Five Reasons to Slash Plastics in Packaging

Plastic packaging, especially clamshells and blister packs, has seen a rise in utilization for its protective qualities. However, significant drawbacks have been identified regarding consumer safety, environmental impact, and sustainability goals. The article from Supply Chain Brain (SCB) highlights these critical reasons for reducing plastic packaging. The key points of the article include:

1. Excessive Waste Generation: Plastic packaging contributes significantly to waste, with up to 60% of all plastic waste coming from product packaging. The recycling rate for these plastics is alarmingly low, with less than 5% being recycled in the US, as most households lack curbside recycling.

2. High Transition Costs: Brands express concern over the costs of shifting to sustainable packaging. Despite the initial costs, sustainable packaging can be economical with increased volumes and can significantly drive down costs if integrated early in the product design stage.

3. Global Regulatory Actions: The UN and governments globally are taking steps to curtail plastic pollution. This includes taxes on single-use plastics and legislations, placing a greater regulatory burden on the use of plastic.

4. Inefficient Alternatives: Quick fixes such as cable and twist ties, which cut down on plastics, can markedly increase labor costs and reduce throughput, underscoring the need for a strategic, sustainability-based approach in product design.

5. Consumer Preferences: With a growing preference for sustainable packaging, a study found that 77% of surveyed consumers in the US and Europe are more likely to purchase sustainably packaged products. Not to be ignored are the very real hazards created by the use of clamshell packaging. The phenomenon known as “wrap rage” can cause impatient consumers to resort to the use of knives and other dangerous implements to cut through clam shell packaging that is a barrier to easy opening.

Reducing packaging waste not only aligns with environmental initiatives but also can present cost benefits to businesses. The move towards sustainable solutions is reinforced by growing consumer awareness, the pressures of global regulation, and the need for sustainable manufacturing and supply chain practices. However, challenges such as high initial costs and the search for efficient alternatives show that eliminating plastics from packaging requires thoughtful strategies and investment in design and innovation.

Transform your packaging with the Avery Dennison IndES Elastic Staple System. With reduced plastic usage compared to clamshells, and a design that's both secure and appealing, it's a win for the environment and your products.