Not sure which type of mailer is best for your brand? Here's what your business should know about choosing between noissue Recycled, Kraft, and Compostable Mailers.
Compostable packaging is a type of packaging material that follows the principles of the circular economy.
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Instead of the traditional ‘take-make-waste’ linear model used in commerce, compostable packaging is designed to be disposed of in a responsible way that has a lower impact on the planet.
While compostable packaging is a material many businesses and consumers are familiar with, there still some misunderstandings about this eco-friendly packaging alternative.
Are you thinking about using compostable packaging in your business? It pays to know as much as possible about this type of material so you can communicate with and educate customers on the right ways to dispose of it after use. In this guide, you'll learn:
Let's get into it!
Compostable packaging is packaging that will break down naturally when left in the right environment. Unlike traditional plastic packaging, it is made from organic materials that break down in a reasonable period of time and leave no toxic chemicals or harmful particles behind. Compostable packaging can be made from three types of materials: paper, cardboard or bioplastics.
Learn more about other types of circular packaging materials (recycled and reusable) here.
Bioplastics are plastics that are bio-based (made from a renewable resource, like vegetables), biodegradable (able to break down naturally) or a combination of both. Bioplastics help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels for plastic production and can be made from corn, soybeans, wood, used cooking oil, algae, sugarcane and more. One of the most commonly used bioplastics in packaging is PLA.
PLA stands for polylactic acid. PLA is a compostable thermoplastic derived from plant extracts like cornstarch or sugarcane and is carbon-neutral, edible and biodegradable. It’s a more natural alternative to fossil fuels, but it’s also a virgin (new) material that has to be extracted from the environment. PLA disintegrates completely when it breaks down rather than crumbling into harmful micro-plastics.
PLA is made by growing a crop of plants, like corn, and then is broken down into starch, protein and fiber to create PLA. While this is a much less harmful extraction process than traditional plastic, which is created through fossil fuels, this is still resource-intensive and one criticism of PLA is it takes away land and plants that are used to feed people.
Considering using compostable packaging? There are both advantages and drawbacks of using this type of material, so it pays to weigh up the pros and cons for your business.
Compostable packaging has a smaller carbon footprint than traditional plastic. The bioplastics used in compostable packaging produce significantly fewer greenhouse gasses over their lifetime than traditional fossil-fuel produced plastics. PLA as a bioplastic takes 65% less energy to produce than traditional plastic and generates 68% fewer greenhouse gasses.
Bioplastics and other types of compostable packaging break down extremely fast when compared to traditional plastic, which can take more than years to decompose. noissue’s Compostable Mailers are TUV Austria certified to break down within 90 days in a commercial compost and 180 days in a home compost.
In terms of circularity, compostable packaging breaks down into nutrient-rich materials that can be used as a fertilizer around the home to improve soil health and strengthen environmental ecosystems.
Compostable plastic packaging needs the right conditions in a home or commercial compost in order to be able to decay and complete its end-of-life cycle. Disposing of it in the incorrect way can have harmful consequences as if a customer puts it in their normal rubbish or recycling, it will end up in a landfill and may release methane. This greenhouse gas is 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
Composting packaging requires more knowledge and effort on the customer’s end to successfully dispose of it. Easily accessible composting facilities aren’t as widespread as recycling facilities, so this may pose a challenge for someone who doesn’t know how to compost. Education being passed on from businesses to their customer base is key.
It is also important to note that compostable packaging is made of organic materials, which means it has a shelf life of 9 months if stored correctly in a cool, dry place. It must be kept out of direct sunlight and away from humid conditions in order to be intact and preserved for this amount of time.
Traditional plastic packaging comes from a non-renewable resource: petroleum. To source this fossil fuel and break it down after use isn't an easy process for our environment.
Extracting petroleum from our planet creates a large carbon footprint and once the plastic packaging is discarded, it contaminates the environment around it by breaking down into micro-plastics. It is also non-biodegradable, as it can take more than years to decompose in a landfill.
⚠️ Plastic packaging is the main contributor to plastic waste in our landfills and is responsible for almost half of the global total.
Paper is safe to use in a compost because it is a fully natural and renewable resource created from trees and can be broken down over time. The only time you might encounter a problem composting paper is when it is colored with certain dyes or has a glossy coating, as this can release toxic chemicals during the decaying process. Packaging like noissue’s Compostable Tissue Paper is home compost-safe because the paper is Forest Stewardship Council certified, lignin and sulfur-free and uses soy-based inks, which are eco-friendly and don’t release chemicals as they break down.
Cardboard is compostable because it’s a source of carbon and helps with a compost’s carbon-nitrogen ratio. This provides the microorganisms in a compost heap with the nutrients and energy they need to turn these materials into compost. noissue’s Kraft Boxes and Kraft Mailers are great additions to your compost heap. Cardboard should be mulched (shredded and soaked with water) and then it will break down reasonably quickly. On average, it should take about 3 months.
noissue has a wide range of packaging products that be composted. Here, we'll break it down by material type.
