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Manufacture of ecological packaging

Ever since packaging has gone from being purely functional to a marketing tool, the question of resource overuse and increased waste has increasingly been raised. Is it possible to make packaging not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly? Let’s talk about modern packaging and the latest discoveries in the field.

 

How the packaging industry affects the environment

Countries with developed economies and high standards of living to generate the most rubbish. People make more purchases in these countries. But it’s not just about that. What matters is how and what goods are packaged. The subsequent disposal and recycling of cartons and containers is a growing problem.

 

The widespread use of plastic for the packaging of a wide range of goods is due to its physical properties. It is lightweight, robust and can be moulded into bottles, jars and boxes of any shape, colour and size. In addition, it perfectly protects goods and products from contamination and accidental damage. In spite of these obvious advantages, plastics have a very long degradation period. For this reason, inventors are faced with the challenge of finding new, environmentally friendly packaging materials.

 

While scientists are looking for new alternatives, each of us can do our bit for the environment. What can consumers do to help nature? The first step that will have an impact on reducing waste is to prefer minimally packaged goods. The second step is to choose products with environmentally friendly packaging. It should be made from natural raw materials. The materials from which it is made are available in abundance and are renewable natural resources. At the same time, they are easily recyclable and their decomposition is not detrimental to nature.

Most packaging is required for foodstuffs

Studies show that the following products need the most packaging:

  • food and beverages
  • hygiene products and cosmetics
  • household chemicals

As for the food segment, materials are required for in-store sales, delivery and ready meals in catering facilities. Nutrition is a basic human need. The turnover in retail chains requires a huge amount of packaging for every product. The situation is hindered by the fact that packaging must be plentiful and available on a regular basis.

 

In the food industry, plastic is still in the lead. Many manufacturers are trying to replace it with safe and environmentally friendly materials.

Among the leaders in terms of packaging requirements are cosmetics companies

Among all the packaging used, plastic continues to lead the way. That is why it has become important to gradually replace it with new biodegradable materials.

Cosmetic brands have increasingly begun to make advertising campaigns to emphasise their support for the environmental agenda. Since more than 120 billion different cosmetic products are produced each year, each of which needs to be packaged. And only 9% of all cans and bottles can be recycled and become non-waste packaging. Not so fast, but gradually the eco-approach in the cosmetics business is becoming the norm.

As one way of drawing attention to the pollution problem, some well-known brands have started to organise the acceptance of empty bottles of their own brand. Customers are stimulated by receiving a symbolic gift – a face mask or a sample of a new product – in return for such a move.

 

  • Modern, sustainable packaging materials

Any material can be considered eco-friendly if it has no negative impact on the environment. The following natural materials are used in the production of environmentally friendly packaging:

  • compostable
  • biodegradable
  • reusable
  • recyclable (recyclable)
  • non-toxic
  • contain low levels of environmentally damaging toxic substances

Biodegradable, environmentally friendly packaging materials made of polymers can be a good alternative to the widely used synthetic ones. A great deal of attention in today’s packaging material production is paid to the presence of biodegradable components in the composition. One of these components is simple starch. Contact with water is sufficient to degrade products containing starch. Special microorganisms, biodegraders, also help in the decomposition process. This approach makes it possible to produce a material that does not contaminate the environment.

 

Eco plant packaging is a reality

Modern technology has evolved to such an extent that it is now possible to obtain eco-packaging from plant-based raw materials. Wrapping becomes waste immediately after the purchase of a product. Eco products save the situation, as they decompose easily and quickly. At the same time, products packaged in materials made from natural ingredients become presentable and exclusive.

 

Among this kind of packaging you can find:

  • tableware (bamboo, palm, cane)
  • wicker baskets, boxes, eco-boxes, stands for cosmetics from abaca
  • baskets and dishes made of raffia or palm leaves

 

Ecological packaging gives the same cosmetics an exclusive look and boosts sales compared to standard packaging in polythene or propylene cosmetic bags. In addition, a sleek paper bag or a designer eco box helps create a unique, recognisable style. This visual gimmick has been adopted by major global manufacturers of cosmetics, perfumes and other women’s products. They emphasise their concern for the quality of life and the natural environment.

 

Popular Kraft paper bags

Kraft paper bags have gained popularity for their aesthetic appeal and 100 % degradability. It takes about a year for the bag to dissolve completely. The bags are made from special kraft paper. Despite the apparent brittleness, it is the special properties of the bags that make them highly durable. An additional advantage is that the goods and products lying inside are protected from fluctuations in humidity and temperature.

Besides, Kraft paper is able to absorb moisture and fats. A different type of paper is used for each product group. It can be thicker and denser, have a coarser texture, and different types of coating and colour. Among varieties of this material, there are many to choose from. Kraft paper products are used for packaging clothes, cosmetics, foodstuffs, various household goods and industrial products. One thing can be said – eco Kraft paper packaging is versatile and is used wherever there is a need for paper packaging with high durability.

