As per national geographic about 5 trillion plastic debris pieces are in the ocean. The primary causes are improper waste management and littering, with customers using plastic only once before discarding it when it might be recycled. Packaging is one instance where this is a problem.
Sustainable packaging materials are needed to reduce the environmental impact of packaging. They can help reduce waste, conserve resources, and reduce pollution. Sustainable packaging materials are also more cost effective than traditional materials, making them a great choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Additionally, sustainable packaging materials can help to reduce the amount of packaging waste that ends up in landfills, helping to protect our planet for future generations.
Be it food or fashion every customer experience can be influenced by the use of packaging. Consumers’ interest in sustainability put pressure on manufacturers to think of novel biodegradable packaging solutions.
According to McKinsey research, 55% of consumers are worried about how packaging will affect the environment, and 70% of them say they’d be willing to pay extra for environmentally friendly packaging. The global biodegradable packaging materials market is estimated at USD 88 Billion in 2022 and is forecast to surpass USD 169 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2022 to 2032. Download a sample of this report.
These are the top biodegradable packaging materials your brand should think of-
Starch-based Plastic
Unwanted garbage can be recycled to create a practical substance that can wrap and safeguard items. When properly disposed of, bioplastics don’t pollute because they are made of entirely toxin-free biomasses that can be eaten. The basic ingredient for corn-based packaging materials, which may be converted into fiber or film and is affordable, easy to produce, and sustainable. All brands should utilize plastic packaging and containers created from renewable resources that can be recycled as fertilizer.
Paper
Although we most likely identify paper packaging with Lush cosmetics and food shopping, paper is really one of the first flexible packaging materials designed to safeguard valuable, delicate products. Amcor in 2021, started to use entirely paper-made packaging for their products where the paper packaging is 38% lighter than foil and aluminum packaging which has reduced carbon footprint.
Water soluble plastic
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a synthetic polymer produced without the use of heavy toxic metals, is used to make water-soluble plastic. When it comes into touch with boiling water, it melts. These bags are used as garment packaging. This substance functions similarly to the wrapping film seen on laundry or dishwasher tablets. Currently, it’s utilized to create premium, green garment bags.
Organic fabric
Natural, plant-based fabrics like cotton are biodegradable and may be composted simply without leaving any hazardous pollutants behind. Hemp, tapioca, and palm leaves are additional elements that take about 100 days to break down. Companies like Eco Enclose have been awarded for organic packaging solutions and innovation.
Acid-free tissue paper
Tissue paper without acids offers better biodegradability when composted alongside regular tissue paper. Because it is totally recyclable and is created from either wood fibers or recycled resources, this form of paper utilizes fewer chemical agents during production. Acid-free tissue paper is perfect for wrapping products since it provides excellent protection for packaging without damaging contents.
Polylactic acid
Polylactic acid, or PLA, is a biodegradable material manufactured from plant extracts like corn and sugarcane. This indicates that it is created from sustainable resources, making it a more natural substitute for fossil fuels.
Jute
Jute is entirely organic, biodegradable, and can even be used as garden compost. Jute is far more environmentally friendly than paper since it degrades more quickly and composts more effectively.I t can be recycled considerably more efficiently than paper and can be used repeatedly for a number of purposes.