Packaging is the most visible sustainability signal a product business sends. Here's how to specify eco-friendly packaging that customers will notice.
Packaging is where customers most directly experience your sustainability values. The choices you make about packaging materials communicate your brand before a word is read.
Boxes and mailers
FSC certified corrugated or solid board is the standard for sustainable packaging. Kraft board has a natural aesthetic that communicates sustainability. Avoid glossy lamination on outer boxes — it prevents recycling. Aqueous coating provides modest protection without this problem.
Bags
Paper carrier bags on FSC certified or recycled paper are a genuine improvement on plastic. For reusable bags, GOTS certified organic cotton is the gold standard. Recycled PET (rPET) bags — made from recycled plastic bottles — are excellent when water resistance is needed.
Labels
FSC certified paper labels with permanent adhesive are the baseline. For wet conditions, waterproof polypropylene labels are necessary — specify matt rather than gloss for a more natural look.
Tissue paper and tape
FSC certified tissue with water-based inks is fully recyclable. Gummed paper tape is recyclable with the box — a significant improvement on polypropylene tape.
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