Choosing biodegradable packaging for your brand has never been easier. Here's our guide to 9 types of packaging that can replace plastic.
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The vast majority of packaging materials have long been made from plastics, and this reliance on synthetic polymers has led to serious ecological problems.
Plastics are major pollutants, and it can take up to years for plastic to biodegrade. This adverse environmental impact and increasing awareness about the importance of sustainable packaging are pushing brands and customers to adopt biodegradable packaging materials.
Research by McKinsey shows that 55% of consumers are concerned about the environmental impacts of packaging, and 70% of buyers would pay more for sustainable packaging.
Adopting biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials shows your customers that your business is environmentally responsible. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of biodegradable packaging and how to select the right packaging solutions for your business.
Let's get started!
What is biodegradable packaging?
Biodegradable packaging is made of materials that can decompose easily after disposal under the action of microorganisms. This ability to decompose rapidly helps to control the build-up of waste in landfills and contributes to a safer and healthier environment.
However, being labeled as "biodegradable" does not automatically make a packaging material sustainable. For a biodegradable polymer to qualify as sustainable packaging, it must break down and decompose within a short period &#; typically 12 months or less.
Does biodegradable mean compostable?
The short answer? No.
Biodegradation lets nature take charge of the process of breaking down packaging materials in landfills into their components. Compostable materials, on the other hand, decompose in composting environments where factors like humidity, temperature, oxygen, and bacteria are carefully controlled.
This means that all compostable packaging materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable packaging materials may be compostable.
Why should you consider using sustainable packaging?
@creamforever
Customers are increasingly concerned about sustainability, and research by GreenPrint shows that 75% of millennials are likely to pay a premium for sustainable products. This indicates that customers will be more likely to buy from your business when your packaging and recycling policies reflect their values.
That said, the benefits of biodegradable, sustainable packaging go beyond securing a positive brand image for your company. Below are some of the many benefits of sustainable packaging:
- Zero toxins and allergens. Chemicals like phthalates (common in plastic packaging) can cause health problems like asthma and cancer. Biodegradable packaging is not only good for the environment, it is also completely free of toxic materials.
- Cost savings. Most biodegradable packaging materials are reusable and can be recycled. Investing in sustainable packaging will help you cut costs and free up resources that can be allocated elsewhere.
- Efficient disposal. Sustainable packaging can be labeled as biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable. Customers can easily differentiate between them when discarding these materials, which makes the waste disposal process easier.
Types of biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging materials
Below is a list of the most popular biodegradable packaging materials currently available in the market. You may choose from any of these depending on your product packaging needs:
1. Biodegradable packing peanuts
Packing peanuts (styrofoam) serve as loose-fill packaging for fragile items to provide cushioning against shock and prevent items from moving. However, most packing peanuts are made from polystyrene which is not biodegradable and very difficult to recycle.
Biodegradable packing peanuts serve as an eco-friendly alternative. They work the same way as styrofoam but are made of natural materials like starch and wheat which makes them easily decomposable. Biodegradable packing peanuts are also lighter and less expensive than styrofoam.
2. Corrugated bubble wrap
Just like air peanuts, bubble wrap packaging also protects fragile items during shipping. It is, however, made of plastic which isn't eco-friendly. Fortunately, there are sustainable alternatives.
Made from upcycled corrugated cardboard, corrugated bubble wrap provides the same cushioning effect as traditional bubble wrap. It's environment-friendly since it's made from 100% recycled cardboard paper, which is biodegradable.
3. Recycled cardboard
@madebyahun
Cardboard boxes are used to ship a vast majority of products. Their durability, affordability, and reusability make them one of the most preferred materials for packaging products.
However, while cardboard and paper are organic materials, they can have a negative impact on the environment if they are sourced unsustainably. To ensure that your cardboard packaging is eco-friendly, use recycled paper or cardboard only. Alternatively, you can use cardboard materials made with pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests.
noissue's Kraft Boxes are made from 100% Recycled Kraft cardboard Material.
4. Bio-plastics
Plastic packaging is useful for shipping items that require sturdy packaging and can support heavy loads. The good thing is that you can still boost your eco-credentials even when plastic packaging is essential for shipping an item.
Bio-plastics are 100% eco-friendly and biodegradable. They are made from parts of plants like sugarcane, cassava, and corn. Biodegradable plastic is commonly used in food packaging and can replace any type of regular plastic packaging material you currently use.
noissue's Compostable Mailers are made from a combination of PLA (plant materials such as field corn and wheat straw) and PBAT, a bio-based polymer. This means they break down in six months (180 days) at home and 90 days in a commercial compost setting.
5. Inflatable air pillows made from biodegradable materials
Air pillows can be used as a cheaper packaging alternative to styrofoam or bubble wrap. They provide the same cushioning protection for shipped items.
