Sustainable packaging is becoming increasingly important in today's world, consumers are becoming more aware of the impact consumption habits are having on the environment. Brands that prioritise sustainable packaging not only show their commitment to the planet, but also attract environmentally conscious customers who are willing to spend more on sustainable goods.
The circular economy, defined by the World Economic Forum as "an industrial system that is restorative or regenerative by intention and design," is a key concept in sustainable packaging. In a circular economy, materials are reused rather than disposed of, with every process in the life cycle of a product is fully optimised to avoid landfill, toxins, and pollution. This differs from the linear economy's take-make-dispose pattern and the recycling economy, in which waste is first converted into recycled content before being disposed of.
Businesses can switch to a circular economy by ditching single-use plastics, choosing eco-friendly materials, and implementing sustainable disposal methods. Compostable, recyclable, and reusable packaging are all options for circular packaging. Compostable packaging is made from virgin plant-based materials like corn or wheat and bio-polymers, and decomposes naturally in a compost. Recyclable packaging is made from previously used materials and can be processed at recycling facilities and put back into circulation. Reusable packaging is designed to be used more than once and has a built-in secondary (or ongoing) use.
While each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, they all contribute to reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of packaging. By connecting with a circular community and working with sustainable packaging providers, businesses can make the switch to circular packaging and build their brand on a strong, sustainable foundation.
At My Needs Are Simple, we're proud to offer our customers a range of eco-friendly packaging options like Compostable Mailers, Recycled Boxes and Biodegradable Mailers. Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for businesses to switch to circular packaging and make a positive impact on the environment.
As we look towards the future, we are dedicated to fully transitioning to circular packaging by the end of 2023, ensuring that all aspects of our dispatch and distribution are in line with our ethical and environmentally-conscious values.
