Sustainable. Eco-friendly. Green. We see these words on everything from soap bottles to shipping boxes, but what do they really mean when it comes to packaging? At Flexpak, we believe in cutting through the noise and giving our customers the facts. So let’s break it down: what is sustainable packaging, what isn’t, and how can you actually use it to benefit your business and the planet?
What Is Sustainable Packaging?
Sustainable packaging refers to materials and design choices that minimize environmental impact across the entire life cycle of the package.
That includes:
- How it’s made (Are the materials recycled or renewable?)
- How it’s used (Does it protect the product without excessive waste?)
- Where it ends up (Can it be reused, recycled, or composted?)
In other words, sustainable packaging looks at the big picture — not just whether a material sounds green, but how it actually performs in the real world.
What Sustainable Packaging Isn’t
Let’s be clear: not everything labeled “eco” is truly sustainable.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Biodegradable vs. Compostable. Many “biodegradable” plastics only break down in industrial conditions and if they end up in a landfill, they may not break down at all.
- Recyclable (but not actually recycled). If your customers can’t easily recycle it in their curbside bin, it’s technically recyclable but practically useless.
- Over-packaging. Even eco-materials become wasteful if you use more than necessary. (Ever received a small item in a giant box filled with paper? Exactly.)
The Pillars of Truly Sustainable Packaging
Here’s what we look for when helping clients make more sustainable packaging choices:
1. Recycled & Recyclable Materials
Think: corrugated cardboard, paper void fill, and recyclable film. Bonus points if the materials are also post-consumer recycled.
2. Renewable & Compostable Options
Materials like cornstarch foam, mushroom packaging, and PLA-based mailers are great for businesses with a composting-savvy customer base.
3. Right-Sizing & Smart Design
Sustainability isn’t just about materials, it’s also about using less. Choosing the right box size and optimizing internal packaging reduces waste and shipping costs.
4. Reusability
Some packaging can be designed to be reused (especially for B2B or subscription models). Reusability extends a product’s life and reduces single-use waste.
Why It Matters to Your Business
Sustainable packaging isn’t just about doing the right thing — it’s also smart business.
- Consumers care. 74% of people say they’re willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.
- Retailers are watching. Big retailers are beginning to require greener practices from their vendors.
- You’ll stand out. Packaging is often the first physical interaction your customer has with your brand. Make it memorable and meaningful.
Sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution and it definitely isn’t about perfection. At Flexpak, we help businesses make practical moves toward more sustainable packaging. Whether that’s switching to recyclable tape, right-sizing your boxes, or fully redesigning your packaging system, we’re here to help you do it the right way.
Because when your packaging is smarter, greener, and better for your customer, everyone wins.
Let’s talk about how we can make your packaging more sustainable.
