Discover how each stage impacts sustainability and the environment.
If you’re a brand looking to up your sustainability game, you’ve probably already considered recyclable packaging. After all, it’s one of the simplest ways to show your customers you care about the planet. But here’s the thing: not all recyclable packaging is created equal. From the type of materials you choose to how those materials are disposed of, there’s a lot more to consider than you might think.
To help clear things up, we’re going to break down the full life cycle of recyclable packaging, from its origin story to its (hopefully) happy ending. Whether you’re deciding on your brand’s next eco-friendly packaging design or just want to better understand the impact of the packaging choices you make, we’ve got you covered!
About Recyclable Packaging
Before recyclable packaging ever hits the shelf, it starts with the raw materials used to make it. Most commonly, recyclable packaging is made from paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and certain types of plastics. What sets these materials apart is their ability to be processed and turned into something new once their initial use is complete.
- Paper & Cardboard: Sourced from trees, paper and cardboard recyclable packaging material is typically the go-to for brands focused on sustainability. Recycled paper is often used to create new paper products, and the process can be repeated up to seven times before the fibers become too weak to be reused.
- Glass: Made from sand, limestone, and soda ash, glass can be recycled endlessly without losing quality. That means a single glass bottle could theoretically become another glass bottle over and over again, creating a true circular economy.
- Metals (like aluminum and tin): These are among the easiest materials to recycle, and they can be remelted and reshaped indefinitely. Aluminum, in particular, requires 95% less energy to recycle than it does to produce new.
- Plastics: Here’s where things get tricky. Not all plastics are recyclable, and even those that do can come with their own caveats. Look for plastics labeled with numbers 1 and 2 (like PET and HDPE), which are the most commonly recycled. Avoid numbers 3 through 7 if you’re serious about sustainability.
How Recyclable Packaging and Eco Packaging Differ
recyclable packaging and eco packaging differ primarily in their scope and impact. While recyclable packaging focuses on whether a material can be collected, processed, and turned into new products, eco packaging takes a more holistic approach by considering the entire environmental footprint—from sourcing and production to usage and disposal. Eco packaging might include biodegradable, compostable, or reusable materials that are not necessarily recyclable but still reduce overall waste and resource consumption. In short, all recyclable packaging can be considered eco-friendly, but not all eco packaging has to be recyclable.
The Production Process: Turning Raw Materials into Packaging
Once the raw materials are sourced, they’re processed and turned into the packaging products we’re familiar with. This is where decisions about the structure, functionality, and even the recyclability of the packaging come into play. For example, a cardboard box might be treated with chemicals to increase its durability, but that same treatment can make it harder to recycle down the line.
The Consumer Experience: Packaging Use and Disposal
Now we’re at the point where consumers interact with the recyclable packaging bags or boxes. After serving its purpose—whether that’s protecting a product during shipping or holding your favorite snack—it’s time for the packaging to be disposed of. This is where things can go awry.
While consumers do play a critical role in ensuring packaging is recycled correctly, they don’t always know what to do. Maybe they are not sure if their takeout container is recyclable, or they don’t bother to rinse out that yogurt cup. These seemingly small actions can cause big problems. In fact, according to Recology.com, contaminated recycling (anything with food waste or non-recyclable materials mixed in) can render entire batches of recyclables useless. When done correctly, recycling can help the environment as well as cost savings.
That’s why some companies create sustainable packaging products their consumers can continue to use again and again. From eco-friendly cosmetic packaging to reusable bags and boxes, this is a great move not only for eco-friendly product packaging as a whole but it’s also a way for companies to keep their branding and logo top of mind.
3 Ways How Brands Can Help
Here are three simple yet impactful ways brands can empower their customers to recycle responsibly and make a positive environmental impact:
1. Clear labeling: Make it easy for your customers to understand how to recycle your packaging by using symbols and instructions.
2. Educate your audience: Consider adding a small note on your website or packaging that explains what can and can’t be recycled. It’s a small effort that can go a long way.