Air pillows are better for the environment because they are simply small bags filled with air. This reduces the amount of plastic required when producing the packaging.
Make sure you only purchase air pillows that are biodegradable and can be reused.
6. Cornstarch packaging
Cornstarch packaging is a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging made from petroleum-based products.
Cornstarch packaging is made with materials derived from the maize plant, and is completely biodegradable. The primary disadvantage of this packaging material is that it competes with humans and animals who use corn as food.
7. Mushroom packaging
Mushroom packaging is made using agricultural waste that is fused together using mushroom roots (mycelium) as the combining material. It is environment-friendly and biodegradable.
Mushroom packaging may be a better packaging option than cornstarch packaging because it only uses agricultural waste which is not food for humans or animals.
8. Organic fabrics
Organic fabrics can serve as an eco-friendly alternative to the ubiquitous plastic bags that have become a staple of product packaging.
Organic fabrics are made from organic materials like hemp, palm leaves, recycled cotton, pineapple leaves, banana, tapioca, and many more. These raw materials are all abundant and packaging made with such materials decomposes rapidly &#; usually within 100 days.
9. Seaweed packaging
Seaweed packaging is made from a material called agar, which can be found in many types of seaweeds and algae. Agar is a gelatinous substance that is already used in the food industry as a thickening agent.
Research has now extended its use to product packaging. Seaweed packaging is a particularly attractive and eco-friendly packaging option because seaweed is an abundant sustainable raw material.
What to look for when choosing biodegradable packaging
@huni.and.bea
There are several providers out there who can supply sustainable packaging options for your small business. However, you must carefully evaluate them before adopting their solutions. Below are the factors you should consider when choosing a sustainable packaging supplier for your business:
- Branded and beautiful packaging. Branding is important, and eco-friendly does not mean your packaging needs to be bland. Select a supplier that can provide you with branded mailers, tissue paper, cardboards, stickers, and tape.
- Paper over plastic. Paper is always better because it is naturally biodegradable and decomposes faster. Go for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)-certified paper when making your choice. The certification indicates that the pulp for the paper was sourced in an environment-friendly manner.
- Non-toxic dyes. Packaging is usually dyed using chemicals that can be harmful to the person handling the material and to the environment. Look for packaging that is dyed using natural, non-toxic dyes instead of petroleum-based ink.
If you want to adopt sustainable, biodegradable packaging for your business, look no further than noissue. Our packaging solutions are 100% compostable and biodegradable. You can create your own branded packaging by uploading your logo and design on our website, or an illustration template. We will print and ship your packing materials anywhere in the world within three weeks.
Wrapping it up
With increasing awareness of the environmental impacts of plastic, many cities around the world have started to ban materials derived from fossil fuels. Eco-friendly and sustainable materials are the need of the hour, and biodegradable packaging is exactly what your business needs to stay ahead of the competition.
Follow the tips mentioned above to make the switch today and take your business to greater heights.
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In recent years, humanity has faced many environmental issues, particularly household waste. As a result, environmentally friendly products have emerged to partially address this problem. Today, let&#;s explore biodegradable bags with Kamereo in the following article!
For more Biodegradable Carryout Bags Supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Biodegradable bags as an environmental solution to replace plastic bags
What are biodegradable bags?
Biodegradable bags are items made from materials that can completely decompose in the natural environment by microorganisms. Therefore, these products do not cause environmental pollution like regular plastic bags.
Currently, there are two types of biodegradable bags available on the market:
- Fully biodegradable bags: Made from 100% natural materials (starch, cassava flour, corn flour, coconut fiber, bagasse, etc.), these bags can completely decompose into CO2, H2O, and microbial biomass under suitable environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, microorganisms, etc.).
- Conventional biodegradable bags: Made from traditional plastic combined with biodegradable additives. These bags can break down into smaller fragments in the environment. However, the decomposition rate is slower compared to fully biodegradable bags and may still cause environmental pollution if not handled properly.
Conventional biodegradable bags are combined with additives
Main materials of biodegradable bags
Depending on the purpose of use, manufacturers will choose appropriate materials to produce biodegradable bags. If biodegradable food bags are needed, high durability and good water resistance are essential. Meanwhile, cheaper materials can be used for garbage bags.
Natural origin materials
Starch is the most common material for producing bio-bags. This component can completely decompose into CO2 and H2O in the natural environment. Starch is usually extracted from crops such as:
- Cassava flour: A good material for producing bio-bags due to its high biodegradability and low cost.
- Corn flour: Has a similar structure to starch and can completely decompose in the natural environment.
- Coconut fiber: A material with high durability and good water resistance. Coconut fiber can be used to produce high-strength bio-bags suitable for applications requiring high load capacity.
- Bagasse: A byproduct of the sugar industry. Bagasse can be used to produce high-durability bio-bags with good biodegradability.
