Sustainable Packaging

Sustainable packaging is becoming increasingly important for UK businesses to source and use because of the growing expectations from customers and to support environmental responsibilities.

At SR Mailing, sustainable packaging is at the centre of everything we do here, which is providing businesses with eco-friendly packaging that doesn’t cost the Earth.

Sustainable packaging considers the entire lifecycle of the materials used, and this guide explains why you should be prioritising it, common challenges that can be avoided, and how your business can make your packaging more sustainable.

What Is Sustainable Packaging?

Sustainable packaging can be defined as packaging that reduces environmental impact throughout the product’s entire lifecycle. This type of eco-friendly packaging will be responsibly sourced and designed for reuse, recycling or composting, and minimise harmful waste streams, such as landfill waste.

Sustainable packaging keeps resources in circulation for as long as possible, and finds ways to lower emissions during virgin production, or be designed to be recycled at the end of use, as well as be initially manufactured from recycled materials.

Good sustainable packaging will balance product protection with the overall impact it has on the environment, with common types including corrugated cardboard, recycled LDPE and compostable materials. These materials are designed to protect different products during shipping and transit, and then able to be recycled and repurposed at the end of use.

Why Should Businesses Prioritise Sustainable Packaging?

Person holding items in an SR eco-friendly cardboard box

Reducing Environmental Impact

Businesses can see a real positive impact when choosing to use packaging that’s sustainable. The packaging sector is one of the largest generators of single-use plastic waste, resulting in high amounts of landfill and ocean waste, with microplastics then polluting ecosystems.

By adopting the use of sustainable packaging, businesses can support a circular economy through reuse and recycling, lowering their carbon footprint and helping to prevent harmful waste streams. Choosing recycled content also lowers reliance on virgin materials and manufacturing processes, both of which are highly polluting and pose a harmful impact on the environment.

Meeting Customer Expectations

Companies can improve their brand reputation by using sustainable packaging. Many consumers now expect sustainable and eco-friendly packaging when purchasing goods. Showcasing that your brand uses sustainable materials for packaging can enhance trust and help products stand out in your market, leading to more sales and profit.

Preparing for UK Regulations

Coming into force back in 2022, the UK government introduced the Plastic Packaging Tax, which charges businesses if they have manufactured or imported plastic packaging components which contain less than 30% recycled plastic. Combine this with EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility), which has placed financial burdens on UK organisations that handle packaging, it’s no wonder businesses are seeking more sustainable packaging solutions to keep costs down over time.

Making the Switch

The Biggest Challenges of Switching to Sustainable Packaging

01

Balancing Sustainability with Product Protection

One of the biggest challenges businesses face when switching to sustainable packaging is finding a solution that reduces environmental impact without compromising product protection. Packaging still needs to protect products throughout storage, handling and transit, particularly for fragile, heavy or temperature-sensitive goods. Choosing materials that provide the right level of durability while meeting sustainability goals is essential.

02

Managing Costs

Sustainable packaging can sometimes have a higher upfront cost than conventional alternatives, particularly when businesses are changing materials, suppliers or packaging processes. However, reducing unnecessary packaging, choosing efficient designs and considering the full lifecycle of packaging can help control costs. Businesses should consider long-term value rather than focusing solely on the initial price.

03

Finding the Right Materials

With so many packaging materials and environmental claims available, choosing the right option can be difficult. Recyclable, recycled, biodegradable and compostable packaging all have different meanings and disposal requirements. Businesses need to consider how the packaging will be used, how customers are likely to dispose of it and whether suitable recycling or composting infrastructure is widely available.

04

Keeping Up with Changing Regulations

Packaging regulations and sustainability requirements continue to develop, which can make it difficult for businesses to understand their responsibilities. Staying informed about changes to packaging waste rules, recycling requirements and producer responsibilities helps businesses make packaging choices that remain suitable as legislation evolves.

05

Working with the Right Packaging Supplier

A knowledgeable packaging supplier can help businesses understand the different sustainable options available and identify solutions that suit their products, operations and environmental goals. Working with a supplier that offers responsibly sourced materials and clear information about recyclability, recycled content and certifications can make the transition much easier.

Sustainable Solutions

Types of Sustainable Packaging

01

Cardboard Packaging

Perhaps one of the most well-known types of sustainable packaging is cardboard boxes. 100% corrugated cardboard is popular for packaging and shipping products because it features a multi-layered compost design, helping to improve shock absorption and durability. Perfect for a range of applications thanks to various sizes and designs, cardboard packaging is also recyclable, biodegradable and compostable, making it one of the most sustainable options for businesses to choose.

02

Paper Packaging

Businesses are now adopting paper packaging for various types of products, as it’s a plastic-free alternative that can easily be recycled. Kraft paper is a sustainable solution for filling voids, in addition to being widely used for mailing bags and envelopes. All these can be recycled, helping to keep the packaging in circulation, rather than being disposed of, which is the typical case for plastic alternatives.

