There are a wide variety of materials that can be used for a product's packaging -- plastic, metal, cardboard, glass, and so on. But what happens to those materials once they are thrown out? To avoid adding to landfills, which can cause harm to the local environment, many companies are switching to recyclable materials for a more flexible packaging design. In recent years, more and more consumers are becoming aware of a company's affect on the ecosystem. If your company is looking to adopt a more eco-friendly outlook, here are a few recyclable materials to incorporate into your products container packaging.
Paper and Cardboard
Paper is one of the most used products for packaging due to its ease of access. Paper and paper products such as cardboard are reusable, biodegradable, and in most cases recyclable. Many flexible packaging suppliers offer eco-friendly cardboard packaging solutions, which implements recycled paper into brand new packaging.
Plastics
Plastics are a versatile material, and can be used in all types of materials. This includes packaging, trash bags, cups, eating utensils, sporting and recreational equipment, toys, medical devices and disposable diapers. Most plastic products with a lifetime of three years of less are generally referred to as non-durables. Rigid plastics such as tubs, pots, or jars, are the second largest packing category, with a 27% share. In addition, recyclable plastics are popular with consumers, due to its ease of disposal. A 2011 study found that 94% of Americans have access to plastic bottle recycling. In addition, 40% of Americans have the ability to recycle other types of plastic containers such as dairy tubs, yogurt cups, and lids.
Glass
Glass is a type of transparent packaging that has been used by many companies. Due to its durability, glass is a popular recyclable container packaging material, especially for food and beverage packaging. When gas is recycled and used into the manufacturing of new glass, there is less energy used in the process. Many food and beverage packaging companies have now been adding recycled glass into their new production of jars or bottles. This reduces the overall impact made on the environment.
Using recyclable, biodegradable materials for your product's container packaging is a great way to reduce your company's impact on the environment, and may even save you money. In many states, companies with recycling programs are given special grants or tax incentives. In addition, consumers will have a more positive view of your business, and are more likely to purchase your product again and again.