As consumers become more conscious about the environment and its effects on the society, there is a heightened call for eco-friendly packaging. The increasing concern over the disposal of plastics means that customers as well as producers are looking into green solutions for packaging. It is also important to identify this shift as not just a passing trend but a significant step towards addressing some of the environmental problems facing the world today.
Thus, going green with packaging is not only a moral imperative for small businesses but also a business advantage. Implementing sustainable packaging has benefits that can help in building brand image, appeal to the green consumers, and set your business apart from the industry. Not only does it bring your business in line with broader environmental objectives, but it also builds customer loyalty by showcasing a concern for the environment.
In this guide, we will be outlining some of the things that you need to know if you are considering compostable mailers. You will understand better now the differences between traditional and compostable packaging, why businesses should be making the switch, and how to get started. Whether you are interested in purchasing custom mailers for small businesses or interested in other eco friendly packaging options, this article should contain all of the information you require to properly transition your business towards sustainability.
Understanding Compostable Packaging
Its important to learn about compostable packaging if you’re interested in making your small business environmentally friendly in the modern world. Eco-friendly packaging entails packages that have an ability to decompose in a composting landfill to discharge no toxicity to the soil. The examples of this type of packaging may range from the custom mailers for small businesses or custom mailer bags that can be made for minimizing the unfavorable effects on the environment.
This post will provide solutions to seek new ways of using eco-friendly packaging for small businesses if you own a small business. The first step towards learning about compostable products is to look for those that have passed through a compostable certification process. These are short-term items whose purpose is to disintegrate at a given time depending on environmental factors best found in a composting plant.
Deciding which kind of compostable packaging –bag, box, or wrapper material – may mean that it depends on your product. Sustainable packaging doesn’t necessarily equal picking just any sustainable packaging for small businesses – it’s about getting the right one to meet your product needs while staying environmentally conscious.
For example, a durable compostable custom mailer bag which is suitable to ship a product, protecting the items and being environmentally friendly. As previously discussed, the end aim is trying to throw away as little as possible and create a healthier earth regarding the packaging.
Benefits of Compostable Packaging for Small Businesses
It is a common finding that the implementation of compostable packaging supplements your small business brand identity in the eyes of environmentally friendly consumers. That means if you decide to use the materials that you know will decompose on their own naturally, then it is not just business that you are doing but also creating awareness for sustainable use of materials. It can help you become unique in a competitive world that consumers are now different in how they select the companies they want to buy from.
It is also worth mentioning that compostable packaging helps you minimize your CO2 emissions. Plastic packaging has been in existence for many years and may take about 300 years to decompose with most of it releasing dangerous chemicals in the process. Compostable items, on the other hand, break down in a relatively shorter span and they do not emit hazardous gases which helps in reducing landfill problem drastically.
This is important given the fact that the customers are now more informed and sensitive to the environmental concerns in our planet.
Moreover, it could be cost effective to invest in compostable packaging so that the cost for waste disposal could be covered in the future. Since you can compost your own packaging waste, or even take part in community composting, the options of lower garbage disposal fees are yours.
The organisations and companies save money in the long run when adopting compostable packaging as a form of packaging since it has both the ethical value and the economic value attached to it.
How to Choose the Right Compostable Packaging
Thus, picking the perfect compostable packaging for your small business begins with passing through the following steps:
Here you will have to think about the necessity of durability, the products’ ability to withstand moisture, and their shelf life. For instance, if you are transporting fresh vegetables you need a packaging material which has some sort of ventilation, while electronic parts may need anti-static packaging.
Second, it is necessary to discuss how your brand sustains or supports sustainable business practices. It is also necessary to decide on materials that must not only biodegrade but also, when they are biodegrading, they should not leave dangerous substances.
Some of the tested biopolymers that fit under this category include PLA, which is made from corn starch and is said to be biodegradable under industrial composting process. However, it is necessary to note to that the items that go to the compost pile are not all the same. Some need certain conditions to be met to dissolve and these conditions may not be tenable by your customers.
