Sustainability has increased in importance in recent years. As a result, the word “sustainable” is being used in many different ways and contexts. Sustainable packaging, such as stand up pouches, consists of materials that can be disposed of or recycled and have a minimal lasting environmental impact. Find out more about the possibilities of sustainable and recyclable packaging for any products.
What Is Sustainable Packaging?
Sustainable packaging is produced with renewable resources and disposed of in ways that do not create lasting or harmful waste. For example, packaging made of recyclable materials that can be reused or recycled materials that have been used before may be considered sustainable, but the meaning of this term extends beyond recycling.
Packaging produced from sustainably grown or produced new or virgin materials may be considered sustainable. This is the case for paper packaging certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Sustainable packaging may also describe compostable packing materials that biodegrade or decompose. In short, packaging that is chosen to conserve resources and minimize negative environmental impact is considered sustainable.
Features That Make Packaging Sustainable
Several identifiable features can indicate that packaging is produced with the aim of sustainability. Check to see the materials that are used to produce packaging as well as the methods. In general, mono material packaging is the easiest to recycle. The source and composition of this material will determine its level of sustainability. Multi-material packaging may require separation for recycling. The composition of the materials used will determine the level of sustainability of packaging.
Producers that package products in 100% polyethylene, which is a recyclable material, can indicate that this material is recyclable with a How2Recycle identification code or store drop-off symbol. Indications that packaging materials contain post-consumer recyclable material is another indication of sustainability. It is also possible to recycle some other plastics, such as Mylar. These materials can be printed on digitally with sustainable and compostable ink that produces high-definition designs and photo-quality images.
What To Look For In Sustainable Packaging
Brands that want to know how to make custom printed Mylar bags more sustainable should be aware of the features of this material. A few facilities exist to recycle Mylar, so it is important to provide consumers with the information they need to responsibly dispose of this material. Producers that provide information about proper packaging disposal demonstrate a commitment to the value of sustainability.
Mylar is a polyester film made of stretched polyethylene terephthalate that can be used to make stand-up or lay-flat pouches. Dual layer films made of this material may be eligible for the How2Recycle #2 Resin ID code for HDPE streams or store drop-off. Choosing to print packaging digitally using polymer-based inks and solventless lamination without hazardous air pollutants is also important for making materials more sustainable.
Some sustainable packaging is made of recyclable or recycled materials, while other materials may decompose into non-toxic particles. The deciding factor that makes packaging sustainable is an informed choice of materials that can be disposed of in ways that reduce waste and the environmental impact of a brand.