{"id":2379,"date":"2022-06-27T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-06-27T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/sustainable-packaging-and-how-it-affects-your-business\/"},"modified":"2024-11-22T10:23:05","modified_gmt":"2024-11-22T15:23:05","slug":"sustainable-packaging-affecting-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/sustainable-packaging-affecting-business\/","title":{"rendered":"Sustainable Packaging and How it Affects Your Business"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/master-guide-book-for-packaging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/uncategorized\/2023_09_Minimize-environmental-of-packaging-pdf-download.jpg\" alt=\"Download the master guide on how to minimize the environmental impact of packaging\" class=\"wp-image-15162\" title=\"Stickers and Labels\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Increased efforts in implementing green initiatives all around the world have been growing at an exponential rate, and there\u2019s no sign of stopping any time soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sustainable initiatives have improved and developed over the years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now it is a standard in our culture, affecting&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nielsen.com\/us\/en\/insights\/reports\/2018\/unpacking-the-sustainability-landscape.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">consumer spending habits and decisions<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sustainable packaging is on the rise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now is the time for you to join the movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumers today are all about sustainability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They are making conscious decisions and are willing to pay a premium for&nbsp;green&nbsp;products. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/uncategorized\/2023_05_straws-pkg-opened-1024x731.jpeg\" alt=\"example of sustainable product\" class=\"wp-image-12174\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-kraft-boxes.html\">PakFactory<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>New packaging&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/packaging-industry-trends-2023\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trends<\/a>&nbsp;are on the rise, and companies of all sizes need to be aware of it in today\u2019s market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With visible changes to our environment, it is now more important than ever to understand sustainability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So what does this mean for your company, your packaging manufacturer and supplier?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197362\" id=\"What-is-Sustainable-Packaging?-\">What is Sustainable Packaging?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the first impressions that consumers will have of your company is your packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Packaging can be the perfect way to deliver your company\u2019s message to the consumer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An appealing design can attract attention and make the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/consumers-unboxing-videos\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unboxing experience&nbsp;<\/a>more exciting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But there is so much more than that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In today\u2019s marketplace, consumers want transparency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Customers want to know exactly where your company is producing its packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Will the material make a negative impact on the environment? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Was the material sourced ethically? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Was the process used to print the packaging, sustainable? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The process and materials used for your packaging is an essential factor and can affect your consumer\u2019s impression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is as crucial to be sustainable as having a great design.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/uncategorized\/2023_05_earthology-pkg-snack-pack-731x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"example of good sustainable design\" class=\"wp-image-12177\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-kraft-boxes.html\">PakFactory<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The packaging must be recyclable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether recycling at home or the local depot, the process of recycling must be accessible and efficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to sustainable packaging is that it needs to have a low impact on our environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197382\" id=\"Elements-of-Sustainable-Packaging\">Elements of Sustainable Packaging<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197385\">Kraft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/what-is-kraft-paper\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kraft paper<\/a>&nbsp;is 100% sustainable, and among one of the most popular packaging materials in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is much more sustainable to manufacture kraft paper compared to regular paper. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kraft is produced from all-natural ingredients such as pulp from all types of wood, while conventional paper uses specific woods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bleaching is also not involved, which maintains the strength of the paper and decreases manufacturing costs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kraft paper is also a lightweight packaging material that helps keep a low shipping cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197397\">Molded Pulp<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This material is no stranger to sustainable packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A growing sustainability trend of large and small brands alike are opting to use molded pulp more often than other packaging options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Created with paper fibers, either virgin or recycled, molded pulp is one of the most sustainable packaging options on the market right now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is very common to find electronics and home appliance companies use&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-molded-pulp-inserts.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">molded pulp inserts<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protective and thermoforming capabilities of this material allow for more packaging options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is perfect for products that come in any shape or size.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.apple.com\/environment\/pdf\/Packaging_and_Forestry_September_2017.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">report<\/a>&nbsp;from Apple shows that they\u2019ve increased the use of recycled fibers by 30%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This reduced the amount of plastic in their packaging for the iPhone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197411\">Foams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A considerable part of the packaging industry is the use of foams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Packaging foams are material used in different levels of the industry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is used as a duo-purpose protective layer, as well as to organize small products to provide an excellent presentation. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/uncategorized\/2023_05_black-rigid-w-foam-insert-731x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"example of foam box insert\" class=\"wp-image-12176\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-foam-inserts.html\">PakFactory<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>But, foams were not always the most environmentally friendly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the subject of sustainable packaging continues to rise, biodegradable and paper&nbsp;<em>foam<\/em>&nbsp;alternatives have been developed to replace this material. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since the market for sustainability is growing, it is beneficial for smaller companies to ride the momentum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197423\">Plastics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When talking about packaging, it\u2019s hard to ignore plastics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is an even more controversial subject when talking about sustainable packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the British Plastics Federation, plastics make a positive contribution to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.investopedia.com\/articles\/investing\/100515\/three-pillars-corporate-sustainability.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">three pillars of sustainability<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plastics have provided excellent benefits in packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is lightweight, resourceful, and energy-efficient, and offers outstanding durability in comparison to paper options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, using plastic as a packaging material can actually reduce waste and save energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a material that continually finds its way into the packaging industry,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-plastic-tray-inserts.