By Ellie Gabel
With a growing awareness of the consequences of single-use packaging, people are looking for more sustainable alternatives. Zero-waste packaging ticks all the boxes — it supports environmental causes and promotes cost efficiency for businesses, and consumers are warming toward it. Yet, the logical transition seems slow and unenthusiastic.
Single-use packaging is still part of mainstream consumption, and many do not know about zero-waste methods. So, is zero-waste packaging here to stay, or is it just another buzzword in the realm of sustainable living?
What Is Zero-Waste Packaging?
Zero-waste packaging is when every element of a product’s packaging can be recycled or reused, significantly reducing waste. This would include packaging made from biodegradable materials, which do not contain toxic chemicals, do not contribute to single-use and have minimal environmental impact throughout their life cycle without jeopardizing the product’s quality.
An example would be when stores do not provide bags or containers for their products but encourage customers to bring their reusable bags. In the U.S., there are about 1,300 zero-waste stores or stores with zero-waste sections as of 2022.
Modern packaging methods ensure the contents stay safe and usable, but much of this packaging is wasted and found as litter. Zero-waste packaging was invented to combat this problem and provide a more sustainable life cycle.
Photo by Katy Anne on Unsplash
Why Does It Matter?
Beyond being a trend, zero-waste packaging has many benefits for a business, people and the environment. Here are some reasons why it would make a significant difference to the stakeholders.
Reduces Carbon Footprint
Businesses’ carbon footprints are becoming dire problems that require drastic action and awareness. Climate change used to be discussed in terms of consequences a hundred years from now, but in recent years, the expiry date seems to be fast approaching.
Three stages determine carbon footprint — manufacturing, transport and residual lives. In 2021, the manufacturing sector alone was accountable for 12% of U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which is anticipated to increase by 17% by 2050.
As packaging is one of the components that travels through all three stages, a brand can reduce its carbon footprint by introducing zero-waste packaging. For instance, using recycled paper can contribute to a 74% decrease in GHG emissions compared to using unrecycled.
Scales Down Plastic Consumption
In 2021, U.S. plastic waste generation per capita increased by 263% since 1980. Thirty-six percent of all plastic is from packaging, and about 85% goes to landfills. Ninety-eight percent of single-use plastic products are made from fossil fuels, estimated to increase to 19% of the global carbon budget by 2040.
Enterprises and consumers are responsible for lowering the amount of packaging waste that ends up in landfills, but they also hold the key to reducing plastic consumption. By opting for zero-waste packaging, they can create a more sustainable lifestyle and do their part for a greener Earth.
Sustainable for Businesses and Attracts Customers
Many would think zero-waste packaging is more expensive and would require more financial investment than the single-use alternative. However, studies have shown reusable food containers are cheaper for end-users, and corporations could see a return on investment (ROI) by the third or fourth year. As for secondary transport packaging, ROI could be achieved even faster — by the second or third year.
This proves that zero-waste packaging is financially and economically viable in the long term. In addition, the growing awareness among buyers and stricter laws against plastic pollution contribute to the increase in the cost of single-use plastic packaging, making recyclability more attractive.
Shoppers increasingly want zero-waste packaging. Seventy percent of people in a survey support a general ban on single-use plastics. Eighty-two percent of all consumers — with 90% being Gen Z — would willingly pay more for sustainable packaging, and 63% are less likely to choose unsustainable packaging. This opens up avenues for organizations looking to convert.
Is Zero-Waste Packaging Possible?
Scientists say that while zero-waste packaging dominance is possible, it has to be achieved strategically through zero-waste design, responsive consumption and zero-waste management. Research also focuses on eliminating plastic from packaging by reducing the number of plastic types used and standardizing the plastics used for specific products.
Plastic waste recycling is an ongoing crisis that undeniably challenges a circular economy. A solution to this problem would be zero-waste packaging. Companies should switch to sustainable packaging methods, and customers should seek alternatives to plastic packaging.
With increased awareness of climate change and carbon footprint, many businesses are joining the movement and converting to zero-waste packaging. People are increasingly realizing the throwaway culture plastic packaging promotes and the consequences of their actions on the environment and their health.
Current Examples of Zero-Waste Packaging
Some examples of eco-friendly packaging in use now include:
- Reusable bags: These bags are made of sustainable fabric, prompting people to reuse them repeatedly not only for shopping but for carrying any goods. Among those used are bags made from mushrooms, seaweed and bamboo. These are biodegradable and some also use agricultural waste as materials.
- Cardboard boxes: Cardboard boxes are useful because they can store more than bags. The corrugated layer between the sheets is also helpful for extra durability for heavier items.
- Compostable mailer bags: Traditional courier packaging uses plastic, but compostable alternatives are becoming more mainstream. These bags can break down via microbial activity and become compost.
- Biodegradable labels: These labels include labels made of eco-friendly materials like cotton and ones made from reprocessed materials.
- Polymer fusion labeling: While eco-friendly labeling may use materials like paper, the adhesive itself may not be biodegradable. Polymer fusion labeling addresses this by printing a specialized pigment directly onto the packaging. It’s sustainable because it does not leave behind toxic adhesives or peel off, reducing additional packaging waste.
The Future Is Now
Zero-waste packaging is an enticing modern development. Although it may have started as a trend and a buzzword, it could be a vital part of combating plastic consumption, pollution and climate change, creating a greener and more sustainable future for all.
About the Author
Ellie Gabel is the sciences editor at Revolutionized, where she specializes in astronomy, environmental science, and innovative technologies.