Sustainability has become a top priority for both consumers and businesses, and packaging is at the heart of that shift. Once a minor consideration, eco-friendly packaging is now a mainstream expectation and a powerful factor influencing purchasing decisions.
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According to the Global Buying Green Report by Trivium Packaging, 82% of consumers are willing to pay more for products that use sustainable packaging. Among Gen Z shoppers, that number climbs to 90%, underscoring the growing environmental commitment of younger generations. The same report found that 71% of global consumers had chosen a product in the past six months specifically because the packaging was sustainable.
This shift highlights a deeper awareness of how everyday choices, from what consumers buy to how products are packaged, can help protect the planet. For businesses, this is no longer a trend but a strategic imperative. Brands that embrace green packaging for businesses, whether through custom folding cartons or pressure sensitive labels, can not only reduce their environmental impact but also strengthen customer loyalty, comply with evolving regulations, and future-proof their operations in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace.
If you’re a business owner or a professional in packaging or procurement, understanding what sustainable packaging is, why it matters, and how to apply it to your operations is essential. This guide will walk you through key concepts, types of sustainable packaging, consumer expectations, and practical steps to help your business align with today’s sustainability standards.
Sustainable packaging refers to the use of materials and processes that reduce negative environmental impact throughout a product’s lifecycle. This includes packaging that is recyclable, biodegradable, compostable, reusable, or made from post-consumer recycled content. The goal is to reduce packaging waste, conserve resources, and reduce carbon emissions without compromising product safety or quality.
Choosing eco-friendly packaging materials benefits more than just the environment. It allows businesses to:
By adopting sustainable packaging solutions, companies show that they’re committed to long-term environmental stewardship. In today’s market, that commitment is not only valued, it’s expected.
As demand for eco-conscious products grows, businesses have more options than ever when it comes to choosing sustainable packaging materials. Whether you’re shipping consumer goods or designing retail packaging, selecting the right type of eco-friendly packaging can help reduce waste and align your brand with environmental values. These are great eco-packaging ideas for products.
Here are some of the most widely used types of sustainable packaging:
Biodegradable packaging solutions are made from materials that break down naturally in the environment, reducing long-term waste. Common biodegradable materials include:
These materials are ideal for food packaging, e-commerce products, and other items where disposal and environmental impact are top of mind.
Recyclable packaging options are made from materials that can be processed and turned into new products after use. This includes:
Using recyclable packaging materials not only reduces waste but also supports circular economy efforts by keeping valuable resources in use longer.
Reusable packaging is designed to be used multiple times before being recycled or discarded. This includes:
By investing in reusable packaging, brands can significantly reduce single-use packaging waste and foster deeper customer engagement through loyalty and sustainability programs.
This is also a powerful way to explore how to make packaging more sustainable.
Compostable packaging goes a step further than biodegradable packaging by breaking down into natural elements in a composting environment, typically within a defined timeframe. Materials used include:
This type of packaging is particularly effective for brands that want to reduce landfill contributions and appeal to highly eco-conscious consumers.
PCR packaging is made from materials that consumers have already used and recycled. These materials are collected, processed, and remanufactured into new packaging, often plastics or paperboard. Using PCR content:
It’s a practical and scalable option for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint. And it’s a great example of what makes packaging eco-friendly. It’s a practical and scalable option for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint without overhauling existing packaging systems.
Selecting the right eco-friendly packaging materials depends on your product type, customer expectations, budget, and sustainability goals. Often, the most effective approach is to combine multiple sustainable packaging types into a strategy that meets both environmental and operational needs.
Adopting eco-friendly packaging is more than a sustainability trend, it’s a smart business move with lasting benefits for your brand, your customers, and the planet. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchases, companies that align with those values stand to gain in both loyalty and long-term relevance.
Here’s why using eco-friendly packaging matters:
Eco-friendly packaging helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills and oceans. By using biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable materials, brands can lower their carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. Sustainable packaging also supports global efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Businesses that use eco-friendly packaging for small business or enterprise solutions send a clear message: they care about environmental responsibility and future generations. This transparency builds trust, enhances brand perception, and sets you apart in competitive markets.
Eco-friendly packaging often signals higher product quality and thoughtful design. Whether it’s reusable containers, minimal waste, or clear recycling instructions, sustainable packaging creates a positive unboxing experience and reassures customers that they’re making an ethical choice.
It also reduces consumer guilt around packaging waste, making them feel better about their purchase and more likely to return.
As global regulations tighten around waste and plastic use, sustainable packaging prepares your business for the future. Forward-thinking brands that adopt eco-friendly practices now will be better positioned to navigate compliance, avoid penalties, and meet evolving retailer and investor requirements.
