Embracing eco plastics

In today’s world, where environmental awareness is growing rapidly, industries are increasingly shifting towards sustainable practices. In packaging, with pressing concerns surrounding plastic pollution, eco plastics have emerged as a vital alternative in the drive toward a sustainable future.

Sustainability is not merely a trend; it is a necessity. Recent statistics reveal that over 300 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally each year, and a staggering 91% of this plastic is not recycled. This alarming situation poses serious threats to our planet, oceans, wildlife, and human health. As a result, the packaging industry is making the transition to more sustainable materials – with many moving to fibre based packaging. Yet, eco plastics too represent a promising solution, combining aesthetic appeal, functionality, and environmental responsibility.

Eco plastics – made from more sustainable materials than traditional plastics, and with the ability to biodegrade – are designed to minimise environmental impact. These materials break down more quickly than traditional plastics, significantly reducing waste and pollution. Many eco plastics are derived from renewable sources, such as plant materials, which enhance their sustainability.

And, of course, they are recyclable – but so are existing plastics, but we simply do not recycle enough of it.

In landfill, unlike conventional petroleum based plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, eco plastics can degrade within a few months in commercial composting facilities. As consumer awareness grows, the demand for products that are effective and environmentally friendly is also increasing, leading to greater adoption of eco plastics across industries including packaging.

The importance of sustainable packaging cannot be understated. Traditional materials, particularly non biodegradable plastics, fill up landfills and contaminate our environment.

Adopting sustainable packaging options reduces the overall carbon footprint associated with packaging. Eco friendly materials may require less energy for production and disposal, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, companies that adopt these practices often see enhanced brand image and increased customer loyalty, translating into higher profits.

There are several types of eco plastics that are gaining traction in the packaging sector. Notable examples include:

PLA (Polylactic Acid): Derived from renewable resources like corn starch, PLA is biodegradable and compostable. It serves as a suitable alternative for products such as food containers and beverage cups. PLA can decompose in composting facilities in as little as 90 days.

PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates): These biodegradable polymers originate from organic materials through microbial fermentation. PHA is versatile, with applications ranging from packaging films to disposable cutlery, and can decompose in various environments, including oceans.

Recycled PET (rPET): Made from recycled PET plastic, rPET helps reduce the need for new plastic production. Brands using rPET in their packaging can decrease plastic waste significantly, promoting a circular economy where materials are reused rather than discarded.

Starch based plastics: Derived from natural starch sources, these plastics are often used for bags and packaging materials. They are biodegradable and decompose efficiently in composting environments.

By opting for one or a combination of these eco plastics, businesses can greatly reduce their environmental impact.

Despite the benefits of eco plastics, challenges persist in their widespread adoption. One significant issue is cost; eco plastics often have higher production costs than traditional materials, which can deter smaller businesses from switching.

Moreover, the infrastructure for composting and recycling eco plastics is still very limited.

In addition, some eco plastics may not meet the performance characteristics expected in certain industries. Businesses reliant on durability and resistance may hesitate to adopt these new materials due to concerns about quality.

Consumer demand significantly drives the shift towards eco plastics. Recent surveys show that 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging options. This growing preference creates a substantial market for eco plastics or other more sustainable materials for packaging.

If your packaging cannot move to fibre based packaging, a shift to eco plastics represents a meaningful step towards sustainability. While there are challenges to overcome, the advantages of innovative solutions that marry functionality with environmental responsibility are clear.