 

Edible eco packs have been invented

The inventors are not stopping there and are improving the development of packaging. In the future, scientists have the task of creating a completely edible one. A number of countries have already created an edible film. It consists of starch and water-based polymers, which are suitable for consumption. This film is fully digestible by the body. But the main task copes with excellent – it stores food. Textual information about the product can be printed on the film. The ink is also edible.

Where can such material be used? The film is suitable for hard confectionery (candies, bars), honey, dietary supplements and vitamins, food for athletes, and spices. It can also be used to wrap food for astronauts.

 

Optimal packaging material eco cardboard

Eco cardboard boxes are the best option for wrapping both gifts and food. It is believed that the packaging of goods in boxes began when there was a need to present gifts beautifully. Over time, the design of boxes began to evolve. Various materials are used for their production. But the most environmentally friendly is eco cardboard.

Today the range of packaging is presented in great abundance. You can choose any material, colour and shape. This is the easiest thing to do with cardboard as it is easy to produce. The trend is toward monochrome and minimalistic decor on gift boxes. The laconic design emphasizes the status of the giver and his attitude.

The wave of popularity of eco-materials has led to the fact that simple eco cardboard boxes have become in particular demand in the market of packaging materials. The cardboard looks stylish and modern.

 

Leader in packaging fragile items corrugated cardboard

 

Corrugated cardboard is the most popular eco-friendly packaging material. It is used to produce boxes of various sizes and shapes. The main advantages of corrugated cardboard are:

  • easy
  • fully ecological
  • recyclable
  • Highly protective

As far as applications for corrugated cardboard are concerned, they are very broad. Due to its exceptional properties, it is even suitable for packaging fragile items, most often glass and crystal.

 

Which corrugated cardboard profile is suitable for packaging

Each corrugated board profile has its own distinctive properties on the basis of which its grade is determined. Any corrugated board is made from a special paper with a density in the range of 100-140 g/m2. The most expensive grades contain more pulp than waste paper.

The corrugated fibreboard structure is based on an alternation of flat layers with corrugated layers. Depending on the number of different layers, the height of the corrugation and the corrugation pitch the profile type is determined. The combination of the different profiles determines the stiffness of the corrugated board, which becomes a decisive factor for the choice of packaging.

 

Corrugated cardboard gradeDescription
Profile A (large corrugation)

 

 

Profile B (exact corrugation)

Suitable for packing fragile goods and also as a pallet. The advantages of the profile include high elasticity, resistance to stacking and excellent cushioning properties. The disadvantages are that the material cannot be printed

is Used for packaging non-fragile products and industrial goods. At the same time, it is suitable for printing and corrugated box production. However, profile B is not suitable for stacking and has low cushioning

Profile C (middle corrugation)Universal eco-friendly packaging is most often made of this profile, as it is suitable for a wide variety of goods. It is resistant to mechanical damage and easy to stack. Its only disadvantage is the low print quality
Profile E (micro flute)E profile is used in the production of a special material – micro corrugated board. It is no more than 2 mm thick and lightweight. But despite this, it has high strength and stiffness. These properties make corrugated cardboard the smallest eco-boxes. This means that they can only support a low weight and are not suitable for stacking.
F profile 

(thin cardboard)

Thin cardboard is designed for packaging exclusive goods. Any colour is possible. Its properties make it lightweight and durable. It is suitable for self-assembly boxes. But not suitable for packaging heavy goods

Advantages of the eco box as packaging

Almost any item or product can be wrapped in cardboard. It looks great as a gift box. But it’s just as practical for food. Why has eco-cardboard become so popular?

 

  1. Eco-friendliness

The cardboard is made from environmentally friendly materials. Easily biodegradable and recyclable

  1. Retains liquids and grease

The inner layer of the cardboard is grease-retaining and moisture-retaining. This is why the carton is so popular for storing and packaging greasy and liquid foods

  1. Suitable for use in microwave ovens

The eco cardboard food containers are completely safe and can be used in microwave ovens

  1. Suitable for recycling

All eco-cardboard products are recyclable. Recycling reduces the production of virgin raw materials

  1. Attractive look

Thanks to the efforts of designers, the eco-cardboard packaging has a brilliant look

All products made of eco-cardboard conform to international quality and safety certificates.

Advantages of eco-friendly packaging

  • Benefits of eco-friendly packaging

 

Despite the obvious need for eco-friendly packaging, it is worth highlighting its advantages over conventional synthetic packaging.

 

  1. Reduces the carbon footprint

Universal eco packaging helps to keep the environment clean. Most of the time, biodegradable and recyclable materials are used for its production. This has a positive effect on reducing the use of primary resources.

