BLOG - Tips for Sustainable Packaging Development

We know that the sustainability of packaging arises from the initial moment of its conception. A packaging can be sustainable according to the origin of its raw materials, manufacturing process, recyclability and degradation.

So, when developing packaging, what do we need to take into account in order for the packaging to be sustainable?

Here are the main points to consider:

• Materials: recycled cardboard is the best sustainable material option, as it transforms post-consumer materials into raw material for packaging, thus promoting the cardboard cycle. As a domestic industry alternative, Papelera del Sur's cardboard has a composition of up to 85% recycled fibres. On the other hand, there are uncoated recycled cardboard options (brown on both sides) that do not contain optical brighteners and give the packaging a more sustainable image. 
• Certifications: FSC and PEFC Chain of Custody. Both certifications guarantee the use of virgin fibres from sustainable forest sources.
• Raw materials: There are currently several alternatives of water-based inks, varnishes and barriers that are an excellent option to replace plastic laminates.
• Manufacturing process: Working together with packaging suppliers to develop the structural design of the packaging in a way that is optimised to the manufacturing process, shortening production times and use of resources.
• What happens if the packagingis not recycled and ends up being discarded on public roads? At the end of their life cycle, cardboard, cardboard and paper are biodegradable materials and in their degradation process they contribute organic compounds to the soil. They are easy to recycle and if they end up in the environment they degrade rapidly under ambient conditions.

The key to development lies in achieving a balance between packaging that is sustainable in its composition, functional throughout the chain and attractive. Develop packaging as a communication element, which sends an eco-friendly message to the consumer from its appearance and invites responsible consumption.