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">plastic trays inserts<\/a>&nbsp;or blister packs are often used in product packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plastic is easy to mold with heat, and most are recyclable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many companies today incentivize their customers to return plastic product containers to retail locations so that the companies can grind, reform, and reuse the plastic into new product containers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although plastics may be a viable packaging option, the goal remains the same: to cut the use of plastics completely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Governments around the world have taken action to ban or discourage single-use plastics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the last decade, too much plastic waste has found its way into the ocean, affecting wildlife and destroying ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As of May 2019, the United Nations Environmental Programme has confirmed 100 million tons of plastic waste found in the ocean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>80-90% had come from land-based sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When we do use plastics, we need to make sure that it is actively being reused and recycled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197455\">Inks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The use of sustainable inks is a rising trend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These inks will no longer need heavy metals like lead and mercury. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most significant difference is the reduction or complete removal of volatile organic compounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These compounds produce gases that are hazardous to both the environment and human health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"cnvs-block-core-paragraph-1584386197465\">Although energy-saving initiatives are in place, biodegradable inks have been the most impactful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"cnvs-block-core-paragraph-1656511825626\">These inks use organic vegetable oils. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"cnvs-block-core-paragraph-1656511827939\">The result is a reduced impact on the environment and allows lower energy consumption during the recycling process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197470\">Sourcing and Production<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only should the materials be sustainable, but we should also consider how it\u2019s sourced. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Energy efficiency and the process throughout the production are also critical considerations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PakFactory\u2019s partnership with the National Forest Foundation is an effort to help replenish trees lost from overconsumption and natural causes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper is such a fundamental material in packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/uncategorized\/2023_05_studio-g-kraft-rigid-opened-1024x731.jpeg\" alt=\"example of sustainable material\" class=\"wp-image-12171\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-rigid-setup-boxes.html\">PakFactory<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>We can maintain a valuable source of raw material used in all industries by keeping low to a moderate consumption rate, and by using a replenish-able source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tree farms are a sustainable solution where trees are privately managed and maintained. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These farms provide an almost limitless amount of resources to produce paper products. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Production will need to involve energy-saving solutions to cut the impact on the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197493\">Minimal Design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For your packaging to be sustainable, you also need to consider the design as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider using minimal materials for the structure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Optimize your packaging&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/contact-us\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">with a specialist<\/a>&nbsp;to reduce the weight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, maintain structural integrity to endure any rough handling during the shipment process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose your materials wisely to keep the focus on reducing your environmental footprint. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197525\" id=\"What-are-the-consumers-thinking?\">What are the consumers thinking?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sustainability is affecting governments and businesses all around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumers are contributing to this massive trend by becoming more aware of the impact that products have on the environment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies may not change, but the demand for green products and sustainable business practices is growing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses cannot afford to ignore these insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading cnvs-block-core-heading-1584386197535\">The Brandless Era<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumers are no longer brand-oriented, either. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Customers now gravitate towards smaller brands and businesses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The reason for this is that these smaller businesses can meet their needs for sustainability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In today\u2019s market, smaller brands have higher potential and more opportunity to stand-out.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/uncategorized\/2023_05_sohab-pkg-set-in-mailer-731x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"example of small business packaging\" class=\"wp-image-12178\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/custom-chocolate-packaging-boxes.html\">PakFactory<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>When we compare regular products against products made with sustainable practices and materials, the cost is usually the most obvious comparison. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet, as consumers adopt the&nbsp;Healthy for Me, Healthy for the World&nbsp;trend, businesses discover that price is not an issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with inflation, consumers are willing to make the right purchasing decisions by opting for green products and supporting sustainable brands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A study done by Nielsen shows that 49% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality products with visible and existing safety standards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This includes organics, free of antibiotics, hormone-free, and GMO-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sustainability has become an enormous issue over the last decade. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses all over have become more environmentally aware. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumer influence is one of the most substantial driving factors for businesses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is affecting the market more than we may think. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies are taking action and acknowledge their responsibility to pursue sustainable business practices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Professionals and more business owners have emerged as thought leaders on this topic, contributing to an environmental cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall adopting a sustainable packaging strategy is not only beneficial to the environment, but to businesses too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses are able to connect with consumers on a deeper level and work with a purpose driven mindset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PakFactory work with businesses to bring your marketing goals and initiatives to life through packaging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/master-guide-book-for-packaging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pakfactory-blog-media.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com\/blog1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/uncategorized\/2023_09_Minimize-environmental-of-packaging-pdf-download.jpg\" alt=\"Download the master guide on how to minimize the environmental impact of packaging\" class=\"wp-image-15162\" title=\"Stickers and Labels\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Businesses all over the world are participating in green packaging initiatives. Learn how to become an eco-friendly business with sustainable packaging.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":2099,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rank_math_lock_modified_date":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,47,48],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2379","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-packaging-tips","category-sustainability","category-eco-friendly-materials"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2379","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2379"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2379\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3213,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2379\/revisions\/3213"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2099"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2379"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2379"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pakfactory.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2379"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}