- Personalized White Mesh Tote
- Monogrammed Quilted Tote Bag w/ Polka Dot Lining
- Personalized Black Mesh Tote
4. Packaging Made From Renewable Resources
A fourth sustainable option for packaging is packaging made from renewable resources. This type of packaging uses materials that can be replenished, such as pulp from trees, plant-based plastics derived from field crops or other plants such as bamboo which is a fast growing type of grass.
Products derived from renewable resources are a great option for sustainable packaging because they don’t deplete the earth’s finite resources. And while some renewable materials may cost more upfront, they’re a much better option for the environment in the long run.
Our kraft paper bags are made from papers that are FSC certified, making them an environmentally friendly option for packaging. Whether you’re looking for a shopping bag, gift bag, or promotional bag, our kraft paper bags are sure to fit your needs.
Sustainable packaging is the future of business, for several reasons. Firstly, it is more environmentally friendly and will save you money over time. Secondly, consumers are starting to expect sustainable products from businesses, so not only is this a wise business choice, but also a smart marketing decision. Thirdly, if businesses choose their packaging carefully, they can increase sales through experiences and build positive associations in customers’ minds.
These are just a few of the best sustainable packaging options that are available and a few reasons why you might want to consider making a few changes to your packaging. And while there’s no perfect solution, these options are a great place to start. So, next time you’re looking for packaging for your products, keep these options in mind and choose something that’s eco-friendly and sustainable.