By using recyclable and compostable materials or incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, businesses help close the loop on waste. This shift supports a circular economy, where materials are reused instead of discarded, promoting long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
Switching to eco-friendly packaging doesn’t just reduce your environmental footprint, it strengthens your brand, deepens customer relationships, and helps future-proof your operations.
If your business is ready to reduce its environmental impact, knowing how to switch to sustainable packaging is an essential first step. It’s not just about choosing greener materials, it’s about creating a packaging strategy that balances sustainability with cost, performance, and customer experience.
Here are five practical steps to help you transition effectively:
Before making changes, assess your current packaging materials, structure, and supply chain. A thorough audit will help you identify unnecessary waste, inefficiencies, and non-sustainable materials. This foundational step is key to understanding how to make packaging more sustainable without sacrificing product protection or brand aesthetics. In many cases, adopting a minimal packaging approach can reduce material use, lower costs, and improve your environmental footprint—making it a smart starting point for any sustainability strategy.
Next, select materials that balance sustainability, performance, and cost. Whether it’s recycled cardboard, biodegradable packaging solutions, or compostable film, the materials you choose will shape your impact. Prioritize eco-friendly packaging materials that are certified, ethically sourced, and appropriate for your product use case.
Design for efficiency by using fewer materials, right-sizing your boxes, and eliminating unnecessary components. A minimalist approach not only cuts costs but also helps reduce packaging waste and carbon emissions. Smart design is one of the simplest ways to improve sustainability without changing your entire supply chain.
Your packaging can be a storytelling tool. Use messaging, icons, or QR codes to explain your sustainability practices. Showcasing eco-packaging ideas for products builds consumer trust and helps educate buyers on proper disposal or reuse. Transparency turns a functional package into a brand moment.
You don’t have to go it alone. Collaborating with a trusted expert in eco packaging ensures your solutions meet performance standards, comply with regulations, and align with your brand values. A strategic partner brings material innovations, testing, and lifecycle insights to scale your sustainability efforts.
The sustainable packaging market is projected to grow to $737.6 billion by . This surge is driven by both private and public sector efforts to accelerate the transition to eco-friendly packaging in response to evolving regulations and consumer expectations. One key driver is the increasing adoption of sustainable packaging in the food and beverage industry, where brands are exploring recyclable, compostable, and reusable options to enhance their environmental image and meet customer demand.
The food and beverage industry is the leading segment in the global green packaging market. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified this trend by increasing the need for hygienic, safe food delivery options, prompting many businesses to adopt sustainable packaging as a way to reduce waste while maintaining safety standards. This sector continues to be a primary testing ground for innovative eco-friendly packaging solutions.
China has surpassed the U.S. as the largest player in the global packaging market. Rapid packaging growth across Asia, particularly in China, India, and Indonesia, is closely tied to rising environmental awareness and consumer willingness to pay more for sustainable products. Survey data from these regions consistently shows stronger concern about environmental issues compared to other parts of the world.
The green packaging market is expected to grow at a 6.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between and . This upward trend is fueled by greater public awareness of sustainability, new legislation restricting single-use plastics, and increased demand for eco-friendly alternatives like folding cartons, compostable packaging, and paper-based materials, especially within the food service sector.
Among all segments, recycled content packaging currently generates the highest revenue in the sustainable packaging space. This growth is supported by stricter global regulations and heightened environmental concern across industries. Sectors such as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), pharmaceuticals, and personal care are leading the shift to green packaging, often incorporating recycled and bioplastic materials as part of their broader sustainability initiatives.
A growing number of consumers are consciously shifting their purchasing habits to lessen their environmental footprint. 73% of consumers say they are actively looking to reduce their impact on the planet. A separate survey found that 41% of buyers are willing to pay more for organic or environmentally friendly products, especially those with sustainable packaging that aligns with their values.
Recyclability continues to play a central role in consumer purchasing decisions. According to the Global Buying Green Report by Trivium Packaging, 82% of consumers worldwide say they are willing to pay more for products that use sustainable packaging. The preference is even stronger among younger consumers, with 90% of Gen Z respondents expressing this willingness. The same report notes that 71% of global consumers actively consider recyclability when deciding which products to buy. These findings reflect a deep and growing environmental consciousness among shoppers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who expect brands to offer recyclable packaging options that align with their sustainability values.
Roughly 50% of U.S. consumers say they’re willing to pay a premium for products that use sustainable packaging. This trend continues to grow as more buyers become aware of the long-term consequences of waste and non-recyclable materials. Fortunately, the increasing availability of eco-friendly packaging at wholesale prices makes sustainable options both accessible and cost-effective for brands and small businesses alike.
