Understanding the Benefits of Eco-Friendly Containers

Before you move toward eco-friendly containers, understand their benefits so you feel right about the process as a whole. Once you recognize how beneficial they are, you will have the confidence to move forward in the right direction for your company. Here are just a few of the benefits:

  • Environmental-Friendliness

Forbes states that eco-friendly and compostable packaging reduces carbon output into the world. With climate change, that kind of shift is always a good one to make. These containers reduce waste in landfills, which lessens your company’s carbon footprint.

  • Cost Savings

Lighter, efficient packages allow your business to lower storage and transportation costs, which is always a good thing for your bottom line.

  • Competition Benefits

When you choose eco-friendly packaging options over the standard choices, your company stands out as one that cares. You’ll attract customers focused on those issues as well. That serves your company well, giving you an edge over your competition.

  • Repeat Customers

Customers who appreciate your commitment to sustainability will grow to trust you and build a relationship with you. They will return because of that appreciation and trust.

  • Possible Tax Credits

Some government systems offer positive reinforcement to businesses that use sustainability. Those might include tax credits and other positive incentives that can help your business get ahead.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Eco-Friendly Containers

Before moving toward recyclable containers, consider these items to make sure they’re a good fit:

  • Materials/Sourcing

Go through the material options such as recycled paper, polylactic acid, seaweed, bamboo, and other renewable or eco-friendly resources, and see what might work for your product. Consider the material as well as where you are going to source it in the overall decision.

  • Certifications

Having certified products shows your customers your due diligence. When they see those certifications, they know you did your that you did your research and are using the right eco-friendly containers. Certifications come from places like the Trade Foundation or the Rainforest Alliance. They help you to verify where you got the packaging materials and that those items meet the sustainability needs you want to put into place.

  • Functionality

Eco-friendly containers aren’t going to help your business if they don’t meet your functionality needs. Consider how your product might fit, whether they can be reused another time, if they are able to be recycled, and other functional details.

  • Design

Can the material be used in a variety of ways or just one? You need the overall design to fit the product you wish to place inside the container.

  • Cost

The bottom line is always important, and the cost-effectiveness of the container is a huge consideration. Some eco-friendly materials cost more, but you may also save long-term because of lower waste, shipping costs, and storage needs.

  • Brand Appeal

Reputation is crucial for any business, and sustainability can improve your brand's allure. You want to employ environmentally friendly materials that will draw in eco-conscious consumers and enhance your brand.

Steps to Implement Eco-Friendly Containers in Your Business

Once you decide on sustainable packaging, there are many steps to take.

Step 1: Assess The Company’s Needs

What does your business need in packaging? You don’t want sustainable packaging of certain kinds if they don’t fit your needs.

Step 2: Research Packaging

Research the different materials and see what fits all of your angles. Also, where will you source the packaging?

Step 3: Create a Design

You will want the packaging to have a design that fits your brand.

Step 4: Share the Details with Customers

Once you have a package, be proud and share the details with your customers so they know you are working to lead the way in sustainability.

Step 5: Test and Improve

Test the packaging before you roll it out on a large scale and make improvements as you go.

Businesses Leading with Eco-Friendly Packaging

The New York Times states that many companies are turning to biodegradable packaging, like seaweed, for products ranging from luxury watches to beauty items and beyond. These companies, among others, are leading the way.

Samsung

This company allows you to repurpose the packaging. According to the product's instructions, you can reorganize the box after you purchase it to become a TV console, bookcase, cat housing, or other similar items.

Zara

Zara uses recyclable packaging, and they allow customers to bring used items back to the store for repurposing or recycling. They aim to be 100% landfill-free this year.

Credits: Unsplash; Author: @micheile;

In conclusion

Recyclable containers are the eco-friendly option, and as companies strive toward sustainability, choosing new containers is a smart move to make. They help reduce environmental impact and support long-term resource conservation. Switching to recyclable solutions also aligns with evolving industry standards and regulations.