Making the switch to sustainable packaging: Tips for small businesses and startups

Going green with your packaging has shifted from being a trend into a necessity. In today’s increasingly eco-conscious world, sustainable practices have become a top priority for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses and startups, in particular, have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact by adopting sustainable packaging strategies. As consumers gravitate towards environmentally friendly products, integrating sustainable packaging not only aligns with their values but also offers a competitive edge. Wondering how your business can make the eco-friendly shift? Read on.

What is sustainable packaging?

Sustainable packaging refers to the use of materials and design techniques that minimize environmental impact and promote long-term ecological balance throughout the entire life cycle of a product. It involves incorporating principles of sustainability into the packaging materials, manufacturing processes, distribution, use, and disposal.

The need for sustainable packaging comes from the growing concern over environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. Conventional packaging methods often contribute to these problems through the excessive use of non-renewable resources, generation of waste, and emissions of greenhouse gases. The whole movement aims to address these issues by reducing the environmental footprint associated with the industry.

Why should you go sustainable? Doing so offers a slew of advantages:

• Environmental benefits – Starting off with the most obvious, sustainable packaging helps conserve natural resources and reduces pollution through the reduction and management of non-renewable resources and waste generation.
• Cost savings – While switching to sustainable packaging may require an upfront investment, it pays dividends in the long run. For example, using lighter and more efficient materials can reduce transportation costs, and adopting recycling programs can lower waste disposal expenses.
• Branding – Consumers are increasingly concerned about sustainability and are more likely to favor brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility. By adopting sustainable packaging practices, businesses can improve their brand image, attract environmentally conscious customers, and gain a competitive edge in the market. In fact, a study done by McKinsey revealed that 68% of respondents in the USA mentioned they are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.
• Compliance – Sustainability isn’t just a fad. There is a conscious shift both on a consumer and regulatory level. Many countries and industries have already started implementing regulations and standards related to packaging waste, recycling, and environmental impact.

Making the shift to sustainability

• Assess where you are. An honest self-assessment is in order before any big change. Put into paper (or the screen) where your packaging is as far as sustainability is concerned and build from there. By assessing your brand’s processes, you’ll be able to see areas for improvement and where immediate action is needed. Putting everything on paper makes it easier to form a concrete plan, too.
• Reduce packaging size and weight. Ensuring that all of your packaging fits well is a major factor in the path to sustainability. Ill-fitting packaging is more expensive, uses up more raw materials, increases the chances of product damage, and costs more to ship. Custom packaging that fits perfectly is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but also cheaper in the long run.
• Choose eco-friendly materials. One of the biggest problems with product packaging is the amount of waste it produces. A good way to reduce your environmental footprint is by incorporating eco-friendly materials such as corrugated cardboard in your packaging. A popular packaging trend now is cardboard embedded with seeds. Once you’re done with it, you can plant it and watch it grow.
• Implement reusable packaging. Single-use packaging is literally and figuratively a waste. Switching to reusable packaging not only helps minimize your carbon footprint, it also helps you with branding. The longer your packaging materials get used and reused, the more mileage you get out of it.
• Optimize packaging design. Optimizing packaging design involves reducing the amount of material used, choosing eco-friendly materials, and ensuring efficient use of space. This can be achieved by employing techniques such as right-sizing packaging, using lighter and thinner materials, and eliminating unnecessary components. By optimizing packaging design, businesses can minimize waste, reduce transportation costs, and decrease the overall environmental impact of their packaging.
• Encourage recycling and composting. Businesses can actively promote recycling and composting of their packaging materials by providing clear instructions and labeling on how to properly dispose of them. This can include using easily recognizable recycling symbols, partnering with recycling facilities, and educating consumers about the recyclability or compostability of the packaging. By encouraging recycling and composting, companies contribute to the circular economy and reduce the amount of packaging waste that ends up in landfills.
• Educate. Education plays a vital role in creating awareness and promoting sustainable packaging practices. Businesses can educate their employees, customers, and stakeholders about the importance of sustainable packaging, the benefits it brings, and how to make informed choices. This can be done through training programs, informational campaigns, and providing resources that highlight the environmental impact of packaging and sustainable alternatives. By fostering a culture of knowledge and understanding, businesses can empower individuals to make sustainable choices and contribute to a greener future.
• Set targets and track progress. To effectively transition to sustainable packaging, it is essential to set measurable targets and track progress. This involves establishing specific goals such as reducing packaging waste or increasing the use of recycled materials, and regularly monitoring and reporting on the progress made. By setting targets, businesses create a sense of accountability and drive continuous improvement. Tracking progress helps identify areas for further improvement, celebrate successes, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability to stakeholders and consumers.

Making sustainability sustainable

Choosing to switch to sustainable packaging practices is not a one-person job. You need to get everyone involved. Collaboration is crucial both for suppliers and consumers. Businesses can work closely with their suppliers to identify sustainable materials, explore innovative packaging solutions, and establish responsible sourcing practices. By engaging in dialogue and fostering partnerships with suppliers, companies can collectively drive sustainable changes throughout the supply chain, ensuring a more holistic and effective approach to sustainable packaging.

Another important factor in making the switch to sustainability a success is emphasizing the long-term benefits and communicating it to all stakeholders. By highlighting the positive impacts that sustainable packaging brings over the long term, businesses can make a compelling case for change.

Going the sustainable route for your business is a process. It’s a feat that can’t be accomplished overnight. It’s important to sow the seeds and start small and gradually build towards the goal. By prioritizing sustainable practices, businesses can reduce their environmental impact, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and position themselves as responsible leaders in their industries. Embracing eco-friendly packaging materials, minimizing waste, collaborating with suppliers, and effectively communicating sustainability efforts are key steps towards creating a greener and more socially responsible business.