Custom Tissue Paper. Our tissue uses FSC-certified, acid and lignin-free paper that's printed using soy-based inks.
Custom Foodsafe Paper. Our foodsafe paper is printed on FSC-certified paper with water-based foodsafe inks.
Custom Stickers. Our stickers use FSC-certified, acid-free paper and are printed using soy-based inks.
Stock Kraft Tape. Our tape is made using recycled Kraft paper.
Custom Washi Tape. Our tape is made from rice paper using a non-toxic adhesive and printed with non-toxic inks.
Stock Shipping Labels. Our shipping labels are made from FSC-certified recycled paper.
Custom Kraft Mailers. Our mailers are made from 100% FSC-certified recycled Kraft paper and printed with water-based inks.
Stock Kraft Mailers. Our mailers are made from 100% FSC-certified recycled Kraft paper.
Custom Printed Cards. Our cards are made from FSC-certified paper and printed with soy-based inks.
Compostable Mailers. Our mailers are TUV Austria certified and made from PLA and PBAT, a bio-based polymer. They are certified to break down within six months at home and three months in a commercial environment.
Custom Shipping Boxes. Our boxes are made from recycled Kraft E-flute board and printed with HP indigo compostable inks.
Stock Shipping Boxes. Our boxes are made from 100% recycled Kraft E-flute board.
Custom Hang Tags. Our hang tags are made from FSC-certified recycled card stock and printed with soy or HP non-toxic inks.
Your customers have two options for composting their packaging at its end-of-life: they can find a composting facility near their home (this could be an industrial or community facility) or they can compost packaging themselves at home.
North America: Find a commercial facility with Find a Composter.
United Kingdom: Find a commercial facility on Veolia or Envar's websites, or check out the Recycle Now site for local collection options.
Australia: Find a collection service through the Australia Industry Association for Organics Recycling website or donate to someone else's home compost through ShareWaste.
Europe: Varies by country. Visit local goverment websites for more information.
To help people on their home composting journey, we've created two guides:
If you need help educating your customers on how to compost at home, these articles are full of tips and tricks. We'd recommend sending the article along to your customers, or repurposing some of the information for your own communications!
We hope this guide has helped shed some light on this wonderful sustainable packaging material! Compostable packaging has pros and cons, but overall, this material is one of the most environmentally friendly solutions we’ve got in the fight against plastic packaging.
Interested in learning more about other types of circular packaging materials? Check out these guides on our Reusable and Recycle frameworks and products. Now's the perfect time to replace plastic packaging with a more sustainable alternative! Read this article to learn about PLA and bioplastic packaging.
In today's world, where environmental consciousness is on the rise, eco-friendly packaging has become a top priority for businesses. Consumers are actively seeking brands that prioritize sustainability and are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. As a result, businesses are constantly innovating and exploring new ways to design and produce their products with minimal impact on the environment. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various eco-friendly packaging materials that can help your business make a positive impact while reducing costs. At FittDesign, we specialize in custom packaging design solutions tailored to your brand's needs. If you're ready to change your packaging and make a positive impact, contact us today.
Eco-friendly packaging refers to packaging materials that are designed to have minimal impact on the environment. These materials are typically made from renewable resources, can be recycled or composted, and do not release harmful chemicals during their production or disposal. Eco-friendly packaging aims to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize pollution.
The need for eco-friendly packaging has become increasingly crucial in recent years. According to a study, 37% of consumers in the United States prioritize sustainability when making purchasing decisions. Additionally, 51% of supply chain professionals expect the circular economy to gain popularity in the next two years, and 30% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that deliver on sustainability claims. By adopting eco-friendly packaging, businesses can align with consumer values, enhance brand reputation, and contribute to a healthier planet.
There is a wide range of eco-friendly packaging materials available to businesses today. Let's explore some of the most popular options:
Recycled paper , commonly known as cardboard, is a versatile and widely used eco-friendly packaging material. It is made from wood fibers that come from other paper products, which have been beaten down and turned back into pulp. Recycled paper pulp is most commonly used in the form of corrugated cardboard or card stock. By choosing recycled paper pulp packaging, businesses can reduce their reliance on virgin materials and promote a circular economy.
Link to Yifu Packaging
Cardboard Packaging
Compostable packaging is designed to break down naturally and leave no harmful chemicals behind. It is typically made from plant-based materials such as corn, sugar cane, bamboo, and/or bio-poly mailers. Compostable packaging should ideally break down in home compost within 180 days or in commercial facilities within 90 days. Brands can choose certified compostable packaging materials to ensure their commitment to sustainability.
