Now more than ever, consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of non-recyclable materials. This environmental awareness has driven many well-known brands like Amazon, Patagonia, and Calvin Klein to test out sustainable packaging options and consider becoming zero-waste companies. It’s important for sellers to take these behaviors into consideration as many consumers lean towards making more ethical purchasing decisions. Based on current sustainability trends, it's safe to say customers will continue to seek out brands that offer zero-waste packaging options.
Exploring Eco-Friendly Options
The Shift in Consumer Decision Making
Sustainability has become a driving force in consumer purchasing decisions as Millennials and Gen Z buyers become increasingly concerned about reducing their carbon footprint. In fact, a 2019 report conducted by Forbes revealed that 62% of Gen Z buyers have a preference for companies who offer sustainable packaging options. To the benefit of companies who are looking to go green, sustainable packaging strategies can help with market performance. A survey by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development shows that on average, sustainable companies returned about 4% higher margins than their counterparts.
Big Companies Going Green
Another trend to anticipate when it comes to sustainability is more big brands committing to going green. In 2020, companies like Colgate, The Coca Cola Company, The Clorox Company, and General Mills signed the U.S. Plastics Pact. The pact was created with the goal of ensuring that plastic never becomes waste by finding ways to make all plastics reusable, recyclable, or compostable, The U.S. Plastics Pacts also aims to circulate all the plastic items we use to keep them in the economy and out of the environment. Even big brands who haven’t signed the U.S. Plastics Pact have made efforts towards sustainability through their packaging. McDonald’s has plans to make all their packaging recyclable by 2025, for example.
Using Recycled Materials in Packaging
A challenge in sustainable packaging is ensuring that the materials being used are high-quality and can keep what’s inside the package safe. Two options many big brands are switching to include corrugated paper and recycled plastic. Corrugated packaging’s benefits include renewability, recyclability, reusability, and it is known to save energy in production. This packaging material is also great for creating custom-sized containers. Meanwhile, recycled plastic is a green alternative when corrugated paper isn’t strong enough to protect the items that need to be packaged.
GCB Solutions has the packaging industry experience to help you through shifting trends. We offer custom packaging services, including carton erecting and filling, taping, gluing, coding, and labeling using state-of-the-art equipment. Whether you are beginning the design process or looking to make that final push to launch, we can help.
Call us at (904) 263-2804 or schedule a free consultation, today
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