Sustainability is meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Using environmentally friendly products to obtain sustainability is a growing trend for most consumers and businesses. The environment has been an increasing priority to not only the United States but consumers across the Globe! Many have joined the efforts to create a circular economy. A circular economy is based on the principles of eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.
Creating a circular economy requires that the packaging industry take an active role in helping brands find the right sustainable solutions with the proper end goals that does not take away from their current packaging and brand design.
Improvements in the printing process and advancements in printing techniques have assisted with improving sustainability and environmental impact in the print world. Efforts to improve sustainability include reducing pollution and waste, improving health and safety, operating efficiently, and saving money.
Sustainability efforts to produce the same aesthetic packaging with environmentally friendly materials is the goal for many brands across the world. There are some key factors to consider when deciding how to make your packaging more ecofriendly including materials, inks, adhesives, and products end-of-life.
Materials
Eco-friendly materials are frequently renewable, non-toxic, and non-harmful to the environment. These materials can include:
- Paper/Paperboard
- Recycled Plastic
- Recycled Corrugated Cardboard
- Bioplastics
- Compostable
- Biodegradable
Many plastics can be recycled at a drop-off recycling location or be picked up right from your house. But just because a products packaging is recyclable does not mean that the packaging is completely sustainable. The inks and adhesives used on the packaging are equally important as the base material.
It is important to consider not only the base material or substrate of your packaging but the inks and adhesives that are also used to design your packaging. Read more about sustainable inks, adhesives and more ways to go green by reading our Sustainability Product Brochure. Click on the link to read more!
