The Life Cycle of Eco-Friendly Packaging: From Production to Disposal

Did you know that out of all the plastics produced worldwide, only 36% are used for packaging? And that 85% of that same packaging will end up as litter, severely contributing to our plastic pollution? 

No wonder the need for a circular economy (which focuses on materials being reused over and over in a constant loop instead of just being dumped) has grown bigger, as more businesses strive to reduce their environmental impact. And that’s precisely the end goal of eco-friendly packaging.

So, what are the different stages that make up a circular economy (from start to finish) that help to reduce a company’s carbon footprint? 

  1. Selecting Materials

Sustainable packaging utilises recyclable-, renewable-, biodegradable-, and compostable materials that, compared to traditional packaging, have a much smaller ecological footprint. Some well-known options include cardboard, kraft paper, plant-based plastics, and recycled paper. 

  1. Processing

But these raw materials first need to be processed before they can be used as eco-friendly packaging. An example is potato peel waste, from which starch is extracted before being plasticised into perfectly compostable packaging.

  1. Design & Manufacturing

This stage focuses on producing packaging that is functional, easy to use, and environmentally friendly. Factors like size and weight are considered to use as little material and energy during production as possible.

Although not always the case, eco-friendly packaging usually has a minimalist look, as fewer materials are used to reduce redundant components.

  1. Transport & Delivery 

Using lightweight materials and reworking packaging dimensions can decrease energy consumption and fuel emissions during transport. Businesses also optimise their supply chain working towards the goal of acquiring electric vehicles for a more sustainable distribution system.

  1. Product Protection & Consumer Use 

Whereas packaging’s first purpose is to keep products safe during transit and storage, sustainable packaging fulfils the same role while also decreasing waste and environmental impact. For instance, packaging designers can also use recycled content to make cushioning materials for the packaged products. And don’t forget about adding clear instructions on the packaging so the end user knows exactly how to use it and how to dispose of it afterwards (i.e. recycling or composting).  

  1. End-of-life Use & Recycling 

Here we reach the end of the closed-loop system where the packaging waste is recovered, recycled, and reused to repeat the process. But to achieve this, proper waste management systems and recycling infrastructures are important for eco-friendly packaging to continue its circular loop.

 

MBA Green: Your eco-friendly packaging partner 

At MBA Green, our day-to-day mission is to reduce pollution while making our world a more sustainable environment for all. We abide by EU regulations and we have over a decade of experience in the field of eco-friendly packaging. 

Multiple companies from various industries make use of our sustainable packaging, including food and beverage, retail, pharmaceuticals, and more.  

Isn’t it high time you did, too?

Contact us today and find out how our approach to sustainability can add an environmentally friendly twist to your brand packaging.

Volver a News