How to Choose Environmentally Friendly Packaging For Your Business

As businesses become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, packaging has emerged as a major area of focus. Environmentally friendly packaging isn’t just a feel-good choice; it’s quickly becoming an expectation from consumers and a compliance requirement in many industries. But with so many materials, certifications, and sustainability claims on the market, how do you know which packaging solution is truly right for your business?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what environmentally friendly packaging means, why it matters, and how to make smart, sustainable packaging decisions without compromising on quality or brand experience.

What is Environmentally Friendly Packaging?

Environmentally friendly packaging refers to materials and solutions designed to minimise environmental impact across their lifecycle, from production and use to disposal or recycling. 

However, not all ‘green’ packaging delivers the same level of sustainability. Understanding the terminology is key:

• Recyclable packaging can be collected, processed, and reused in new products. Think cardboard boxes and certain plastics.

• Compostable packaging breaks down into natural elements in a compost environment, leaving no toxic residue. These include both home compostable and commercially compostable products, each suited to different disposal methods.

• Biodegradable packaging degrades naturally over time, though it may still leave microplastics or require specific conditions.

• Reusable packaging serves multiple purposes, including use as returnable crates or fabric bags.

Manufacturers create eco-packaging from a range of materials like recycled paper, kraft paper, cornstarch bioplastics, mushroom fibre, or plant-based PLA. Each has its pros and cons depending on your product, logistics, and disposal infrastructure.

Why It Matters for Your Business

There’s a growing demand from consumers for sustainable practices. Shoppers are actively choosing brands that align with their environmental values, and packaging plays a significant role in that perception.

But it’s not just about reputation. Environmentally friendly packaging can contribute to long-term cost savings, improved efficiency, and even new revenue opportunities. Here’s how:

• Brand Trust: Packaging is often the first physical touchpoint with your customer. Eco-packaging reinforces trust and credibility, especially for values-driven audiences.

• Compliance: Regulations around packaging waste, recyclability, and labelling are tightening, especially in Australia under the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) sustainable packaging guidelines.

• Operational Savings: Lightweight or optimally sized eco packaging can reduce shipping costs and material waste.

By replacing traditional plastic packaging with eco-friendly options like compostable products or recycled paper alternatives, your business takes a proactive role in reducing landfill and marine pollution.

Evaluating Your Packaging Needs

The right environmentally friendly packaging depends on your unique operations. Start by asking:

1. What are you shipping or selling?
   Fragile items may need cushioning; perishable products may require breathable or insulated materials.

2. How will it travel?
   Will your package endure long-distance transit or temperature extremes? Will it face exposure to moisture?

3. Who is your customer?
   Are they likely to reuse packaging, compost it, or recycle it properly? Consider their lifestyle and location.

4. What do you want to say?
   Eco-packaging can double as a brand story, think printed messaging about your sustainability efforts or minimalist, plastic-free design cues.

Conduct a lifecycle assessment or partner with a packaging consultant to pinpoint and improve the sustainability of your current packaging.

How to Make the Right Choice

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to sustainable packaging. The key is finding a balance between environmental impact, functionality, aesthetics, and cost.

1. Look for Certified Materials

Prioritise packaging certified by reputable bodies, such as:

• FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) for responsibly sourced paper products.

• AS 5810 or AS 4736 for home compostable and commercially compostable packaging.

• Recyclability symbols under the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) system.

These certifications help ensure you're not falling for greenwashing, where packaging appears eco-friendly without real environmental merit.

2. Choose the Right Format

Smaller, lighter packaging reduces material use and shipping emissions. Boxes that double as retail displays or reseal for returns actively reduce waste even further.

3. Customise Without Compromising

Custom packaging can align with sustainability by using right-sized boxes, minimal printing, or water-based inks. The goal is to maintain brand appeal while reducing excess.

4. Partner with the Right Supplier

A trusted packaging partner can assess your entire packaging solution, from sourcing materials to managing inventory logistics. They’ll help ensure your choices align with your brand and support your sustainability goals.

Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

Switching to environmentally friendly packaging can raise valid concerns. Here’s how to address them:

• ‘It’s more expensive.’
  While upfront costs may be higher, eco-packaging often reduces long-term expenses through lower shipping fees, fewer returns (thanks to better quality), and improved customer retention.

• ‘It’s hard to source consistently.’
  A reliable packaging partner with established supplier networks can help you navigate seasonal demand and material availability.

• ‘It doesn’t suit my brand’s aesthetic.’
  Eco doesn’t have to mean bland. With modern printing techniques, custom die-cuts, and thoughtful textures, sustainable packaging can look premium and purposeful.

• ‘I don’t know what’s eco-friendly.’
  That’s where expert advice makes a difference. Working with a team that understands sustainability frameworks and industry best practices will save you time and guesswork.

Environmentally Friendly Packaging with Boxes 24

At Boxes 24, we specialise in helping Australian businesses transition to packaging that’s not only functional and beautiful, but sustainable too. Our range includes:

• Recycled and recyclable corrugated cardboard boxes

• Recyclable paper tape 

• Custom boxes with water-based inks

With fast turnaround times, flexible customisation, and a local team that understands your business goals, we make it easy to go green without sacrificing performance.

Ready to Pack Smarter and Greener?

Switching to environmentally friendly packaging isn’t just good for the planet. It’s a strategic move that sets your brand apart, builds trust, and keeps you ahead of changing regulations and customer expectations.

At Boxes 24, we’re here to make that switch seamless. Whether you're after recycled boxes or a custom eco solution, we’ve got the range, the know-how, and the turnaround to deliver.

Get in touch with our team today and let’s make your business’s greenest asset.