People dispose of at least 1.9 million tonnes of packaging waste every year [1]. If collected, the waste is more than enough to fill the entire Melbourne Cricket Ground nine times. Not only does packaging consume a lot of energy and natural resources, but it also causes adverse effects on the environment.
Manufacturing companies often use the cheapest means possible to source and manufacture fossil-based plastics without barely giving any thought to how they will get disposed of after use. In most cases, these plastics get thrown into the landfill or, at best, in a low-value recycling facility.
For many businesses, packaging is one of the major problems why it isn’t easy to become eco-friendly. The growth of online shopping has also caused a massive consumption in packaging across the globe, generating more waste. That’s why the Australian Packaging Covenant works hand in hand with the government and other businesses to alleviate the effects of packaging in the country.
The primary benefit of using compostable packaging is that it centres around the circular economy. It means that these plant-based materials can live far beyond the waste state of the cycle by re-entering into the resource stream as compost. This improves the soil quality while sequestering carbon from the air.
To help you decide whether you should make the switch, take a look at the following reasons to utilize compostable packaging for your business.
Improves branding
Using compostable packaging doesn’t reflect how well your business is, but it reflects your company’s overall branding. Consumers nowadays are conscious of the environment and the effects of their choices.
Choosing compostable materials for your packaging is an excellent way to show that you’re responsible and you care about the environment. It’s also an effective way to improve your corporate social responsibility. As a result, you are strengthening your reputation as an organisation that cares deeply about the environment.
Helps expand your market
As many people, including celebrities, are now backing the anti-plastic campaigns, the green movement has been slowly gaining momentum for the past couple of years. Not only does it affect how most people dispose of their waste, but it also affects the products that they purchase and where they get their supplies.
If you’re planning to turn your business into something eco-friendly, then there’s a big chance that more people will keep coming through your doors. One reason is that eco-friendly packaging is incredibly versatile and can suit various products and your preference. Whether you’re running a small-scale business that needs sustainable packaging for food deliveries or an online business, there are multiple options available that’ll fit your needs.
Saves the environment
As most people say, there’s something oddly satisfying about knowing that you’re doing a part to save the environment. By switching to eco-friendly products, you’re reducing your carbon footprint while positively impacting the ecosystem. Using compostable packaging is a great way to help the environment by reducing waste thrown into landfills.
Reduces production costs
Although typical plastic is much cheaper to produce, most compostable products follow the three basic R’s of sustainability: reduce, reuse and recycle. Businesses can reduce waste by using fewer resources by creating thinner, more rigid materials. Companies can even add a special coating to improve their durability to reuse them. Lastly, they can also divert the trash that should go to the landfill by reusing them.
Provides a more convenient disposal
Using eco-friendly packaging materials can also make it easier for your customers to dispose of them properly. By using products that are safe for the environment, people no longer have to worry if their packaging causes direct harm to the environment. For instance, customers can either throw them in the landfill or discard them in their compost bin together with other biodegradable materials.
Reduces toxins and allergens
Regular plastic packaging uses various chemicals that might affect a person’s health and the environment. Given that compostable packaging only uses natural materials, you can guarantee that they’re free of toxins that may be harmful to your health.
Manages your company’s carbon footprint
For companies that want to reduce their carbon footprint, switching to environmentally friendly packaging in Australia is a practical choice. One of the primary benefits of using sustainable packaging is its positive effect on lowering the overall carbon consumption.
Retains existing customers
Compostable packaging is also an effective way to retain customers. In addition to attracting new customers, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll keep more existing customers by letting them know how much you value the environment.
Eases carbon emissions
Compostable packaging needs less energy and resources compared to traditional plastic material, so you can undoubtedly release fewer carbon emissions in the air. Furthermore, most earth-friendly packaging manufacturers are carbon neutral. As a result, you can guarantee that your business will have more sustainable packaging options for customers.
Takeaways
Compostable packaging is now paving the way for many businesses to switch to a greener route. By doing so, you are reducing the energy spent and the emissions produced by manufacturing packaging materials. You’re also reducing the waste that gets sent to the landfill.
Remember that shopping sustainable is always a choice. With many consumers now choosing companies that promote sustainable products to align with their eco-friendly stand, it’s best to make the switch. Not only will you gain new customers, but you will also help save the environment.