Eco-Friendly Products: 7 Benefits of Going Green in 2023
In the food packaging industry, there has been growing interest in eco-friendly packaging options. But why eco-friendly? How does going green in 2023 benefit my company? We will explore the factors that make a product eco-friendly while considering multiple factors in this blog post.
We will also delve into eco-friendly products and the different types of eco-friendly food packaging products available in the market, including biodegradable and sustainable paper products. Additionally, we will explore the benefits of substituting single-use items with eco-friendly alternatives and where to buy these products. And while eco-friendly products may have their challenges, we hope this post can show you the benefits of going green in 2023.
Why Do You Believe Products are Eco-Friendly?
Determining whether a product is genuinely eco-friendly can be challenging in the food packaging industry. Most people believe a product is eco-friendly when designed to have a minimal environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. Some common factors that people think make an eco-friendly product include:
- Sustainable materials: Materials that are recycled, sustainably sourced, or plant-based.
- Energy efficiency: Product design to minimize energy consumption.
- Biodegradability: The ability of a product to biodegrade or compost naturally over time.
- Recyclability: The ability to be recycled or reused.
- Environmental certifications: Products that are certified by independent organizations.
Ultimately, the perception of eco-friendliness is subjective and can depend on various factors. Determining whether a product is genuinely eco-friendly requires understanding precisely what an eco-friendly product is. Luckily, we cover what eco-friendly products are in the next section.
What Exactly are Eco-Friendly Products?
Products that minimize their environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from production to disposal, are eco-friendly. Biodegradable and sustainable paper products within the food packaging industry are some eco-friendly products.
Biodegradable products break down naturally over time through the action of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or algae. Renewable resources such as plant-based plastics, natural fibers, and paper are all materials that organizations can use to make biodegradable clamshell products. Using sustainable paper products, like paper cups, bowls, or napkins, can further reduce the need for new resources because you can often make them from recycled materials. There are also innovative ways to use waste materials, such as creating mushroom-based or edible packaging. It’s important to remember that not all eco-friendly products are the same, and some may require specific disposal methods or take longer to break down.
Numerous eco-friendly certifications are on the market today and can help identify eco-friendly products. Knowing the eco-friendly certificates is helpful if you need clarification on what eco-friendly products are. Some of the eco-friendly certifications include BPI, TUV, and FSC. A BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) label lets you know that a product, including the materials and the manufacturing process, follows ASTM’s (American Society for Testing and Materials) suggested standards. TUV (Technischer Überwachungsverein, which in German means Technical Inspection Association) is another certification label. TUV labels specify if the plastic used in manufacturing needs an industrial compost facility to break down. Lastly, the Forest Stewardship Council label (FSC) reassures consumers that manufacturers use responsible foresting practices in sourcing materials. FSC certification considers forest management, biological biodiversity, local economical impact, and the materials’ sustained viability.
Overall, eco-friendly products aim to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. When making decisions about food packaging supplies, it is essential to consider the various options available and their effects on the environment, industry, and communities.
7 Benefits of Going Green in 2023
Going green in 2023 holds numerous benefits for your business. Single-use items, such as plastic straws, utensils, and bags, significantly contribute to waste and pollution. Interest in substituting these items with eco-friendly alternatives in the food packaging industry has grown. But what are the benefits of making this switch?
Here are seven benefits of substituting single-use items with eco-friendly alternatives to help you go green in 2023:
- Reducing waste: By opting for eco-friendly alternatives, we can reduce the amount of waste in landfills or oceans. Reducing waste helps to minimize the harmful effects of pollution on the environment and wildlife. We can achieve more favorable outcomes, such as decreased greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices in the food packaging industry.
- Conserving natural resources: Many eco-friendly products, such as plant-based plastics or sustainable paper products, are made from renewable resources. These materials can reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, such as petroleum-based plastics, and promote more sustainable practices. Many eco-friendly alternatives, such as reusable containers or energy-efficient appliances, are designed to minimize our carbon footprint by reducing our reliance on non-renewable resources and minimizing the energy and resources needed to produce and use them. By choosing eco-friendly alternatives and reducing our carbon footprint, we can help to mitigate the harmful effects of climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.
- Promoting sustainability: Eco-friendly products are designed to minimize their environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from production to disposal, promoting more sustainable practices. Traditional single-use items are often made from non-renewable resources and contribute to the growing waste and pollution problem. How to minimize their environmental impact throughout the product life cycle is taken into consideration when designing eco-friendly alternatives. These products are often biodegradable or compostable, which means they break down naturally over time versus contributing to the waste in landfills or oceans.
- Saving money: Some eco-friendly products, such as reusable containers, can save consumers money in the long run by reducing the need to repurchase single-use items constantly. Many eco-friendly alternatives, such as reusable containers, cloth napkins, or silicone food bags, can be used multiple times, reducing the need to repurchase single-use items constantly. By choosing eco-friendly alternatives designed to be durable and long-lasting, consumers can save money in the long run while reducing their environmental impact. It’s a win-win situation!
- Creating jobs: Producing eco-friendly products can create manufacturing, design, and distribution jobs. These jobs provide opportunities for workers and stimulate local economies. Eco-friendly companies prioritizing fair labor practices promote ethical practices in various industries.
- Improving brand image: Choosing eco-friendly packaging options can improve a business’s brand image and reputation. Consumers are likely to trust and support enterprises prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices. By committing to these values, companies can improve their brand image and reputation, attracting and retaining customers who share them. Additionally, choosing eco-friendly packaging options can help companies to comply with regulations and requirements related to waste reduction and sustainability.
- Meeting customer demand: By offering eco-friendly products and packaging options, businesses can meet the demand of environmentally-conscious consumers. Companies can also demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and attract and retain customers who prioritize these values. Choosing eco-friendly products and meeting consumers’ demands can increase customer loyalty and repeat business.
Products on the Market and Where to Buy Them!
When looking to buy eco-friendly food packaging supplies, there are a variety of options available. Some popular eco-friendly products include biodegradable products and recyclable products. Many companies can find eco-friendly products in grocery stores or online retailers.
Eco-plaint offers a variety of eco-friendly products to meet your business’s budget and operational requirements. Fiber clamshells, plates, and catering supplies are biodegradable and available in multiple sizes. PLA straws and PLA cutlery sets, also biodegradable, are available in wrapped or unwrapped options. Can liners and t-shirt bags made of biofilms are another biodegradable option available on the market. Sustainable paper products such as bowls and cups are alternative compostable options if fiber and PLA differ from what you seek.
It is essential to consider the specific materials used in these products and their disposal method to ensure they are eco-friendly. If biodegradable products for composting are not an option for your business, recyclable products are also readily available. Cups, lids, clamshells, and bowls are also available in PET and PP materials. You might ask, “What if my company wants our logo on our products.” Eco-pliant also offers custom packaging for your sustainability needs.
One Step Towards Saving the Planet
The benefits of going green, especially in the food packaging industry, are numerous and far-reaching. We can reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and promote more sustainable practices by choosing eco-friendly packaging options.
When determining whether a product is genuinely eco-friendly, we must consider various factors, such as materials used, manufacturing processes, and disposal methods. Biodegradable products, sustainable paper products, and reusable containers are popular options.
Substituting single-use items with eco-friendly alternatives can have significant benefits for the environment, economy, and society as a whole. In addition to reducing waste and promoting sustainability, these alternatives can create jobs while saving money and improving brand image.
Various options are available when buying eco-friendly food packaging supplies, including catering pans, fiber, biofilm, and PET/PP products. Considering the cost and availability of these products and what your business needs is essential. We can promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact today by making thoughtful and informed choices.
