How Do I Reduce Plastic in My Packaging?
We all want to do our bit to help the planet, and switching away from plastics is a great place to start. To help we have curated a list of sustainable packaging swaps below:
Outer Shipping
First, we’ve compiled common plastic shipping methods with details on what sustainable packaging options you can switch to.
I am using: Polymailers
Switch to: Heavy-Duty Kraft Mailing Bags
There are a range of weights and sizes of Kraft Mailing Bags to suit your needs, including capacity expansions for shipping bulkier items. It’s best to keep in mind the weight or fragility of your products when selecting your thickness to make sure you have enough protection. Kraft can be easily printed with your design (a common choice is white ink printing which creates a fresh, modern look). They are 100% biodegradable and instantly recognised as sustainable products.
I am using: Plastic Bubble Mailers
Switch to: Eco Padded Mailers
Eco padded mailers come with a variety of padding options. They are padded with 100% recycled content, offering protection for your products and the planet.
I am using: Plastic Tape
Switch to: Peel and Seal or Paper Tape
Peel and Seal strips are a great way to seal your packaging without using excess tape. The package looks neater overall and means any outside design work isn’t affected, leaving more room for branding. Paper Tape is a good option if you want printed or branded tape. However, it is worth keeping in mind that often it has to be water activated to work.
I am using: Cello Bags
Switch to: Tissue Paper
Tissue Paper creates more of a sensory experience than cello bags. Not only does it look more appealing, but it feels more appealing. It can be coloured, branded and can even be greaseproof if required. Tissue paper can also be moulded and cut to size easily, making it a versatile packing option.
Internal Protection
Plastics are often used inside the package to protect the contents from getting broken or damaged in the post. Below are some eco-friendly alternatives to try.
I am using: Bubble Wrap
Switch to: Platforms or Honeycomb Wrap
Platforms easily create the best visual presentation. They can be die-cut for intricate shapes, add shock protection for your products and have more surface for branding. Platforms also take up less storage space than bulky rolls of bubble wrap as they arrive flat-packed. Honeycomb wrap can be wrapped around the product for protection and is made from sustainable materials, meaning it is 100% recyclable.
I am using: Foam/Air Packs/Void Fill
Switch to: Paper Pulp Fitments
Paper pulp fitments are made from recycled pulp and give a snug fit around your products. They spread the weight evenly, adding extra protection from any drops and bumps they may encounter on their way from your warehouse to your customer.
What packaging is completely recyclable and plastic-free?
When you are looking for completely recyclable and plastic-free packaging you want to look for terms such as Corrugated, Kraft, Folding Box Board, Paper over Board, Tissue Paper and Paper Pulp. Another note, if you want to have fully plastic-free and recyclable packaging, is to avoid gloss or matt lamination print. Even though these films are often from eco-friendly materials, the process renders the paper impossible to recycle back to a pulp, meaning more often than not it ends up in landfill. There are alternative varnishes that can be used to create these effects and still be recyclable.