Despite the cost-of-living crisis, research suggests that today's consumers are more willing than ever to pay higher prices for sustainable packaging.
In one survey, more than four-fifths of consumers said they would be prepared to pay for environmentally friendly packaging - an increase of eight percentage points since 2021 - reflecting evolving attitudes towards sustainable solutions.
For print businesses, the soaring demand for sustainable packaging presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Embracing sustainable packaging will not only meet consumer expectations but also establish your business’s reputation as a leader in environmental responsibility. So, how can your print business support sustainable packaging solutions and what technology and processes are required to help it to ‘go green’?
Understanding sustainable packaging
No print business can embrace sustainability unless it has a clear understanding of what environmentally friendly packaging is and the impact it can make. Sustainable packaging minimises environmental effects through the use of eco-friendly materials, efficient production processes, and recyclability. By utilising renewable resources, it reduces waste and lowers carbon footprints throughout the packaging lifecycle. The goal is to create packaging that is not only functional and appealing but also environmentally responsible.
Choosing the right substrates
Traditionally, packaging has relied upon plastics and non-recyclable materials which are slow to decompose, are dangerous for wildlife, and increase the contamination of microplastics in the environment and food chains. To embrace sustainability, alternative packaging substrates should be chosen, such as:
- Recycled paper and cardboard: These materials are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact compared to virgin paper products which are non-recyclable.
- Biodegradable plastics: Made from renewable resources, such as corn starch, these plastics break down more easily than conventional equivalents.
- Plant-based inks: Using inks derived from soy or other plants can reduce the reliance on petroleum-based inks which are harmful to the environment and pose challenges during disposal.
Technological innovations in sustainable printing
The right technology is crucial to efficiently and effectively produce sustainable packaging. Some advances in printing that support the drive for sustainability include:
- Digital printing: Digital printing reduces waste by allowing for precise print runs and minimising excess inventory. It is ideal for short runs and customised orders, reducing the environmental impact associated with overproduction.
- Water-based inks: These inks are less harmful to the environment compared to solvent-based inks, as they emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are easier to clean, thereby reducing water pollution.
- Eco-friendly coatings: Instead of traditional plastic laminates, consider using water-based or biodegradable coatings that provide protection without compromising recyclability.
Implementing sustainable processes
Beyond using sustainable materials and technology, adopting eco-friendly processes is essential for a print business that wishes to market its green credentials. Sustainable processes include:
- Waste reduction, for example recycling programs for paper, ink cartridges, and other materials, and production techniques that minimise waste, such as print-on-demand.
- Energy efficiency: Investing in energy-efficient machinery and optimising production schedules can reduce energy consumption and reliance on harmful fossil fuels.
- Supply chain management: Partnering with suppliers who champion sustainability will ensure that raw materials are responsibly sourced and that your supply chain practices are transparent and ethical.
Focus Label: your sustainable partner
At Focus Label, we’re committed to helping our customers adopt environmentally friendly technologies and practices. To find out more about how we can help you, please get in touch today.
Image source: Canva
