Why brand owners need to offer sustainable packaging
Consumers and brands are putting more emphasis on sustainable packaging than ever before. The term 'eco-friendly packaging' is clearly more than a buzzword. It is becoming a norm for every industry.
So let's dive into the world of sustainable packaging, and understand the importance of it in this article. You will also get some tips on how your brand can implement sustainability strategies into your business.
What is sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging is packaging that, in the long run, reduces its environmental footprint and impact on the environment. This means the packaging can be recycled and reused after its first use. By performing a better life cycle in the environment, you are aligning your brand with customer expectations.
For packaging to be considered sustainable, the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) offers the following 8 criteria:
What is sustainable packaging design?
Sustainable packaging design is to design product packaging that minimizes the impact on the environment and gives the packaging a second life for another purpose.
You can accomplish this by using recycled materials and designing your packaging to serve another purpose.
For instance, this shoe packaging design from SKINS transforms into a multi-purpose accessories organizer.
Not only is this shoe packaging made from eco-friendly materials, but its reusable design concepts turn into real practice strongly promote sustainability and less waste.
As a result, brands benefit from sustainable design that is re-usable among their customers.
Why is sustainability becoming a necessity today?
The importance of sustainability can be attributed to a number of factors.
Consumers' raising awareness of packaging waste
There has been evidence that consumers are increasingly considering sustainability when making purchasing decisions.
A survey by CGS (a global provider of business applications, enterprise learning and outsourcing services），of 1,000 U.S. consumers found that almost 70% of respondents regarded sustainability as at least “somewhat important” and almost half (47%) said they would pay 25% more for sustainable products.
Millennials, in particular, expect brands to be socially and environmentally responsible, which includes reducing packaging waste and choosing eco-friendly sustainable packaging materials.
Companies are also raising their sustainability standards
According to Gartner (a technological research and consulting firm based in Stamford, United States), 51% of supply chain professionals believe the circular economy will gain popularity in the next two years due to the pandemic, consumer expectations, and a need to increase supply chain resiliency
Governments are responding to public pressure
A variety of regulations are being implemented to minimize environmental waste and improve waste-management processes on all continents to address public concerns regarding packaging waste, especially single-use packaging waste.
Most developed countries and regions are introducing regulations to drive sustainability. However, Europe has done better than some other regions on sustainability.
A new EU directive on single-use plastics was announced in May 2019 to reduce leakages of the ten most common single-use plastic products. The European Union already has robust recycling regulations, but some countries (especially France, Germany, and the United Kingdom) are going beyond them with Extended Producer Responsibilities (EPRs). Countries like these are setting higher recycling targets, introducing fees for non-recyclable packaging, and enacting additional legislation like using only recyclable packaging.
Implement sustainable packaging strategies for your business
Packaging is no exception to the trend of sustainability in today's society. To build a strong brand narrative and serve their customers' needs, many brands are opting for more sustainable packaging solutions. Here are some useful tips for your business to move to green packaging.
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Share general best practices with your customers by clearly labeling reusable or recyclable sign on your packaging.
Imagine this situation in a retail store:
A consumer is holding 2 products in their hand; one is your brand, and another is your competitor. This customer is in the "buying stage" and is trying to figure out which one is superior. And your packaging has a well-placed statement of sustainability sign: "This packaging is made from 100% recycled material and will break down into non-toxic organic matter in 15 years."
Guess which product he or she is going to choose? -- Yours
The main recommendation for going sustainable quickly is to eliminate plastic from your packaging and instead opt for paper. Paper is renewable and biodegradable, so it's a better material.
It's important to choose FSC-certified paper for paper packaging, which can only be obtained from responsibly sourced wood fibers.
Additionally, unbleached kraft paper provides your product with the support and durability it needs for protection. Opting for this type of paper ensures your packaging remains sustainable.
Take a moment to think about the amount of materials used in a packaging design and the possible purposes after first use.
There are probably other materials that go inside the package for cushioning and protection that may counteract your sustainable initiative, regardless of whether it's sustainable perfume packaging or sustainable cosmetics packaging.
Ask yourself questions like: what materials can be removed safely without risk of damage, and how much of each is needed? Is there any regulation or restrictions regarding a particular type of packaging? How can this packaging serve as a second life after purchase? A jewelery organizer? A photo album or something else.
Consider working with manufacturers that prioritize sustainability. You can find out more about a supplier's manufacturing processes and practices before signing an agreement with them. Are they using sustainable materials? How are they reducing their environmental and carbon footprint?
Green packaging is the future
Since Millennials are likely to be the main driving force behind spending in the future, companies should take advantage of each opportunity to provide sustainable packaging. You need to determine the right approach to meet this standard.
Whether it's switching vendors, using eco-friendly materials, or optimizing your supply chain, you need to ensure that your initiatives stick. By starting small, measuring their effects, and then expanding, you can achieve the best results.
With Ketsana Pack, you will discover sustainable packaging options that meet these needs. Reach out today to discover your sustainable packaging options.
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