How Do Various Packaging Materials Affect the Environment?

Around the world, governments, businesses and consumers are reassessing the way packaging is produced, used and disposed of - and for good reason. The materials we choose affect everything from greenhouse gas emissions to plastic pollution, waste volumes and even human health.

In this article, we’ll explore the environmental impacts of the most commonly used packaging materials - including plastic, paper and biodegradable packaging. We'll also look at how businesses can make more sustainable choices without sacrificing performance or profitability.

Plastic Packaging

Plastic packaging is lightweight, cheap to produce and highly versatile. But its environmental cost is substantial. The plastic production process depends heavily on burning fossil fuels like crude oil and natural gas, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Most plastic isn’t recycled - tons of plastic end up sent to landfills, incinerated or as marine litter and plastic pollution in natural environments.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United Nations Environment Programme have linked rising plastic waste generation to worsening waste management systems and growing health concerns. Items like plastic bottles, plastic wrap, plastic cutlery, plastic straws and plastic grocery bags take centuries to degrade - if at all - and contribute to toxic pollutants in air, water and soil. Microplastics have also been found in the food chain, raising serious questions about the long-term impact on human health.

Glass Packaging

Glass manufacturing involves heating sand and other materials to extremely high temperatures, which uses large amounts of energy - typically from fossil fuels. As a result, the carbon footprint of glass is high, particularly during the manufacturing process.

However, once created, glass is durable, non-toxic and infinitely recyclable. It can be reused many times without losing quality, making it a great example of a reusable packaging material - especially when part of a closed-loop return system. But because of its weight and fragility, it also increases transport emissions and packaging requirements.

Metal And Foil

Aluminium and other metals used in disposable packaging (such as foil trays or drink cans) are typically recyclable and can have a long useful life. However, mining the raw materials, refining and production are all energy-intensive processes that contribute heavily to air pollution and global warming unless carefully controlled.

When recycled efficiently, aluminium requires just 5% of the energy needed to produce it from raw materials - making it a highly viable option for sustainable packaging in the right applications.

How Does Biodegradable Packaging Compare?

Biodegradable packaging plays a major role in reducing the environmental footprint of everyday packaging. Solutions made from paperboard, corrugated card and other fibre-based materials are among the most widely used across the UK - and with good reason. These materials come from renewable resources, are fully recyclable and decompose naturally in the environment without leaving behind harmful residues.

When made from recycled paper or card, their environmental benefits go even further. They help keep packaging out of landfill, reduce reliance on plastic packaging and cut back on emissions from burning fossil fuels. With a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and low-carbon supply chains, paper-based packaging is already helping businesses shrink their footprint in a way that’s both effective and achievable.

As a core material across food packaging, e-commerce and retail sectors, biodegradable board-based packaging strikes a strong balance between practicality, performance and environmental responsibility. It’s easy to source, easy to use and offers real benefits across every stage of the packaging lifecycle - from manufacturing to disposal.

What Should Your Business Do Next?

Understanding how various packaging materials affect the environment is the first step. The next is applying that to your own packaging strategy. Every material has trade-offs, and the environmental footprint of your packaging depends on everything from material choice and manufacturing process, to how the product is transported, displayed and disposed of.

By using recyclable materials, reducing packaging volume and switching to sustainable packaging solutions, your business can move towards more sustainable practices and demonstrate commitment to reducing its impact on the natural environment.

Sustainable Packaging Solutions From ASC Direct

At ASC Direct, we help businesses design packaging that works - for the product, the customer and the planet. Our cardboard boxes are made from 100% renewable materials, are fully recyclable and manufactured here in the UK to reduce transportation emissions throughout the supply chain.

With our Box Builder tool, you can customise packaging dimensions to avoid unnecessary waste, reduce bulk and fit your product exactly. That means less filler, lower shipping costs and fewer resources consumed from start to finish.

We offer low minimum orders starting from just 25 units, discounts on higher volumes, and fast dispatch in under three working days - helping you make the switch to sustainable.

Get in touch by calling 0800 0731 126 or filling out our online contact form, and we will help you find the perfect bespoke packaging solutions for your business.

James Palfrey-Smith is the Commercial Manager at ASC Direct with extensive experience in both operations and sales. James is passionate about solving packaging problems, delivering fast customer support, and building lasting relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. A fan of real ale and business podcasts, he continuously seeks personal and professional growth.

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