Biodegradable bags made from coconut fiber are favored for their durability and high strength
Synthetic materials
Besides natural materials, bio-bags are also made from synthetic materials. These bags are produced from organic compounds derived from petroleum but can completely decompose in the natural environment. Hence, degradable plastic bags differ from traditional plastic bags made from non-biodegradable polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).
Common synthetic materials used include:
- Polylactic Acid (PLA): A bioplastic made from corn or sugarcane starch.
- Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA): A bioplastic produced by microorganisms.
- Polybutylene Succinate (PBS): A bioplastic made from petroleum.
- Polycaprolactone (PCL): A bioplastic made from petroleum.
- Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT): A bioplastic made from petroleum.
Polylactic Acid (PLA) resin is used to make biodegradable bags
Advantages and disadvantages of bio-bags
We all know that biodegradable bags significantly impact addressing environmental issues. However, these products also have some disadvantages that can affect their market acceptance.
Advantages
- Environmentally friendly: Bio-bags can completely decompose or break down into small fragments after a short period.
- Health safety: These products do not contain harmful chemicals, ensuring safety when used for food storage.
- Reusable: Some biodegradable bags are durable enough to be reused multiple times.
Disadvantages
- High cost: Biodegradable bags are more expensive than regular plastic bags due to the special raw materials and production process.
- External dependency: The decomposition rate depends on environmental conditions. Some biodegradable bags require composting or special conditions to fully decompose.
Bio-bags also have certain advantages and disadvantages
Tips for choosing suitable biodegradable bags
Currently, there are many types of biodegradable bags made from various materials with diverse prices and qualities available on the market. Choosing the right type for your needs and ensuring quality can be confusing. Here are some useful tips to help you choose the right biodegradable bags:
Identify your usage needs
You need to answer the question, &#;What do you need biodegradable bags for?&#; Is it for storing food, garbage, or other purposes? This helps you determine your usage needs and purchase suitable products.
Once you know your usage needs, you can easily choose the right size and thickness. For example, food bags need to be thicker than garbage bags. Also, if you need to carry heavy items, choose bags with high durability and good load capacity.
You need to determine your usage needs to choose the right product
Use your senses
You can easily distinguish biodegradable bags using your senses:
- Touch: Biodegradable bags usually have a smooth, spongy surface, a thin film, and less vibrant colors.
- Smell: Most biodegradable bags contain starch. Therefore, you will notice a characteristic smell of this component when you sniff closely.
- Burn: Fully biodegradable bags burn easily without a strange smell, while others may shrivel and emit a burnt odor. This method is only applicable if you have already bought the product without thoroughly checking the previous two methods.
Biodegradable bags have a smooth surface and limited color options
Check the material
To avoid buying products falsely labeled as biodegradable bags at high prices, carefully read the ingredient list before purchasing:
- Should buy: Prioritize bags made from natural materials (starch, cassava flour, corn flour, etc.) or bioplastics that can completely decompose (PLA, PBS, PBAT, etc.).
- Avoid: Bags that only state &#;biodegradable&#; without clear origin, materials, or contain PE, PP plastics.
You should prioritize natural components or fully biodegradable resin
Check for certifications on the packaging
Finally, you can identify biodegradable bags by checking if the packaging has one of the following certifications:
- TUV OK compost INDUSTRIAL: Products can biodegrade under industrial composting conditions.
- TUV OK compost HOME: Products can biodegrade under home composting conditions.
- Biodegradable Products Institute Compostable (BPI): Products can safely biodegrade under industrial composting conditions.
- DIN CERTCO compostable: Products can biodegrade under industrial conditions.
- TUV OK biodegradable SOIL: Products can biodegrade when buried in soil.
- TUV OK biodegradable WATER: Products can biodegrade in water.
Some symbols of biodegradable certification
Kamereo &#; A reliable place to buy biodegradable bags
If you are looking for a reputable place to buy bio-bags, consider Kamereo. We specialize in supplying materials for over restaurants, hotels, convenience stores, etc., in Ho Chi Minh City and Binh Duong.
In addition to branded biodegradable bags like EU Food, SSGLOVE, etc., Kamereo also produces many products under our own brand, offering diverse choices based on your needs.
Especially, customers who purchase with invoices over 400,000 VND receive free delivery. Monthly invoices over 20,000,000 VND qualify for a 1% cashback. Contact Kamereo via hotline 46 37 27 for consultation and promotion details!
Read more: A brief introduction to the Kamereo brand
Kamereo is a quality supplier of biodegradable bags
Conclusion
The above are basic information about biodegradable bags currently used on the market. These products offer an effective solution to address some environmental issues, especially plastic waste. Follow the Hot Products section for more useful information!
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If you want to learn more, please visit our website Biodegradable Freshness Bags Supplier.
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