What Makes Cardboard Packaging Sustainable

Cardboard packaging isn’t all equally sustainable. Find out what to look for to choose a sustainable packaging supplier.

Recycled Fibre Content

Most boxes will be made up of a mixture of recycled fibre and virgin wood fibre. The percentage of recycled fibre used is important, as it ensures that fewer trees are being chopped down and less energy is being expended to make the packaging. A figure of over 70% recycled fibre is generally acceptable for most types of shipping boxes, however food packaging will require higher levels of virgin fibre for hygiene reasons.

Forestry Certifications to Look For

Virgin fibres are often used for food packaging due to hygiene reasons, so it is important to check whether the supplier uses responsibly sourced wood fibres. Look for the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC certification mark on the packaging or supplier’s documentation. Both schemes promote responsible forestry management, and suppliers should be able to confirm which standard they use.

Inks, Coatings, and Adhesives

Inks, Coatings, Adhesives – check for plastic or solvents. If a box is contaminated then it cannot be recycled. Look for water-based inks and coatings, such as uncoated or lightly coated cardboard. Also, check tapes and labels for synthetic adhesives. Water-activated paper tape is better than plastic-coated tape or labels with solvent-based adhesives.

The Structural Efficiency of Corrugated Board

The fluted middle section of cardboard provides incredible strength for minimal weight. It is vastly more efficient than packaging made from solid plastic of comparable strength, as it uses less weight of raw material per package. This means less use of resources and less emissions from transportation.

End of Life in UK Kerbside Recycling

Cardboard is one of the most widely accepted packaging materials in the UK’s kerbside recycling system. In terms of recycling cardboard through the kerbside recycling system, the material is pulped, cleaned and re-manufactured into new cardboard packaging products within weeks. For Cardboard Packaging, visit https://capscases.co.uk/services-2/sustainable-cardboard-packaging/.

It’s easy to choose sustainable packaging if you ask the right questions before you place an order.