Explore Packaging Options for Startups to Build an Ethical Image

Starting a business is not as challenging as maintaining a cohesive and positive image. One way for you to boost your startup is to use sustainable packaging that not only aligns with your customers’ preferences but also helps you build a positive image. Your packaging choices have a direct impact on the environment. 

And using harmful plastic packaging may lead to a polluted environment and a poor brand image. This is why you must invest in cost-effective yet sustainable packaging solutions that align with your brand’s Go Green strategy. Read this blog to explore some effective and sustainable packaging options for your startup! 

Reusable Packaging

Opting for reusable packaging helps you encourage your customers to reduce waste in landfills. Likewise, reusable packaging can also be used for promoting product refilling campaigns for a greener environment. The following are some top reusable packaging options you must consider for your product-based startup:

Tin Packaging

One of the reliable and effective packaging solutions is tin packaging, as it is 100% reusable. It conveys a sense of reliability to your customers. Tin packaging is made from tinplate-coated steel, which is highly corrosion-resistant. You can pack different types of products in the tin containers to protect them from moisture, air, and chemical reaction. From food to cosmetics, every product can be packed in tin containers for aesthetic appeal, safety, and branding.

Glass Packaging

The second reusable packaging option you may consider for your products is glass packaging. If you have a food startup, glass packaging could be a game-changer for your business. You can also use glass jars, bottles, and containers for cosmetic, jewellery, and pharmaceutical items. Glass has non-reactive properties, helping you ensure your products’ longevity while encouraging customers to get a product refill for a sustainable environment.

Custom Rigid Boxes

No one can understate the value of custom rigid boxes as they are versatile, reusable, and luxurious. They are made from rigid stock, which is known for its tensile strength. Rigid boxes are ideal for packing high-ticket items and luxury gifts to improve their perceived value while helping you build an ethical image. Your customers can use them for years, reducing landfill waste.

Cotton Tote Bags

Replace plastic bags with eco-friendly and reusable tote bags. A study shows that40% of global plastic consumption comes from the packaging sector. Shopping tote bags can be made from various materials like jute, canvas, cotton, PU synthetic leather, and non-woven fibres. One of the most cost-effective options is cotton tote bags because they offer value for money. They are reusable, washable, and sustainable. 

Plant-Based Packaging

Another sustainable packaging solution that helps you build an ethical image is using plant-based packaging. As the name suggests, the source for making such packaging is a plant. The following are some best examples of plant-based packaging:

Mushroom Packaging Inserts

Replace the styrofoam inserts with mycelium inserts. Mycelium packaging is made from the root part mushroom and the herd of hemp. Different shapes and sizes of moulds are used to create packaging inserts made from the substrate of mushroom root and hemp hurd. These inserts are sustainable, durable, and customisable. They are often used to ship fragile items safely.

Starch-Based Plastic

Boost your startup by using an excellent alternative to plastic packaging. And the best source to create bioplastic that offers the same pros is conventional plastic packaging. The source of bioplastic is fermented plant starch from corn, bamboo, and sugarcane. You can build an eco-conscious brand image when using starch-based packaging solutions for your startup.

Sugarcane Packaging

When customising eco-friendly packaging, you must keep in mind that the sustainable packaging may also require wood or wood pulp, causing deforestation. So, if you are looking for packaging that does not cause deforestation, you must consider sugarcane packaging, which is made from the leftover part of the sugarcane, which is called bagasse. Once the sugarcane juice is extracted, bagasse is left behind, which could be used as a raw material for sustainable packaging instead of throwing it in the landfill.

Paper-Based Packaging

One of the cost-effective and eco-friendly packaging options for your startup is paper-based packaging, which is purely made from paper. Wood pulp is used to create the material for paper packaging. The following are some sustainable packaging options you must consider to boost your brand’s sustainability mission:

Custom Kraft Packaging

One of the top choices for retail, food, and gift packaging is kraft paper, which is made from wood pulp. Kraft packaging is versatile. This is why it can be used for wrapping products, making boxes, stickers, labels, and sleeves. The rustic appeal of custom kraft boxes entices your customers at first glance. Kraft boxes, bags, and wraps can be used for various products like gifts, food, and retail products. You can customise kraft paper in every shape and style.

Paper Stickers and Labels

Label your products with sustainable labels and stickers. You can save money and time using pocket-friendly custom labels and stickers while building an eco-conscious image. These labels and stickers can be made from kraft paper and cardstock. You must consider them to adorn your product packaging and attract eco-conscious customers.

Custom Cardboard Boxes

Whether you run an in-store or e-commerce business, shipping boxes is an ultimate need. And using sustainable shipping boxes helps you win customers' hearts. Use cardboard boxes as they are made from paper fibers and recycled materials. Multiple layers of cardstock and kraft flutes are joined together to form corrugated cardboard to create large shipping cartons and custom mailer boxes.

Final Thoughts!

You must make some sustainability goals first and then choose eco-friendly packaging to promote them. Boost your Go Green strategy by investing in paper-based, plant-based, and reusable packaging. You must get your sustainable packaging printed with plant-based inks using energy-efficient printing methods for building an ethical image in the competitive market.

Reach out to us at (02) 7228 8555 or sales@oxopackaging.com.au for your questions. We would love to address them!