It is no secret that globally, the amount of plastic polluting the ocean and filling landfills is increasing at an alarming rate. Here are a few key statistics highlighting the problem we are facing:
How do we address plastic usage in the packaging industry?
As key contributors to plastic pollution globally, there are a number of ways to reduce, reuse or recycle plastic in the industry – or to cut it out altogether and opt for more eco-friendly materials.
Alternative materials for packaging
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Eco-friendly mailing bags As an alternative to the typical polythene mailing bags, these bags have been developed using sugar cane, described as the greenest option on the market. This is a carbon neutral option which still retains the same level of strength and durability as standard polythene bags. |
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Ecostrap™ paper strapping Ecostrap™ is an eco-friendly alternative to polypropylene strapping which is used to secure packaging. This plastic-free paper strapping can bear weight of up to 55kg, so is a high performing solution which can also be easily recycled. |
ecorap™ Corrugated Paper Roll
This paper wrapping solution is an eco-friendly alternative to bubblewrap. The corrugation adds strength and durability to the paper, giving it a protective quality to prevent damage to products when wrapped. ecorap™ is reusable and recyclable.
Paper Shooter Voidfill System Paperplus
The Paperplus Voidfill System is a heavier packing solution than plastic air bubbles, but affords significantly more flexibility in packing, and is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic void fill. The crumpled paper is manipulated into chevrons, giving the paper more strength to provide insulation and protective layering.
Woolcool fleece liners
This eco-friendly product uses the natural insulating properties of wool in fresh food packages of up to 30kg. These liners are a fully compostable alternative to traditional thermal packaging liners and are usually used for fresh fruit and vegetables, chocolates and confectionaries.
Recycled materials for packaging
Vortex-Eco blown hexene stretch film
This unique stretch film is the made of 30% recycled polymer, 19% virgin polymer, and 51% plant resin. It is the first carbon neutral stretch film and offers an eco-friendly alternative to other plastic cling and stretch wraps.
Standard polythene mailing bags
These standard mailing bags are made from recycled materials and are themselves easily recycled. They provide a lightweight postage solution for garments and are durable enough to withstand breakage in transit.