A Business Guide To Switching To Sustainable Packaging
The global sustainability movement certainly has changed how businesses and consumers all over the world, including those in Singapore, view the environmental impact of product packaging.
As businesses seek to meet changing consumers’ expectations, more are contributing to a sustainable future by prioritising sustainable packaging practices, such as partnering with reputable eco-friendly packaging companies offering sustainable solutions.
Switching to sustainable packaging helps businesses attract eco-conscious customers, conserve depleting global resources, and reduce environmental impact.
In this business guide, we will help you understand why your business should consider making that sustainable switch, some common challenges you might face in that process, and ways you can circumvent them effectively.
What is sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging utilises environmentally friendly materials and practices throughout the packaging lifecycle, involving compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials, as well as responsible sourcing and optimised production processes.
Brands that make the switch to sustainable packaging can enjoy the benefits that come with them, such as:
● Reduction in carbon footprint
● Positive brand reputation and image
● Conserve resources and reduce waste
● Enhanced social impact
● Future-proofing and regulatory compliance
● Efficient operation and save costs
What are some potential challenges that businesses may face?
Product and food packaging have evolved over centuries. Yet, our planet’s waste issues still remain a growing concern. In fact, over the years, the F&B industry has been found to be the primary contributor to plastic waste and pollution.
A combination of different factors makes it difficult for them to stick to sustainable food packaging. So, what are the barriers that hinder businesses from making that switch or even sticking to them?
1. Passing increased material costs onto consumers
Right now, sustainable packaging costs are slightly higher than traditional packaging due to the associated materials as well as the lower economies of scale, manufacturing processes, and less-established supply chains. However, the biggest question is who has to pay for the additional costs.
For many years, studies have shown mixed signs from consumers in their willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging. While studies have shown that more than 60 per cent of consumers state their willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging, it is still a concern for fast-moving consumer goods brands that operate on smaller margins. In such cases, the increase in overall prices becomes a significant obstacle.
Fortunately, this concern is not as pressing as they were many years ago; with advancements in technology, affordable, high-impact, sustainable solutions can be created. Combined with willing customers, the risks are significantly lower.
2. Meeting current standards and consumer expectations
Customers are often fickle-minded, and it is understandable that businesses do not want to give them reasons to consider a rival’s product instead. While we witness the shift of demand towards eco-friendliness, we are aware that consumers still expect the same experience that they have had before – and this poses a significant challenge.
For example, in the switch from plastic to paper straws, many consumers needed an easy perforation on top of having a similar performance and function in order to experience that satisfaction. Hence, more than just switching to sustainable options for the sake of going green, businesses should look into what their consumers want in order to meet their expectations.
3. The need for durability and protection
Sustainable materials have to perform as well as non-sustainable options in terms of packaging, and it goes beyond just meeting consumer expectations to the concern of product damage and food waste. Packaging, whether sustainable or not, has to protect whatever it contains, and there cannot be any compromises. At the end of the day, performance is crucial.
Fortunately, environmentally-friendly packaging, such as eco-friendly disposable cups, is getting increasingly better each day, performing just as well as conventional options.
Overcoming the obstacles that come with the sustainable switch
Businesses have a significant opportunity to achieve the reduced impact that their work brings to the environment. With the Earth’s plastic pollution reaching critical levels rapidly, there is no time to waste in making the switch to sustainable packaging. However, it is not as straightforward as making an overnight decision. There are trade-offs that need to be taken into consideration.
The good news is that SKP is here to help, especially with the F&B industry. With a comprehensive range of sustainable products, such as our EcoVue biodegradable plastic plates and utensils, as well as paper straws and containers, we are able to help your business make that switch effortlessly. We also offer customised printing if you would like to use them as part of your marketing efforts. Contact us today to get started on a greener journey!