Today’s consumers are no longer loyal to brand or price alone, sustainability is a key purchase driver. A global study by Unilever revealed that 33% of shoppers are choosing products specifically from companies they believe are doing something positive for the environment. Brands that embrace eco-conscious packaging are more likely to earn trust, loyalty, and repeat business.
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped many aspects of consumer behavior, especially around hygiene and sustainability. According to recent data, 58% of consumers became more likely to purchase items with reusable or recyclable packaging. With health and environmental concerns at the forefront, customers now favor products they can reuse, repurpose, or responsibly dispose of, reinforcing the importance of eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Consumers are transitioning to sustainable packaging due to its positive environmental benefits. Here are some examples of sustainable packaging helping conserve the planet and its resources.
According to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report, packaging and containers account for a significant portion of municipal solid waste. In alone, 82.2 million tons of solid waste were used, or 28.1% of the total generation.
Using recyclable and reusable materials allows you to cut down this staggering figure. By switching to an eco-friendly alternative, your business can aid in reducing the amount of solid waste in landfills.
Fossil fuel is a non-renewable resource, unfortunately, 99% of all plastic products require it for production. When fossil fuels are burned, they release large amounts of carbon dioxide, causing an extensive release of greenhouse gases into the air, which is highly harmful to the planet and can exacerbate global warming.
Fortunately, using green product packaging enables you to reduce your company’s carbon footprint caused by packaging manufacturing.
A minimalist approach to packaging design contributes to the overall preservation of natural resources. Adopting this package production method ensures the conservation of renewable materials for future generations by allowing natural resources to replenish.
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Traditional packaging relies on burning fossil fuels for its manufacturing process. As previously mentioned, fossil fuel is harmful to the environment and is a non-renewable resource that takes millions of years to form underground before it’s ready for extraction.
For sustainable packaging manufacturers, the green initiative does not stop with the materials used. Organizations that switch to eco-friendly packaging do their best to use alternative power, such as solar or wind energy, which bodes well for the environment and sustainability initiatives.
One of the most significant driving factors that pushed manufacturers to use sustainable packaging is to gain consumer favor.
Food products have an extended shelf life when packaged in sustainable material. For instance, low-density perforated polyethylene packaging can extend the shelf life of fruits such as bananas to 30 days. Using environmentally friendly products also gives consumers added value and reduces waste in landfills by 20%.
The U.S. is one of the countries that has shown an increased focus on transitioning to sustainable packaging. Here are some U.S. laws and regulations that drive the switch to sustainable packaging and help the country reach its goals.
The CLEAN Future Act tasks all federal agencies of the U.S. government to reduce greenhouse emissions to at least 50%. Through this act, the government hopes to minimize gas pollution from levels by and achieve zero by .
To help govern this initiative, the government enlisted the help of the EPA to monitor, report, and make recommendations to each agency’s plan annually.
New York’s (NY) first Styrofoam ban happened in , but before the imposition of fines, a NY Supreme Court judge overturned the ruling. The judge stated that NY coalition recycling firms and plastic manufacturers had offered feasible recycling plans to their consumers.
Fortunately, the ban on single-use Styrofoam containers has been reinstated. The ban applies to food service establishments within the city, including stores and mobile food trucks offering or selling polystyrene packaging.
California (CA) Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB into law in October . Effective January 1, , the law imposes a total ban on producing, importing, and using paper-based food packaging containing perfluoroalkoxy (PFA).
Additionally, it requires cookware producers to be transparent about the possible harmful materials and chemicals used in their production.
Findings that link PFA to cancer, physical and environmental harm, and vaccine disruption pushed the California local government to pass the act. The enactment of AB ensures producers utilize the least toxic alternatives.
The U.S.’s restrictions on heavy metal compounds ban the intentional and incidental incorporation of metals such as cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium in packaging products. This ban is due to the use of stabilizers, dyes, and adhesives in traditional packaging, which can be harmful to consumers.
Aside from CA and NY, 19 other U.S. states have Toxics in Packaging legislation.
As sustainability expectations increase across industries, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies are becoming a key force behind the move toward eco-friendly packaging. These policies make manufacturers and brand owners responsible for the environmental impact of their products, including what happens to packaging after it is used.
EPR regulations require businesses to manage the collection, recycling, or disposal of their packaging materials. This responsibility encourages companies to design packaging that is easier to recycle, reuse, or compost. It promotes the use of recyclable packaging options, biodegradable packaging solutions, and materials that create less waste.
