9 Ways To Reduce Packaging Waste

In today's world, where environmental sustainability is more critical than ever, finding ways to reduce packaging waste has become a top priority for businesses and consumers alike. As a sustainable packaging supplier at Priory Direct, we understand the importance of making eco-conscious choices when it comes to packaging. We're going to explore nine effective ways to reduce packaging waste and minimise your environmental impact.

Right Size Your Packaging

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce packaging waste is to use the right-sized packaging for your products. Avoid oversized boxes or excessive padding and void fill that only adds unnecessary material and weight to your shipments.

For instance, if you're shipping a small item like a smartphone case, there's no need for a large box with excessive padding. Instead, opt for a snug-fitting package or mailer that protects the item without wasting materials. Products like book wraps are a great invention for this as they are made from corrugated cardboard and wrap snugly around your product to minimise movement and damage in transit. 

Many companies use custom packaging solutions that are tailor-made for their products to minimize waste further. By selecting appropriately sized packaging, you not only reduce waste but also lower shipping costs.

Reusable & Recyclable Packaging

Opt for packaging materials that are reusable and recyclable. Reusable packaging options are a great way to reduce waste. And when it comes to recyclable materials, choose packaging made from materials like corrugated cardboard or paperboard, which are widely accepted in recycling programs. 

Whilst many types of plastic packaging are advertised as recyclable, the actual recyclability statistics are a surprising result. For instance, poly mailers - a much loved and used packaging staple for thousands of businesses for sending a great variety of products like clothes - aren't as recyclable as you think. In fact, municipal soft plastic recycling capactiy is a shockingly small percentage at less than 5% and over 95% of soft plastics generated by e-commerce businesses for consumers will end up in land fill or the open environment.

So whilst your plastic packaging like poly mailers might appear to be recyclable, the likelihood is it won't get recycled due to a lack of capacity. So, choosing products like paper mailing bags over LDPE (soft plastics) poly mailers can help divert more waste from landfills and reduce the burden on limited landfill space.

Paper is one of the most widely recycled materials in the UK and the infrastructure in place to cope with capacity is well-established, meaning we have excellent recycling rates in comparison to LDPE. Curbside collection for paper is widespread and commonplace practice throughout the UK and plays an integral part of the waste management infrastructure. 

Source Sustainable Raw Materials

Consider sourcing packaging materials from suppliers that prioritise sustainable practices and use eco-friendly materials. Sustainable forestry, recycled content, and responsibly sourced materials are excellent options to explore. 

For example, opt for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper products, which ensure responsible forestry practices. You can also explore recycled content options, like paper packaging made from post-consumer recycled materials.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

Explore innovative eco-friendly packaging options such as biodegradable materials, compostable packaging, or packaging made from renewable resources like bamboo or sugarcane. These choices have a significantly reduced environmental impact compared to traditional plastics. A prime example are grass paper mailing bags, which break down naturally and leave no harmful residues in the environment. Make sure to label these materials clearly to guide consumers on their proper disposal.

Invest in an Industrial Shredder

For businesses that generate a significant amount of packaging waste, investing in an industrial cardboard shredder can be a smart move. By shredding cardboard, you can significantly reduce its volume, making it easier to transport for recycling. This practice also saves on disposal costs. Plus, if you require void fill, this waste can be repurposed into new packaging. 

Switch from Paper to Digital

Reduce unnecessary paper waste by transitioning to digital solutions where possible. Digital invoices, receipts, and communication not only save paper but also streamline your operations. Transitioning to digital solutions not only saves paper but also offers convenience. For instance, instead of printing product catalogs, consider creating interactive digital catalogues that customers can access online. This reduces the need for physical copies and saves on printing expenses. 

Peel & Seal Packaging

Choose packaging options with easy-open and sealable features. This ensures that your customers can reuse the packaging or dispose of it more responsibly. Peel and seal packaging options, like paper mailing bags or ColomPac postal boxes with adhesive strips, enhance the usability of packaging. With this type of packaging there's no need for additional adhesives like packing tape.

Provide the Right Training

Ensure that your employees understand the importance of reducing packaging waste. Conduct training sessions on proper recycling and disposal practices. Encourage them to be mindful of waste reduction in their daily tasks, such as using reusable coffee cups and avoiding single-use plastics.

Create a Recycling Scheme

Implementing a recycling scheme within your organisation involves setting up designated recycling bins for various materials, such as paper, cardboard, plastics, and electronics. For instance, you can have a bin specifically for cardboard packaging waste generated during shipping and another for office paper waste. Regularly educate employees about the recycling program and its goals.

Reducing packaging waste is not just a responsibility but an opportunity for businesses to make a positive impact on the environment. By implementing these nine strategies, you can contribute to a greener future while also enhancing your brand's reputation as a socially responsible company.