Corrugated Packaging for the Environment

Four reasons why Corrugated Packaging is an Environmentally Friendly Solution for your packaging

When considering options for your packaging and transit solutions, you might find yourself wondering about the environmental benefits of corrugated boxes. Corrugated boxes are sustainable, their recyclability and low density reduce its carbon footprint. Here are four reasons why corrugated packaging is an excellent option if you are looking for an environmentally friendly solution to your packaging.

1. Sustainability

Corrugated boxes are made from sustainably grown and harvested trees such as pine, and also often contain a high percentage of recycled material. The fibres in corrugated boxes can be recycled up to ten times to create new boxes. According to a 2017 study by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on sustainable materials, corrugated packaging has the highest percentage recovery of material compared with all other packaging materials.

2. Recycling

Corrugated cardboard is easily recyclable. In fact, most corrugated boxes consist of up to 50% recycled content. With people becoming more environmentally aware, corrugated cardboard is recycled more than any other packaging material. According to the EPA, over 96% of used corrugated packaging is recovered and recycled into new boxes or other paper products.  

3. Shipping costs

Corrugated boxes are extremely lightweight and can reduce shipping costs and lower their carbon footprint. Corrugated boards come in a variety of styles of different densities and corresponding strengths. By having your product designers working with your packaging supplier you can ensure you get the lightest corrugated box that provides sufficient protection for your product. Additionally, corrugated boxes can be stored flat prior to use, significantly reducing their footprint in your facility. 

4. Branding and labelling

Corrugated boxes have printable sides which are blank canvases for logos and other branding. On these panels, you can create whatever branding images you choose to help you differentiate your packages from others and reinforce your brand identity. And don’t forget to include the symbols of your region’s recycling programme to remind clients that your packaging can be recycled.

The benefits of corrugated packaging and its low environmental footprint has made it ubiquitous in shipping and e-commerce. It’s production using sustainable materials, lightweight, strength, and recyclability makes it a clear winner when it comes to choosing an environmentally friendly packaging option.

NPP is the packaging supplier of choice for many leading brands in Ireland. Founded in 1984 we have a long history of delivering innovative solutions, quality products, and unrivalled service and will work in close collaboration with customers to provide quality packaging products and solutions for your needs.