3. Encourage responsible disposal: Offer incentives or programs for customers for returning eco friendly packaging boxes and used packaging. Brands can also partner with recycling initiatives.
The Recycling Process: Giving Packaging a Second Life
Once the packaging makes it to the recycling facility, it’s sorted, cleaned, and processed into raw materials once again. But not every piece of recyclable packaging gets to go on this journey. Even if the material itself is recyclable, contamination or improper sorting can mean it’s diverted to the landfill instead.
Here’s what happens to the most common types of recyclable packaging once they’re in the system:
- Paper & Cardboard: The materials are shredded, mixed with water to create a slurry, and then cleaned to remove any ink or glue. The clean pulp is then spread into sheets and dried, creating new paper products.
- Glass: Glass is sorted by color, crushed, and melted down to form new containers. Because it can be recycled endlessly, using recycled glass significantly reduces the energy needed for production.
- Metal: Metals are shredded, melted, and purified. They can then be used to create everything from new cans to car parts.
- Plastics: After sorting, plastics are washed, melted, and formed into pellets that can be used to make new products. However, this process can only happen a limited number of times before the quality degrades.
The End of the Line: What Happens When Packaging Can’t Be Recycled?
Despite best efforts, not all recyclable packaging and eco packaging gets a second chance. Sometimes it’s due to contamination, and other times it’s because the packaging material has reached the end of its usability. Once this happens, the packaging ends up in landfills or incinerated. And, in some cases the product is down-cycled, meaning it is turned into a lower-quality product that can no longer be recycled.
Moving Forward: Making Smarter Choices for a Sustainable Future
Understanding the life cycle of recyclable packaging is just the beginning. To truly make an impact, brands can go a step further by choosing materials that are easier to recycle, designing packaging that minimizes waste, and educating consumers on responsible disposal. Here are some tips for making more sustainable packaging choices:
- Choose single-material packaging: Whenever possible, opt for packaging made from a single material to simplify the recycling process.
- Consider compostable options: For items that are difficult to recycle, such as food containers, compostable packaging can be a good alternative.
- Explore reusable packaging: Think beyond single-use packaging and explore reusable options, like glass jars or metal tins, that customers can repurpose at home.
- Partner with recycling programs: If you offer packaging that isn’t easily recycled curbside, consider partnering with a program that specializes in recycling niche materials.
Need more eco-friendly packaging ideas? Talk to your Gemnote rep today!
Gemnote Supports Your Efforts for Better Packaging
From customizable reusable products to sustainable packaging solutions, Gemnote is here to guide you through every step of your packaging journey! With a belief that less is more, they focus on creating eco-friendly product packaging that not only looks great but also reflects your commitment to sustainability.
Looking for custom packaging that aligns with your brand’s values and stands out? Gemnote has you covered! Whether it’s choosing eco-friendly packaging boxes for onboarding kits or product mailings to compostable mailers that reduce waste and environmental impact, they will help you explore a variety of options. With the end goal to deliver packaging that’s both beautiful and functional—without compromising on quality or sustainability—you can rest assured it is designed to make your brand proud.
For brands interested in seasonal packaging, Gemnote can help you get creative with custom holiday packaging ideas with recyclable packaging materials. Because the most memorable gifts are just as special on the outside as the products inside. And since every product is customized to your specifications, you can create a cohesive look that resonates with your customers while promoting your brand and company’s dedication to the environment.
Not sure where to start? Our experts can work with you to design packaging that reflects your brand’s personality while meeting your sustainability goals. Whether you’re looking to switch from traditional plastic to more eco-conscious options, or want to refresh your packaging design to make a stronger impact, they are ready to help you make informed choices with packaging ideas that are good for both your business and the planet.
By choosing Gemnote, you’re not just investing in great packaging—you’re supporting a greener future. So, if you’re ready to elevate your packaging and create an unforgettable unboxing experience that aligns with your values, reach out to us today. Let’s work together to create packaging that makes a statement and leaves a lasting, positive impression.
