The Earth is suffering under the excessive weight of human resource consumption, and businesses everywhere have a responsibility to reduce their energy and resource consumption to lead thought around climate change and sustainable purchasing habits. We at Kiki Bag hold this cause close to our hears, and want to share the A to Z of eco-friendly packaging with you to help you commit to more environmentally conscious business processes.
Back in the day, manufacturers worldwide discovered the cheap and convenient packaging solution that is plastic, and we all know how successful that discovery has been as far as effective and low-cost packaging is concerned. Unfortunately, its no secret how plastic has come to dominate landfills, oceans and streets globally and have a disastrous impact on wildlife and biodiversity.
The harrowing fact that plastic objects outnumber sea life by six to one is enough to drain the colour from our faces. Ten million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and a large portion of that plastic can be attributed to packaging and plastic bags. Today, we ask businesses everywhere to make their stand against single-use plastic and move towards plastic-free alternatives with enthusiasm. We have put together some eco-friendly packaging ideas below to help inspire your commitment to a great cause…
There are a number of simple steps you can take, as well as alternatives you can employ, to make a difference to the sustainability of your business. Below, we have put together a list of eco-friendly packaging ideas to stimulate your socially conscious mindset:
Does your product really need to be wrapped up individually, then put on a polystyrene tray and wrapped in another two to three layers of plastic? Then carrier home in a plastic bag? No. Reduce the layers of your packaging as much as possible, thus reducing the volume of plastic you use, and devise unique ways to wrap your product safely in alternative materials.
Packaging made from recyclable and biodegradable materials is at the top of our priorities. Single-use plastics are particularly painful to the environment, and can be easily eliminated by employing eco-friendly alternatives, such as paper, cardboard and specialised biodegradable plastic.
Quick fix: try swapping out your store’s plastic bags for paper shopping bags that carry your brand message, and remain kind to the environment.
Firstly, ensure that your packaging is sized appropriately for your products. Large packaging for small items is wasteful and not effective. Consider combining recyclable packaging with minimalist design, refraining from using dyes, laminations and adornments that are harmful to the environment. In a world of plastic packaged products painted in gaudy colours, a simple printed brown paper box stands out.
Packaging that can be reused is highly valuable, in many more ways than one. For example, if your customer is given a reusable branded paper shopping bag, they will be walking around with a mobile version of your marketing material. Further, they can reuse the bag due to its structural integrity, and not feel guilty about harmful plastic products. Socially responsible packaging is also a great way to show prospective customers that you care about the planet they inhabit.
Kiki Bag produce a selection of branded paper shopping bags that are made from renewable resources, in such a way that they are biodegradable and recyclable. You can contact us to discuss the packaging needs of your business, and how we can exceed your expectations.