03

Paper Tape & Water Activated Tape

Speaking of plastic-free alternatives, developments in paper packaging have also led to recyclable sealing solutions and sustainable alternatives to parcel tape. Kraft paper tape now uses a natural rubber adhesive that’s long-lasting and is biodegradable. Kraft paper tape is just one sustainable packaging option, with water activated gummed tape being the other. Both are recyclable, biodegradable and compostable, all while providing a professional appearance and ensuring a very strong adhesion.

04

Sustainable Labels

More businesses are now using sustainable thermal labels instead of traditional labels that use chemical coatings. Direct thermal labels are FSC-certified and remove the need for ink or toner, cartridge waste and traditional printing methods. While thermal labels can still contain chemical coatings, when responsibly sourced, they’re still the ideal alternative that helps support eco-friendly goals. Plus, they are available in a wide range of colours and sizes, and still effortlessly adhere to cardboard, plastic and film.

The Key Characteristics

What Makes Packaging Sustainable?

Sustainable packaging can be defined by several key characteristics.

01

First is what the packaging is made from. Sustainable packaging is typically made from recycled content, helping to reduce demand for virgin raw materials and giving existing materials a second life.

02

Sustainable packaging should also be easy to recycle after use. Choosing widely recyclable materials helps keep resources in circulation and reduces the amount of packaging sent to landfill or incineration.

03

Many sustainable packaging products use responsibly sourced renewable materials, such as paper and cardboard from sustainably managed forests. This helps protect natural resources while supporting responsible manufacturing practices. If you see packaging marked with an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, it means the materials have come from responsibly managed forests.

04

Where suitable, replacing conventional plastic packaging with paper-based or other alternative materials can reduce reliance on fossil fuel derived plastics. The most appropriate option will depend on the product, its intended use and disposal route.

05

Using only the amount of packaging needed helps reduce material consumption and unnecessary waste. Efficient packaging design can also lower transport volumes and associated emissions.

06

Sustainable packaging must still protect products throughout storage and transit. Preventing damage, spoilage and returns is an important part of reducing a product’s overall environmental impact.

07

Finally, the most sustainable packaging is the solution that best meets the needs of the product, supply chain and end user. Balancing performance, environmental impact and practicality helps businesses make more sustainable decisions.

Sustainable Packaging in the UK

Sustainable solutions concerning packaging have become a growing priority in the UK as businesses and consumers look to reduce packaging waste and improve recycling rates. Alongside environmental expectations, legislation is also encouraging organisations to take greater responsibility for the packaging they place on the market.

Measures such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Plastic Packaging Tax are influencing packaging choices, making it increasingly important to consider recycled content, recyclability and overall environmental impact. Choosing packaging that is compatible with UK recycling systems also helps maximise the likelihood that materials can be successfully collected, processed and reused.

Explore Our Sustainable Packaging Range

As a certified B-Corp, you can guarantee that our packaging range meets the high standards of social and environmental impact. Whether you need mailing bags and cardboard boxes or void fills, labels and tapes, our range is designed to be recyclable, compostable and is all responsibly sourced.

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Envelopes

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Mailing Bags

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Void Fill

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Cardboard Boxes

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Practical Steps

How to Make Your Packaging More Sustainable

If you are looking to make your business’s packaging more sustainable, what is the best way to go about it? Fortunately, it is easily done with the right strategy.

01

Assess your current packaging. Begin by assessing your current packaging, including the material types, sizes and how recyclable or compostable it currently is.

02

Identify opportunities to make changes. Look for opportunities to remove unnecessary packaging or switch to recyclable or recycled alternatives without compromising product protection.

03

Consider paper-based alternatives. Where appropriate, paper-based packaging can offer a more sustainable solution for many applications.

04

Work with the right supplier. Working with a packaging supplier that prioritises sustainability can also help you identify suitable products and keep up with changing regulations.

05

Keep reviewing your packaging. Finally, continue reviewing your packaging performance over time, ensuring it continues to meet your operational needs, sustainability goals and customer expectations.

Let Us Help You Build A Sustainable Packaging Plan

If you need any support on choosing the ideal sustainable packaging, questions on ordering answered, or any further assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at SR Mailing today, and we’ll help you develop the perfect sustainable packaging plan.

FAQs

What is the most sustainable type of packaging?

There is no single most sustainable packaging type. The best option depends on the product, how it is transported, the materials used and how it will be disposed of. Packaging that is fit for purpose, contains recycled content and is easily recyclable is often the most sustainable choice.

Is recyclable packaging always sustainable?

While recyclable packaging supports a circular economy, sustainability also depends on factors such as recycled content, responsible sourcing, manufacturing processes and whether the packaging is actually recycled after use.

What is the difference between recyclable and recycled packaging?

Recyclable packaging can be processed into new materials after use, while recycled packaging is made from materials that have already been recovered and reprocessed. Learn more in our blog recyclable vs recycled.

How can businesses reduce the environmental impact of their packaging?

Businesses can reduce their environmental impact by using only the packaging they need, choosing recyclable or recycled materials, considering paper-based alternatives where appropriate and working with suppliers that offer more sustainable packaging solutions.

Sustainable Packaging

What Is Sustainable Packaging?