Is eco friendly packaging really more affordable and practical?

In this day and age where more people and companies are opting for sustainable packaging materials, there are certainly many options to choose from. Sustainable packaging basically refers to any ecological materials used for packaging that can be reused or recycled in such a way that doesn’t hurt the environment. This can include recycled paper, wood fibreboard, glass, biodegradable plastics, sugarcane-based plastics, and more. But does opting for eco friendly packaging alternatives, which can have a slightly higher initial cost than traditional choices, really benefit your business in the long run? 

Let’s see what some of the tried-and-tested advantages are:

1. Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings: Yes, opting for sustainable packaging materials might cost you at first, but your business will definitely feel the benefits in the long run. Consider how these materials often result in reduced waste disposal fees. And remember that they can ease potential fines associated with non-compliance with environmental regulations. Over time, your business will significantly offset the initial expenses. 

2. Increased Clientele and Business: Today’s “green age” definitely sees many consumers actively seeking out eco conscious companies that demonstrate social- and environmental responsibility. Opt for more eco friendly packaging and you are sure to attract more environmentally conscious consumers and, in turn, increased sales and customer loyalty. 

3. Cost-Efficient Innovations: As the eco friendly packaging industry is very innovative, demand continuously increases. This leads to manufacturers developing new techniques and materials that are not only environmentally friendly, but quite cost-efficient. Thus, your business can have its pick from a wide variety of affordable eco friendly packaging options (from biodegradable plastics to compostable packaging materials) to cater to various packaging needs.  

4. Tax Credits and Government Support: Green companies that use sustainable packaging can often receive credits or subsidies from governments, organisations, and local authorities whose goals align with eco friendly practices. By taking advantage of these programs (such as tax breaks, grants, etc.), the overall costs of your business can be further reduced.  

5. Boosted Brand Reputation: As “eco-consciousness” is the new trend, it’s easy for many brands that prioritise sustainable alternatives to gain positive media coverage. And with media outlets keen on publishing stories about eco friendly companies, your business’ reputation can certainly get some free publicity to help attract new customers, leading to a substantial return on investment without any extra expenses. 

6. A Competitive Edge: With more consumers zooming in on sustainability, eco friendly brands gain a competitive advantage. This is a great way to stand out among competitors and tap into a growing market segment. It can also help your company to enjoy growing sales and market share. 

7. Versatility: While helping to protect the environment, sustainable packaging is also quite versatile and can be utilised in every major industry that makes use of regular packaging. It doesn’t matter if your company is in cosmetics, food, electronics or pharmaceuticals, as you are sure to find the ideal sustainable packaging product to meet your green needs.  

Ultimately, eco friendly packaging should not be seen as a cost-prohibitive factor, but rather as a strategic investment that offers a rich variety of financial-, environmental-, and reputational benefits. Embrace the current trend of sustainable packaging and you not only create a positive impact on our planet, but also help to give your brand a boost.  

Crossing over to eco friendly packaging materials is not only an ethical choice, but also a practical and economically viable one for any business, regardless of size. Fortunately, MBA Green has helped several businesses develop sustainable solutions for greener packaging that are environmentally friendly and cost-effective. So, take the first step towards a greener future and see how MBA Green can set your brand on a sustainable path forward.