Green doesn’t mean compromise

With the concern of our planet becoming more and more polluted with each piece of plastic and other non-recyclable materials we disperse into the environment, many companies who package products across the world have adjusted their manufacturing to become greener.

What is green packaging?

Green packaging, also known as sustainable packaging, relates to the use of materials used for packaging goods that have a low impact on the environment. Unlike traditional packaging materials, green packaging falls into one of three categories.

• biodegradable - They decompose in a natural, environmentally friendly way.
• recyclable – These materials can be made into something else useful.
• reusable – Some green packaging items can be used again for the same purpose.

Going green means less profit. True or false?

Here’s a spoiler. False. There’s a belief in the packaging world that switching to a sustainable packaging solution will increase manufacturing costs and therefore lower profits. We understand that when packaging is your business, cost vs impact is at the forefront of your mind. The good news is this isn’t necessarily the case, and we’ll show you why going green doesn’t mean your bottom line is destroyed.

The benefits of green packaging

1.Save money and impress customers

Green packaging products tend to be made from lightweight materials, which can help you save on shipping costs. In addition to this, a commitment to helping the environment goes a long way with your customers. Lightweight, sustainable solutions that cut down on waste can really set your company apart from others. Your brand will become more respectable and trustworthy, boosting customer loyalty.

2. Increase in sales

When customers are looking to make a purchase, there are several factors they consider, and the environment is a huge part that shouldn’t be overlooked. A survey conducted in 2016, found that millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable goods.

3. Minimise your carbon footprint

The emissions that we produce have quite the impact on the world we live in, whether you believe in global warming or not, many scientists believe this has a negative impact on our ozone layer. Not only will certain packaging materials produce less CO2 when being manufactured, but the size and weight of your packaging materials will reduce your transport emissions.

4. Reduce health risks

Conventional packaging materials serve some health and safety risks. For example, Styrofoam contains the chemical styrene, which has been linked to several issues such as vision and hearing loss, impaired memory, cancer and more. When it comes to green packaging, the use of natural materials minimises exposure to potentially harmful toxins and chemicals.

Go green or pay more tax

In 2022, businesses will have to pay taxes on the manufacture and import of plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled materials. Switching to a green packaging solution now will make sure you are prepared.

Here are some alternatives to packaging products you can use to cut down on plastics.

• Paper void fill instead of air bag void fill
• Paper mailing bags instead of polythene mailing bags
• Paper tape instead of a plastic based tape
• Corrugated paper instead of bubble wrap

To conclude

At Swiftpak we make it our business to help our customers. If going green with sustainable packaging is right for you, we’ll let you know. Get in touch today to see if sustainable packaging works for your products.