We ask a lot of packaging. When we pick packaging, we need it to be functional, affordable, and also protective — to get our goods from point A to point B safely and efficiently. For years, sustainability in packaging was thought of as a bonus, but now, it’s just as much of a focal point when making packaging decisions.
Today, both brands and consumers highly prioritize environmentally responsible packaging. In our day-to-day, it’s certainly top of mind for our clients and in our own business. Research from McKinsey shows that 55% of consumers are concerned about the environmental impacts of packaging, and 70% of buyers would pay more for sustainable options.
Reducing packaging waste is possible, and, as an industry, it’s our responsibility. “Eco-friendly” is more than just a buzzword; it’s a way of conducting business.
As a resource for our dealers, partners, and clients, we’ve pulled together a list of sustainable packaging tips and ways to decrease waste in your supply chain.
- Use Recycled and Recyclable Materials: This is a great first place to start. Using packaging materials made from recycled content—and ensuring they are recyclable after use—is a great step towards increased sustainability. Materials like corrugated cardboard, paperboard, and molded pulp are commonly used in packaging and are recyclable. When in doubt about making a sustainable choice, always choose paper over plastic.
- Choose Biodegradable and Compostable Materials: Opting for biodegradable and compostable packaging materials helps reduce waste and environmental impact. Materials such as bioplastics, compostable films, and packaging made from agricultural waste or mushroom mycelium are gaining popularity.
- Simplify Your Packaging: Simplifying packaging design by minimizing the use of materials can also reduce waste. Using less packaging, eliminating unnecessary components, and optimizing packaging size can all decrease your environmental footprint. By simplifying your packaging, you can also save on shipping and freight costs!
- Ask yourself “Is it reusable?”: Implementing reusable packaging solutions can significantly reduce waste on both the consumer and the business end. In your supply chain, reuse as many pallets, totes, IBCS, trays, and tanks as possible. Some packaging materials simply cannot be reused on the consumer end, but materials like glass, cloth, jars, cardboard and others can find a new purpose post-purchase. If you’d like your consumers to try and reuse a product a certain way, let them know!
- Get Rightsizing Right: Ensuring the packaging size closely (and safely) matches the product dimensions helps minimize excess materials and void fill use. This has to be done carefully to avoid damages leading to further waste, but when executed correctly can save your business time, material, and money.
- Opt for Eco-Friendly Cushioning: Choosing cushioning materials made from sustainable sources, such as recycled paper, cardboard, or biodegradable materials, can eliminate plastic use for a more eco-friendly package.
- Collaborate With Your Suppliers: Businesses can work closely with packaging suppliers to source sustainable materials and explore innovative packaging solutions. Collaborative efforts can lead to the development of new eco-friendly options tailored to suit your needs.
- Give Instructions: Providing clear instructions to consumers on properly disposing of or recycling packaging materials can encourage responsible behavior and ensure the materials end up in the appropriate waste streams. People will appreciate the extra thought and care when they see your note.
- Address Your Own Supply Chain: How are you thinking sustainably in your own business aside from packaging? How could you be using energy more efficiently or cutting back on excess waste? Sustainability is not a quick fix, it only happens when the supply chain works in tandem with the product.
At Dehnco, we offer warehouse equipment solutions to support your packaging operations. Our workstations, shelving units, and carts can be designed to store and transport a variety of packaging materials, ensuring your workers get the job done safely, efficiently, and sustainably. Call us today for your free consultation.
