The global emphasis on sustainability has led many companies to transition to more eco-friendly product packaging as a means of helping the environment by reducing the amount of waste created from their product packaging and by assisting businesses in utilizing environmentally responsible business practices. In addition, consumers now expect businesses to utilize eco-friendly product packaging that meets the following requirements: recyclable, biodegradable, and compatible with the current trend of sustainable business practices. Given the large number of suppliers claiming to provide “green” products or materials, the selection of the correct supplier can be a major challenge.
This guide is designed to assist potential buyers in knowing the most important things to consider when choosing an eco-friendly packaging supplier to allow for more informed, environmentally sustainable, and economically viable purchasing decisions.
Why is Eco-Friendly Packaging Important Today?
Choosing to switch to a more eco-friendly packaging alternative is more than just a trendy change; it is an investment in the long-term success of your company or brand. A package that is made of sustainable materials or resources can:
- Minimize the impact of your products on the environment.
- Enhance the image of your company or brand.
- Assist in satisfying consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging options.
- Provide opportunities for long-term cost savings.
- Differentiate your business from competitors within the marketplace.
Consumers prefer to purchase from companies that demonstrate a sense of responsibility to protect the environment; therefore, providing eco-friendly packaging alternatives meets those consumer preferences.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
Not all sustainable packaging types are equal, and therefore, companies should evaluate potential suppliers to determine what materials they offer and how they produce them.
1. Sustainable Materials
Look for sustainable materials made from natural products, like:
Biodegradable options – Kraft paper, PLA, cornstarch
Recycled materials – Cardboard, paperboard, and PET plastic
Compostable options – Bagasse, bamboo fiber, or plant-based materials
Reusable options – Cloth bags and durable containers.
A good eco-friendly packaging supplier will provide transparency to customers regarding where their product comes from and how it can be disposed of at the end of its useful life.
2. High Durability
Eco-friendly packaging needs to be strong enough to protect the product during transport. The following examples illustrate the importance of testing samples for:
- Tear resistance
- Water resistance
- Structural strength
Having durability is not only important for maintaining customer satisfaction, but also for minimizing the amount of product that ends up being wasted during the delivery process.
3. Certifications You Can Trust
A good eco-friendly packaging supplier will be able to provide proof of their product’s compliance with established environmental codes. Examples of certifications available include:
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) – certification relating to the responsible sourcing of paper-based products
Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) – certification relating to the compostable nature of packaging
ASTM standards certification – ASTM is a certification body that determines if a product meets strict environmental standards.
4. Custom Branding Options
A good eco-friendly packaging supplier will offer customers the ability to have a custom image printed onto the packaging material. Other options include:
- Branded prints
- Custom sizing
- Custom shapes
- Custom colours
- Low minimum order quantities (MOQs)
Providing these options ensures that customers are able to maintain both sustainable and attractive packaging for their products.
5. Consistent Production Quality
It is important that eco-friendly packaging suppliers can consistently meet a customer’s production needs via:
- Reliable manufacturing lead times
- Scalable production capabilities
- Clear communication between the supplier and the customer
Customer service reflects professionalism and reliability with respect to how well an eco-friendly packaging supplier meets a customer’s production requirements.
Consider requesting product samples before making orders, and be sure to request documentation of sustainability policies.
Common Mistakes Buyers Should Avoid
When selecting a supplier, some common mistakes buyers make include:
- Selecting the lowest price option.
Usually, a low price is indicative of poor-quality materials due to greenwashing.
- Failing to consider the end-of-life implications.
Be certain that your customers can recycle, compost, or reuse your packaging.
- Not testing samples before purchasing.
Something that looks like eco-friendly packaging might not hold up to the rigors of actual usage.
- Ignoring minimum order quantities (MOQs).
MOQs can greatly impact your budget, so ensure to clarify MOQs at the beginning of your engagement with the supplier.
How to Compare Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
When comparing eco-friendly packaging suppliers, assess each supplier on:
Material Innovations
Are they producing innovative packaging materials (i.e., mushroom packaging and packaging made of seaweed)?
Transparent Pricing
How fair and straightforward is the pricing offered? Does the pricing structure assist in budget forecasting?
Shipping Logistics
What are the lead times, shipping zones, and reliability of the shipping process?
Environmental Commitment
Most eco-friendly packaging suppliers publish their sustainability statements or annual reports, which provide insights into their level of commitment to sustainability.
Remember:
“A top-tier supplier of green packaging not only sells you packaging, but they are your partner to help you build a sustainable brand.”
If your supplier has been a resource and educator for you, and has had good recommendations for sustainable packaging based on your products, you should establish a long-term relationship with this supplier.
Conclusion
The choice to use eco-friendly packaging is one of the most effective ways for a company to embrace sustainability. You should consider the materials used, the suppliers’ certifications and reliability, and the options available for customizing your packaging to stay in line with your company’s values.
Yiruixing Packaging creates high-quality, custom-made, eco-friendly packaging for companies that are committed to being green. You will find innovative products from Yiruixing Packaging that are reliable.
FAQs
What is eco-friendly packaging?
Eco-friendly packaging is made from recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable materials and/or reusable materials. Each helps to lessen the negative effects on the planet.
Is eco-friendly packaging more expensive than regular packaging?
Eco-friendly packaging is considered to be slightly higher in price than normal packaging at the initial purchase. However, since many companies purchase in bulk and have established trust with their suppliers, these prices generally balance out.
How do I confirm if a supplier actually sells eco-friendly packaging?
The best way to confirm is by reviewing their certifications, confirming where their materials are sourced from (and verifying that they are truly sustainable), and the way in which their products are identified or defined (no vague references to “green” products).
Can I customize sustainable packaging?
Yes. Most eco-friendly packaging suppliers provide custom printing, logos, and sizes.
What are the best eco-friendly packaging options for e-commerce?
Kraft mailers, corrugated boxes, compostable mailers, and biodegradable cushioning materials work well for shipping.
