With the number of parcels continuing to rise, shipping goods sustainably is becoming much more important. In 2022, the volume of parcels shipped within the UK reached 5.1 billion – that’s roughly 14 million per day. Given volumes this high, the environmental impact of packaging materials is prolific. That’s why businesses more than ever need to do their part by ensuring they protect goods in transit but with sustainability in mind.

Understand the Environmental Impact of Packaging

Single-use packaging is disastrous for the environment. Official statistics show that 36% of the UK’s packaging is not recycled and ends up in landfills, leading to greenhouse gas emissions and long-term pollution.

That’s why businesses must lead the way in reducing packaging waste while still maintaining the safety of products in transit.

But where to start?

By embracing the 3 R’s – reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Reducing Packaging

To begin, it is important to review your packaging and see how you can eliminate unnecessary materials. That could mean too much plastic, too large of a box, or anything that is just plain unnecessary. This saves on waste and can also help reduce shipping weight, which cuts down on carbon emissions.

Reusable Packaging

Reusable packaging goes a step further as it allows materials to be used multiple times before being recycled. Several examples include plastic crates, glass bottles, metal containers, and, of course, cardboard boxes. Your business can cut waste and even save money on packaging through reuse, while ensuring that products get to customers safely.

Recyclable Packaging

Recyclable packaging is manufactured from materials that have been treated or processed to be used again. This significantly minimises the need for raw materials and reduces waste. For example, honeycomb paper (an alternative to plastic bubble wrap) can be recycled multiple times and can still protect your goods in transit.

Plant-Based and Compostable Packaging

Plant-based packaging, made from renewable resources like cornstarch, bamboo, or sugarcane, is a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. These materials are biodegradable and can be broken down into natural components, reducing landfill waste. Compostable packaging takes this a step further by decomposing into nutrient-rich soil, providing an eco-friendly packaging solution that nurtures the environment.

Post-Consumer Recycled Materials

Packaging made from post-consumer recycled materials uses previously discarded products, turning waste into valuable resources. This approach reduces the demand for new raw materials and can decrease carbon emissions associated with production.

Adopting a Circular Economy Approach

A circular economy is what we all need to embrace for the future survival of our planet. This is because it aims to eliminate waste and promote the continual use of resources. In this model, products are designed for reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling.

In contrast, the traditional linear economy, which operates on a ‘take, make, dispose’ model, is no longer sustainable. That’s why adopting sustainable packaging solutions and embracing the 3 R’s is so crucial for businesses going forward to reduce waste and reduce carbon emissions.

So to summarise, what can you do to protect goods in transit sustainably?

• Minimise Packaging: Reduce the amount of packaging used while still ensuring adequate product protection.
• Choose to Reuse: See how you can switch to used packaging materials when shipping goods. Perhaps implement a reuse model with your customers – just like we do for Oddbox! – or encourage customers to reuse packaging to extend its use.
• Switch to Recycled Materials: Opt for packaging made from recycled content.