How to make packaging more sustainable

Best ways to build sustainability into your packaging design

The packaging industry is responsible for 36% OF ALL PLASTICS PRODUCED WORLDWIDE.

So it’s no surprise that packaging designers and the companies that use it have come under scrutiny.

Consumers are increasingly more eco-conscious, taking sustainability into account when deciding what to buy. And brands are switching to sustainable packaging to futureproof themselves and their supply chain against regulatory changes.

Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to make a difference, from simple material changes to improving how you communicate with customers.

By finding out how to make packaging more sustainable, you can reduce waste while also building a stronger brand reputation.

CONTACT BLAKE MADE today to explore how we can design bespoke sustainable packaging that helps your brand grow.

 

 

 

Use less material

Perfect-fit packaging

Most packaging is much bigger than it needs to be.

But by following BEST PRACTICES FOR ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING and designing containers to fit the precise dimensions of your product, you can eliminate unnecessary material.

As well as reducing costs, this helps you save space on retail shelves and in warehouses. So you can delay the need to invest in another site.

Perfect-fit packaging also keeps products from moving around during transit. This REDUCES DAMAGE AND RETURN RATES, further improving cost efficiency and ensuring a strong first impression.

At Blake Made, we design premium bespoke packaging based on thorough product analysis. That lets us meet your precise sizing requirements, minimising cost and waste.

 

Single-material design

Packaging that uses a mix of papers, plastics, and metals can be very difficult to recycle.

But with a single-material design that REDUCES PACKAGING WASTE WITHOUT COMPROMISING QUALITY, you support effective recycling.

Our paper-based, zero-plastic packaging is easy to process in existing recycling streams. This increases the likelihood of materials being recovered and reused, supporting industry-wide SUSTAINABILITY.

 

Minimalist style

Adding excessive coatings or inserts you don’t need leads to a lot of waste, especially when it comes to premium PRESENTATION PACKAGING.

Simpler designs require less material. And they take less energy to produce. So it’s a good idea to focus on functional designs that create the greatest possible visual impact and a strong UNBOXING EXPERIENCE using the fewest elements.

By relying on robust engineering principles and a proven 4-STEP APPROACH, we design beautiful packaging that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.

 

Use renewable or recycled materials

Recycled content

Manufacturing your packaging with post-consumer recycled paperboard reduces the demand for virgin materials. That means fewer trees need to be cut down and less energy is used to make your packaging.

Using recycled content gives discarded materials a second life, contributing to a circular economy.

 

Renewable materials

Bamboo, hemp, plant-based plastics, and other renewable materials are excellent alternatives to petrol-based plastics.

These materials come from sustainable sources. And they’re often biodegradable or compostable, which supports eco-friendly end-of-life disposal.

Always ensure these materials are harvested responsibly to ensure they have the lowest possible impact on the environment.

 

Refillable containers

Cleaning supplies, bodycare products, and food items are perfect for refillable packaging systems.

This can be tougher for smaller businesses to achieve, as you need to set up designated refilling stations or encourage bulk purchases. But if you have the reach and relationships to make refillable packaging possible, it can make a huge difference to your carbon footprint.

 

Easy separation

Designing packaging that customers can disassemble easily encourages consistent recycling.

Consider using snap-fit connections or perforated lines to make your packaging quick and simple to break down. And try to avoid using mixed materials, which could complicate the process.

Our in-house design team ensures each component of your bespoke premium packaging is labelled with the correct material type and recycling instructions. That way, you can make recycling even more efficient and reduce contamination between recycling streams.

 

 

Greener inks and adhesives

Water-based inks

By using water as a solvent rather than harmful chemicals, water-based inks are biodegradable and produce fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

That makes them less toxic and much easier to recycle, leading to a 15% LOWER CARBON FOOTPRINT.

Water-based inks offer exceptional print quality with paper-based packaging, like our plastic-free VITA™ range. And they help you comply with European and global solvent regulations.

 

Natural glues

Adhesives made from natural sources like starch or cellulose break down more easily in the environment. And they don’t interfere with the recycling process like traditional glues do.

But that doesn’t mean you need to worry about quality. Our glues are designed specifically for use with our paper-based packaging. This ensures high bond strength all the way from warehouses to customers’ homes.

 

Use less glue

What’s better than using RECYCLABLE GLUE ON OUR CORRUGATED BOXES? Using no glue at all!

Where possible, we can design bespoke premium packaging with interlocking designs, folding cartons, or other mechanical fastening methods. This further reduces your carbon footprint and makes recycling even easier.

 

Tell people about it

Clear labels

Clear, concise labels tell consumers whether your packaging is recyclable, compostable, or reusable.

Use standardised symbols and icons so people can understand disposal instructions easily. And give information about the specific materials used and how to prepare them for disposal.

 

QR codes

Adding a QR code to your packaging lets you link people to detailed sustainability information.

Make sure the page they land on includes environmental certifications as evidence, as well as your environmental goals.

This is also a great marketing strategy to get people onto your website without waiting for them to find you on Google or social media. So you can more easily guide them towards other great products they’ll love.

 

Make your packaging more sustainable with Blake Made

At Blake Made, we see packaging as more than just a container.

It’s an extension of your brand and a reflection of your commitment to sustainable packaging.

That is why we help you build a sustainable packaging supply chain that eliminates plastic waste and tackles overpackaging.

All our bespoke premium sustainable packaging is made from recycled and recyclable materials, with biodegradable and compostable options. Every element is responsibly sourced. And it’s all backed up by globally recognised certifications from organizations like the FSC® and PEFC™.

From concept to delivery, we help you build packaging that supports your net-zero goals and leaves a lasting impression.

CONTACT US now to start your journey to sustainable packaging design.