For many businesses, EPR presents both a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, it may require changes to packaging operations and new compliance efforts. On the other hand, it motivates innovation in sustainable packaging, improves brand reputation, and reduces long-term environmental and financial costs.
Taking early action on EPR helps companies prepare for future regulations. Several U.S. states are already moving toward adopting EPR policies, following examples from the European Union and Canada. Brands that use eco-friendly packaging materials will be in a stronger position to meet these new requirements and stand out in a competitive market.
To align with EPR principles, companies can:
EPR is part of a broader shift toward responsible manufacturing. For brands exploring how to switch to sustainable packaging, these policies support long-term environmental goals and demonstrate a commitment to accountability and innovation.
Sustainability in products is no longer an option but a demand, as more people realize the harmful effects of using unsustainable packaging. This growth in awareness has led the public to take active measures to help the environment and trust producers to do the same.
Switching to sustainable packaging enables businesses to preserve the environment and meet customer expectations. Whether you’re a national brand or searching for eco-friendly packaging for small businesses, your sustainability journey starts here.
Meyers offers decades of experience creating eco-packaging ideas for products that are both sustainable and impactful. From design to delivery, we help you bring your values to life in every package.
In recent decades, sustainability has become a key focus in the food industry. In the s, plastic exploded onto the packaging scene and became the most common material used in food packaging. In fact, nearly 40% of all plastics produced worldwide are used for food and drink packaging. These include single-use products, of which 85% ends up in landfills.
Both manufacturers and consumers alike recognize the detrimental impact of plastic on the environment. Unlike other materials, plastic does not biodegrade, so it can take up to 1,000 years to break down. This pollution impacts marine ecosystems, damages soil and can even cause serious health effects to humans.
Today’s consumers are more eco-conscious than ever, often choosing brands that align with their environmental values. As a result, adopting sustainable packaging isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic move that can enhance brand loyalty and long-term growth. In this guide, we’ll explore what sustainable packaging is, ideas for sustainable packaging, and how to implement sustainable packaging for your food production practices.
Traditional packaging is a major contributor to environmental pollution and waste. Waste from plastic food packaging accounts for a staggering 9 million tons of plastic waste, 32% of which leaks out of collecting systems and ends up in the soil and ocean. Choosing a more sustainable alternative to this harmful packaging cycle is the key to curbing the environmental waste crisis.
But do consumers want more sustainable packaging options? Simply put, yes. Today’s consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, seeking brands that share their values and make a genuine commitment to sustainability. In a recent study by NielsenIQ, 78% of US consumers said that a sustainable lifestyle is important to them. And more specifically, sustainable packaging is something that matters to consumers: 60% of respondents in a McKinsey survey say they would pay more for a product with sustainable packaging.
And it’s not just consumer trends driving the push for sustainable packaging. Governments and international organizations are setting regulations and initiatives to curb plastic waste and encourage more sustainable practices. Policies like the European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive and various plastic bans in cities and states worldwide are also impacting companies’ packaging policies and practices.
The EU policy addresses ten items that are responsible for more than 80% of marine litter in Europe, many of which are food packaging:
These regulations are shaping the future of packaging by incentivizing eco-friendly options and phasing out materials that harm the environment. For companies, adopting sustainable packaging early can ensure compliance, avoid penalties, and keep them ahead of industry shifts.
In short, sustainable food packaging is designed to reduce negative environmental impact by using recyclable materials, compostable or biodegradable materials, or materials that use less resources such as water soluble packaging. Let’s break down the key characteristics of sustainable food packaging:
Biodegradable and compostable materials are designed to break down naturally, reducing waste and preventing pollution. Biodegradable materials decompose over time through natural processes, usually aided by microorganisms, sunlight, or moisture. Compostable materials are a subset of biodegradable options. They break down even faster and transform into nutrient-rich compost when processed in a composting facility or sometimes even in home composting systems. Biodegradable and compostable options lower the demand for petroleum-based plastics, making them an environmentally friendly choice for both companies and consumers.
Using materials from renewable sources, such as paper, cardboard, or plant-based bioplastics, is another option to achieve sustainable packaging. Renewable resources can be replenished naturally, meaning they have a lower environmental impact over their lifecycle compared to finite resources like petroleum. Bioplastics, for example, are made from plants like corn or sugarcane, making them a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
Recyclable materials also play a vital role, as they can be processed and repurposed into new products after use, preventing waste from ending up in landfills. Packaging that is easily recyclable supports circular economy practices, allowing materials to be reused multiple times. While recyclable materials are a step in the right direction when it comes to reducing pollution from food packaging, brands should consider that it’s not an infallible solution.