Compostable Packaging
Mushroom packaging is a sustainable alternative to Styrofoam. It is made from agricultural waste held together by mycelium, which is the root structure of mushrooms. Mushroom packaging is entirely biodegradable and can safely hold products in place during shipping. Brands like Keap, a candle subscription company, have successfully implemented mushroom packaging to reduce their environmental impact.
Mushroom Packaging
Kraft paper is manufactured from wood pulp and is more sustainable than regular paper. It uses all types of wood, including resinous pine, which is typically left out in the production of regular paper products. The manufacturing process of kraft paper is more sustainable, as almost all of the chemicals used can be reused. Brands can choose custom kraft mailers that are 100% FSC-certified, ensuring the use of sustainably grown and harvested paper pulp.
Kraft Paper Packaging
Cornstarch packaging is made from renewable sources and does not contain harmful toxins. It is biodegradable and can be used as an alternative to traditional packaging materials like bubble wrap and styrofoam. Cornstarch can also be used to make biodegradable packing peanuts, providing cushioning for products during shipping.
Biodegradable Packing Peanuts
Glassine is a smooth and glossy paper that can be used for transparent packaging. It is made from wood pulp, making it recyclable and biodegradable. Glassine is pH-neutral and acid-free, making it a popular choice for brands that require transparent paper packaging.
Glassine Packaging
Cellulose packaging is made from natural sources like hemp, wood, and cotton. It is biodegradable and compostable, making it a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging. Cellulose packaging is particularly favored in the food industry due to its moisture-resistant properties.
Cellulose Packages
Green Cell Foam is a bio-based foam material made from US-grown corn. It is compostable and can be dissolved in water or composted at home or in industrial facilities. Green cell foam provides cushioning for products during shipping and is a great alternative to traditional foam materials.
Green Cell Foam
Adopting eco-friendly packaging materials offers numerous benefits for businesses and the environment. Some key benefits include:
By using eco-friendly packaging, businesses can reduce their reliance on non-renewable resources and minimize waste. This helps conserve natural resources and protect the environment by reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. By using eco-friendly packaging, businesses can enhance their brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
Keap Mushroom Packaging
Eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recycled paper pulp and compostable packaging, can often be more cost-effective in the long run. By reducing waste and adopting sustainable practices, businesses can save on packaging costs and potentially attract cost-conscious customers.
As governments and regulatory bodies prioritize sustainability, businesses may face stricter regulations regarding packaging materials. By proactively adopting eco-friendly packaging, businesses can ensure compliance with current and future regulations.
In a crowded marketplace, eco-friendly packaging can help businesses differentiate themselves from competitors. By showcasing their commitment to sustainability, businesses can attract environmentally conscious consumers and gain a competitive advantage.
Now that you understand the benefits and options available for eco-friendly packaging, you may be wondering how to implement it in your business. Here are some steps you can take:
Start by evaluating your current packaging materials and identifying areas where eco-friendly alternatives can be implemented. Consider factors such as product requirements, shipping methods, and customer expectations.
Thoroughly research eco-friendly packaging suppliers and choose those that align with your values and sustainability goals. Look for certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure that your packaging materials are sourced ethically and sustainably.
Work with packaging designers and engineers to optimize your packaging design for sustainability. Consider factors such as material efficiency, minimalistic design, and ease of recyclability or compostability. At FittDesign we create custom, eco-friendly packaging that looks good & feels good for the planet
Communicate your commitment to eco-friendly packaging to your customers. Educate them about the benefits of sustainable packaging and how they can play a role in reducing environmental impact. Encourage them to recycle or compost packaging materials whenever possible.
Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your eco-friendly packaging initiatives. Measure key metrics such as waste reduction, customer feedback, and cost savings. Use this data to identify areas for improvement and refine your sustainability strategies.
Eco-friendly packaging is not only a responsible choice but also a strategic one for businesses. By adopting sustainable packaging materials, businesses can reduce their environmental impact, enhance their brand reputation, and attract environmentally conscious consumers. Whether it's recycled paper pulp, compostable packaging, or mushroom packaging, there are numerous options available to suit different business needs. By taking proactive steps towards implementing eco-friendly packaging, businesses can contribute to a greener future while reaping the benefits of cost savings and competitive advantage.
Transform your brand's packaging with FittDesign! Enhance your product's appeal with our expert packaging design services and seamless manufacturing solutions. Ready to make a statement on the shelves?Contact us today!
Make the switch to eco-friendly packaging today and be a part of the solution for a sustainable future.
Reference:
https://noissue.co/blog/environmentally-friendly-packaging-materials/
https://starprintvn.com/9-eco-friendly-packaging-alternatives-for-your-business/
https://packhelp.com/eco-friendly-packaging-materials/
https://medium.com/@kimecopak/eco-packaging-a-guide-for-businesses-transitioning-to-sustainability-61bd85d5fe5a
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