Sustainable packaging refers to packaging that, over time, reduces its impact on the environment. Sustainable packaging is not only about the end product, but also about the ingredients, manufacturing process and reusability. The ingredients must be from recycled raw materials and the manufacturing process must be shortened to minimize the carbon footprint. Thus, sustainable packaging should create a circular economy while extending the usability and life cycle of packaging.
Our planet is facing challenges such as climate change and global warming, and some countries are already beginning to experience difficulties. The rapidly growing economy of the UAE has led to serious environmental problems that arise from the demand for water and energy, as well as urban development. One way to reduce environmental damage is to use sustainable packaging.
Why should we switch to sustainable packaging
Many companies are making environmental changes by using sustainable packaging. But do you know why they do it? Sustainable packaging has a positive impact on the environment.
One of the most important things sustainable packaging does is reduce your carbon footprint. Did you know that the carbon footprint refers to the amount of greenhouse gases generated by human activities? Packaging products go through various processes, such as extraction, production, transportation and use.
Each phase produces a certain percentage of carbon monoxide into the environment. Sustainable packaging is sustainable and uses a variety of manufacturing methods to reduce carbon emissions.
Sustainable Packaging Trends 2020
2020 will bring different trends in sustainable packaging as many companies try to reach more customers while saving the environment. Here are the trends that will dominate sustainable packaging in 2020,
- Processing
Sustainability has been a focus of packaging for several years and things will be different in 2020. Companies will put more emphasis on using 100% recyclable materials for packaging. This is why some companies encourage their customers to recycle bottles.
- Minimalism
sustainable packaging trends will include minimalism because it is biodegradable and sustainable. Minimalism means cutting back on packaging materials and designs. The minimalist design allows consumers to focus on packaging prints that encourage product recycling and reuse.
- Upcycled Packaging Materials
Using upcycled reduces waste on our planet. Products made from post-consumer waste are attracting more consumers and making these bags cheaper and more environmentally friendly. Some companies will use 100% recyclable materials to encourage consumers to make sustainable choices.
- Smart packaging
Technology makes things light, which makes CRM-branded packaging and sets up packaging companies to make it easier for them to operate. Smart packaging reduces waste, especially in the food industry. Indicators can tell you when food is fresh or when it is no longer fit for consumption.
- Bioplastic
Many companies are also switching from plastics to bioplastics, which means they don’t have to rely on fossil fuels, which require more energy to mine and process. Fossil resources are not renewable. Bioplastics are more beneficial and environmentally friendly because they are made from annual crops such as sugar beets, sugar cane, cassava and corn. Bioplastics can be carbon neutral or reduce greenhouse gas emissions Bioplastics increase resource efficiency.
- Returnable packaging
The return packaging trend has many benefits. Returnable packaging can be reused without compromising performance. Recyclability in packaging is a critical factor when considering the environment. Recyclability lowers disposal costs for consumers and minimizes waste This is beneficial not only for customers, but also for the planet. Most of the products used in returnable packaging are recyclable, making this trend green and sustainable.
- From plastics to paper
Did you know that paper packaging is a sustainable packaging trend? Paper is a product of trees, making it renewable. The use of paper encourages companies to plant more trees and maintain forests. In addition, paper is endlessly recyclable, which means it does not degrade no matter how many times it is recycled. However, it can rot when left in a landfill. Paper packaging is more environmentally friendly than plastic and versatile.
- Mono materials
As consumers seek greener and cleaner products, companies are focusing on monomaterials. These bags are made from one material, which makes it easier to reuse, which reduces the need for new materials. Since monomaterials are made using a single polymer, they can be easily collected and recycled.
- Edible packaging
Edible packaging is a trend in the food packaging industry. Edible packages are intended for human consumption and are biodegradable like the food they used to package. Different companies have different edible packaging. The first edible packaging was a sugar or waffle ice cream cone. Other examples are starch based cake wrappers and edible cups.
Many companies use sustainable packaging because it benefits not only the environment but also consumers and the company. Different companies use different strategies to make their packaging more sustainable.