Reduction is reducing the amount of material used to make packaging, and has shown to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% (versus just 2-3% for recycling). What does reduction in packaging look like? It may involve reducing the size of packaging, using dissolvable materials, eliminating unnecessary components, or opting for designs that can serve multiple purposes (such as packaging that doubles as storage).
Reduced packaging doesn’t just benefit the environment; it also helps to offset supply chain and sourcing strain, as fewer materials can go a longer way in production. This streamlined approach appeals to consumers who are increasingly wary of excessive packaging and prefer brands that make conscious efforts to reduce waste.
This is supported by the data: an interesting trend from a recent McKinsey study on whether sustainability claims made a difference with consumer spending found that products with less common claims (think water-soluble) grew 8.5% more than more common ones (“sustainable packaging,” “plant-based”).
So, what are the types of sustainable packaging materials? Understanding the landscape of sustainable packaging can help you decide which is the right option depending on production needs.
Typically made from biodegradable polymers or other natural materials, water-soluble packaging materials break down and disperse into harmless components when immersed in water. Water-soluble packaging is an excellent choice for a more sustainable option as they significantly reduce plastic waste and pollution while offering the same functionality as traditional packaging.
SmartSolve’s water-soluble packaging materials are made from wood pulp fibers and cellulose. Traditional materials accumulate in landfills as waste, but water-soluble materials utilize existing infrastructure—such as drains, sewage systems, or toilets—to break down and return to nature.
Typically made from bioplastics, paper, or plant-based materials, biodegradable packaging can break down into natural substances (like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass) over time. The most commonly used biodegradable packaging materials are cardboard and bio-based polymers. However, biodegradable materials require specific environmental conditions to break down efficiently.
Compostable packaging is a subset of biodegradable packaging. Like biodegradable materials, compostable options are made from materials that break down naturally into non-toxic components, like water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter. Compostable packaging is designed to disintegrate quickly in composting facilities or even in some home compost systems, leaving no harmful residues behind.
While it’s easy to conflate the two, there is an important distinction between compostable and biodegradable packaging. Compostable packaging needs a specific environment to degrade, which includes warm temperatures, nutrients, moisture and oxygen.
What’s more, the term “compostable” can be broken down further into two subsets – home compostable and industrial compostable. The difference between these two designations is in the conditions required to effectively break down the materials. Home compostable materials decompose under natural, lower-temperature conditions that can be achieved in backyard compost bins or piles. They usually break down within 6–12 months, depending on the compost setup, climate, and specific material. Industrial compostable materials, on the other hand, require more stringent conditions, requiring a commercial or industrial facility which offers specific high-heat, high-humidity, and aerated conditions that accelerate decomposition.
Derived from renewable sources like corn starch, sugar cane and other plant-based materials, bioplastics can be designed to be biodegradable packaging options, reducing environmental impact compared to their fossil fuel-based alternatives. This material is often used as a sustainable packaging alternative, with nearly 50% of all bioplastics produced in the EU used for packaging production.
A newer trend in sustainable packaging is edible packaging. Made from natural, food-grade materials like seaweed, rice, or mushrooms, edible packaging provides a zero-waste alternative to traditional packaging. It’s particularly popular for single-use items like condiment packets, snack wrappers, or beverage pods.
Transitioning to more sustainable packaging doesn’t have to be a massive undertaking. It’s also well worth your while, as consumers are making their preferences for sustainable packaging clear with their wallets. As demonstrated, sustainable food packaging is as – if not more – effective than traditional packaging, and it’s on the rise around the world with consumers and producers alike.
On the other hand, keeping the status quo by continuing to leverage only fossil fuel-based packaging materials might lead to brands falling behind as the market transitions to options with a lighter environmental footprint.
To transition to more sustainable food packaging alternatives, consider taking a couple of simple steps:
Start with small changes, like switching one product line or part of the packaging to a sustainable option. This incremental improvement in the sustainability of your packaging goes a long way in both demonstrating commitment to customers to more eco-friendly products as well as reducing environmental footprint in a meaningful way. It also gives you market insights into consumer feedback and new processes.
Partnering with suppliers who prioritize eco-friendly practices is crucial to building a truly sustainable packaging strategy. Choose suppliers that use renewable energy in production, adhere to strict environmental standards, or implement circular economy principles, like reusing materials or reducing waste in their processes. By partnering with suppliers committed to sustainability, you can also strengthen your supply chain’s resilience against future regulatory changes and shifting consumer demands for greener products.
The path to sustainable food packaging is possible – and inevitable. As consumers increasingly vote with their wallets demanding more eco-friendly options, brands can adapt their packaging strategies to meet their customers where they are while having a positive impact on the environment and adhere to sustainability standards.
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