Did you know that 170 countries have pledged to reduce the use of plastics by 2030? Slowly, the world is turning toward a plastic-free future. But do you know what materials will replace it?
When it comes to packaging, plastic has reigned supreme, but for no longer. Read on as we discuss the best biodegradable packaging materials.
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Paper and Cardboard
Paper and cardboard remain the most used biodegradable packaging material options. With their many outstanding benefits, why wouldn’t they be?
The material can come from sustainable paper suppliers. This means for every tree cut down, another gets planted. This makes it a renewable material.
In addition, it is biodegradable and recyclable. You can find them everywhere from cardboard for shipping to paper food containers. It is also extremely easy for manufacturers and retailers to source and remains one of the cheapest packaging materials.
Biodegradable Air Pillows
Anyone who has ordered from Amazon has probably encountered air pillows. They are small, plastic bags filled with air and placed in a box. The air-filled cushions protect the item against impact and damage.
While the plastic itself is not always environmentally friendly, it uses much less than styrofoam packaging pellets. In addition, new technology and manufacturing methods have meant these packaging materials are now being made from biodegradable materials.
Corrugated Bubble Wrap
Everyone loves bubble wrap for the calming effect popping the bubbles has. However, it is not the most environmentally friendly packaging method.
Corrugated bubble wrap is one easy replacement. Made from up-cycled cardboard, it is a sheet of card with cuts made in it. This gives it a folded, concertina shape.
This shape can help protect the contents from impact, as bubble wrap would. It is recyclable and can be composted once finished.
Fabrics
Many countries have started to make big moves towards the banning of single-use plastics. One facet of this is supermarkets phasing out plastic bags. Instead, a number of organic fabrics have sprung up to replace them.
The types of organic fabrics that can be used for making bags are endless. Tapioca, hemp, recycled cotton, and palm leaves are a few. The bags are reusable or will degrade and return to the soil if thrown away.
Biodegradable Packaging Peanuts
Styrofoam is the light material you find in takeaway packages and in small peanuts, filling up your packaging. It is not biodegradable and can not be recycled. Many countries and states are making moves to ban it completely.
In response to this, a biodegradable version has been created. They serve exactly the same function, but degrade naturally and are even cheaper than their counterparts.
Changing to Biodegradable Packaging Materials
If you own a business and want to make the switch, it is easier than ever to use biodegradable packaging materials. In some instances, it may even be able to cut your costs. Speak to a manufacturer and see what they can offer.
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