Also, there exists the issue of production processes and disposal methods to be considered. Choose suppliers who operate using renewable energy and provide proof that their materials are compostable, such as certification under Australian Standard AS 4736 for industrial compostability or AS 5810 for home compostability. These certifications ensure that the products meet the stringent compostable standards set for Australia.
This ensures that you're genuinely contributing to a reduction in waste, aligning with eco-conscious consumer values and strengthening your brand's green credentials.
Steps to Implement Compostable Packaging
The transition to compostable packaging for your business also has the following core steps that are very crucial to take before the process is complete. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you get started:
Evaluate Your Current Packaging: Start by reviewing the current packaging type used and see where the compostable packaging type can be applied in replacement to the regular one. In this step, you find out which aspects of your packaging process could be more sustainable.
Source Reliable Suppliers: Two, It is recommended that you should research and identify suppliers that deal with compostable packaging. Examine that the packaging materials have a license from standard procedural bodies including BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) Approval granted in USA or the corresponding one in other parts of the globe. This ensures that the materials which are used are compliant to be qualified to be composted.
Consider Cost Implications: It also means acknowledging the fact that compostable packaging tend to be more expensive than the traditional materials. Consider the cost in relation to the saved resources and gaining long term and valuable experience in implementing economical solutions with a positive impact on the environment.
Educate Your Team: When you have selected your suppliers, it will also be important that your team is familiar with the new packaging material. Assist customers and every worker in the company, from the shelf clerks in the warehouses to the product designers, packaging departments, and marketing staff in understanding the value of compostable packaging and how they should use them.
Monitor and Adjust: Yet again, adopting compostable packaging is not actually a one shot but it is a continuous process that has to be performed. It is wise to check the new performance of your packaging on regular basis, get feedback from your team and modify it for the best results in terms of performance as well as sustainability.
Eco Friendly Packaging Material For Small Businesses
The type of packaging material that can be used in the packaging of products of the small business ought to be ones that are environmental friendly but at the same time affordable, durable and able to attract the target consumers. Here are some top options:
Corrugated Cardboard: Our bags are made from recycled material and are 100% Recyclable. It is strong to withstand a shipping environement and it is light weight enabling a low transport impact.
Biodegradable Packing Peanuts: It is biodegradable which means it is made from natural substance such as wheat and corn starch. These are environmental friendly since they dissolve in water and contain no hazardous deposits on the general environment unlike Styrofoam peanuts.
Plant-Based Plastics: Obtained from renewable sources such as corn, sugarcane or algae etc. These bioplastics are usually biodegradable and also impart moisture barrier property without the use of conventional plastics.
Minimal Packaging: Instead of using plastics you should spen the recycled material like paper or bamboo instead. This reduces wastage and is advisable for brands that want to associate with environmental conservation hence appeasing the environmental conservation conscious consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Compostable Packaging Be Printed With My Business Logo?
Yes, you can print your business logo on compostable packaging. Just ensure the inks are eco-friendly too, to maintain sustainability. It's a great way to brand your products while being environmentally conscious.
Are There Any Tax Benefits to Using Compostable Packaging
Yes, you might find tax benefits when using compostable packaging, as many governments incentivize sustainable practices. Check local regulations to see if you're eligible for deductions or credits that reduce your tax liability.
How Do Customers Dispose of Compostable Packaging Correctly?
To correctly dispose of compostable packaging, you'll need to place it in a compost bin rather than recycling or trash. Ensure your local facility accepts such materials, as composting options vary widely.
Conclusion
Now that you're equipped with the basics, it's time to make the switch to compostable packaging. Embrace this eco-friendly choice to not only attract green-minded customers but also minimize your environmental footprint. Start small, assess the impact, and gradually expand your use of sustainable materials. Remember, every small change contributes to a healthier planet. Dive in, make a difference, and watch your business grow sustainably. For a wide range of eco-friendly packaging solutions, be sure to check out NuPack Packaging and make a greener choice for your business.