 

  1. Costs of producing eco-friendly packaging

As far as the production process is concerned, it requires less fuel and electricity. Switching to a green agenda means reducing the amount of materials used. For this reason, there is less pressure on production, distribution and delivery. Together, all of this has a positive effect on conserving energy sources and protecting nature.

 

  1. Universality

As the production of organic packaging directly protects the environment, modern eco-friendly packaging is highly versatile. They can be used in every branch where conventional synthetic materials were previously used. They are suitable for everything: cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, automotive, food and light industry.

 

  1. Eco packaging improves brand reputation and company image

Anything with an eco prefix can boost the image of a product or brand. When customers and consumers realise that a company is taking an eco-conscious line in its business development, they begin to see it as more credible. Such awareness makes a company and its products attractive, even though they may cost more. A better image is good for the company’s bottom line. And last but not least, it makes the company more attractive to investors. In the long term, it means being able to stay in the market.

 

World-renowned brands are among the first to support the environmental agenda. An example of this is the popular fast-food chains. They have long been using environmentally friendly packaging materials: paper bags and cardboard envelopes.  For some time now, plastic cups have been replaced by products made of dense recycled cardboard. Plastic drinks and cocktail tubes are also gradually disappearing from the chains.

The producer of Coca-Cola actively promotes its drink in a glass bottle. And this has not gone unnoticed, but has only played to the product’s recognition.

 

  1. Supporting environmental government programmes

The government is now paying more and more attention to the environmental agenda. This applies not just to packaging, but to all areas of life. The problem of recycling and disposal of waste in the long term is forcing the expenditure of enormous financial resources. They could be channelled into other important sectors. Some countries around the world are taking radical measures at the national level to ban the circulation of plastic bags. In Kenya, for example, there is a fine for selling or even using such a bag. In some cases, it can even lead to imprisonment. Morocco has a total ban on plastic bags.

 

Labelling of goods with environmental labels

A special marking is used to prove that the packaging complies with environmental regulations. In addition to being affixed to the packaging, they can also be affixed to the product itself.

The reason for the introduction of the label is the trend towards “responsible purchasing”. The consumer is aware of the need to preserve nature. And the manufacturer is using this idea to increase demand for his products. 

Society is faced with major challenges:

  • increased levels of greenhouse gases
  • energy consumption for production
  • recycling and use of recycled materials

 

With these factors in mind, manufacturers are striving to reduce the burden on the environment by introducing new types of eco-friendly packaging. 

The eco label clearly demonstrates that the packaging is recyclable, contains no harmful substances or is made from biodegradable raw materials.

 

In order to place an eco-label on their products, they must undergo an environmental assessment process. Companies do this in order to improve their reputation in the market. By implementing eco programmes, the manufacturer first and foremost reduces production costs.

As far as consumers are concerned, most of the time people do not pay attention to special symbols indicated on the packaging and limit themselves to reading the contents. But eco-labels can tell us a lot about the quality of the chosen product. First and foremost, that the production and packaging processes and the composition are environmentally friendly. The manufacturer’s conscientious attitude towards its products and concern for the consumer inspires confidence.

 

Reading the environmental labels on packaging

The fashion for awareness and respect for nature is pushing consumers to read the packaging carefully. People are looking for clean, natural and healthy products, be it food or clothing. In order to understand the information on a product, you need to be able to understand the symbols on it.

Eco-labels when labelling products fall into three groups:

  • eco-products
  • eco packaging
  • eco food (organic food)

 

  • Mark
  •                   Identification
A green dot sign indicates that the manufacturer has participated in financing the construction or operation of a national system for recycling waste packaging
Sign as a reminder to throw the packaging in the bin after use
The sign indicates that the packaging can be recycled and the material from which it is made can be recycled. Numbers and letters may be placed together with the sign. They indicate the type of raw material used
The mark is on biodegradable packaging which is suitable for composting
The symbol is found on the packaging of household appliances and electrical appliances. It means that used appliances must be disposed of via specialised collection points. Products must not be disposed of with general household waste

 

What are the challenges of producing organic packaging

One of the reasons why the use of biodegradable materials has not yet reached the masses is the lack of technology. This is due to the high cost of production. Nevertheless, engineers and technologists are still looking for ways to reduce costs. Existing biodegradable materials are being further developed and improved. In the near future, the world may gradually move to fully eco-friendly packaging.

“The green agenda” is being redefined everywhere, from major retailers to manufacturers. The eco-packaging industry is growing rapidly. Business experts are predicting rapid development in this area. According to the analysts, the market is still young and a vacant niche. And yet the demand for eco-packaging is steadily increasing. This is not the least due to the development of e-commerce. This can be explained by the fact that any actively developing trend strives to keep up with the times and takes into account current trends. This also applies to the approach to product packaging.

It is important to begin gradually moving towards using and producing eco-friendly packaging today. After all, the demand for it will obviously increase in the future. And the cost of packaging will also increase. Therefore, the sales chain should be set up with these factors in mind.

 

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