4 MIN READ
1-15-2025
Packaging Innovations in Shipping: The Road to a Plastic-Free Future
Alex Schulze , CEO/Co-Founder
Packaging Innovations in Shipping: The Road to a Plastic-Free Future
There’s something undeniably fun about receiving a package in the mail — but what’s less delightful is the plastic waste that often comes along with it. As our online shopping habits grow, so does the environmental toll of plastic packaging. Fortunately, innovative companies are stepping up to the challenge, exploring creative and sustainable alternatives to protect our products without compromising the health of our planet with plastics.
Biodegradable Beats Plastic
Logistics companies are taking ambitious steps to redesign shipping materials, aiming to cut down plastic usage in response to environmental demands and evolving regulations. Companies are testing innovative, eco-friendly packaging solutions and developing biodegradable packaging options that can compete with plastics. Plant-based plastics, like polylactic acid (PLA) from renewable sources such as cornstarch and sugarcane, offer a plastic-like alternative that decomposes more quickly under the right conditions.
Other innovations include bagasse, the fibrous residue from sugarcane processing, which is now molded into sturdy food containers, and hemp fiber, used for packaging items needing extra durability. Even traditional recycled paper and cardboard are seeing upgrades, such as seed-infused containers that can be planted post-use. Together, these solutions reflect how logistics companies are reimagining packaging through natural resources to reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact.
New materials, such as compostable containers, mailers, and cardboard made from recycled content, are becoming common replacements for plastic wraps and fillers. Research into similar sustainable solutions is ongoing, often incentivized by awards like the German Packaging Award, which recently recognized alternatives such as cardboard padding that replaces foam, offering the same level of protection with less environmental impact.
Under The Dirt And In The Sea
Another material that has come into the light (literally) for many manufacturers is the versatile mushroom. Mushroom-based packaging uses mycelium fused with agricultural waste to form a durable, biodegradable structure ideal for protective packing. The Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies program is replacing plastic in seafood packaging with mycelium-based products, primarily targeting the foam used in coolers and buoys. Mycelium coolers are in development for transporting seafood, piloted in Alaska and Europe, and mycelium buoys for aquaculture are currently undergoing trials in the U.S. Made by growing fungi in molds filled with organic materials like hemp, these biodegradable solutions decompose naturally, reducing plastic waste, particularly in the ocean. This complements mycelium-based leather and packaging alternatives explored for other industries, showcasing mycelium's versatile, eco-friendly potential.
Seaweed is another material making waves across multiple fields as the race to tackle climate change continues. Seaweed packaging offers an eco-friendly alternative to plastic by being biodegradable, compostable, and made from renewable seaweed. Its production involves mixing seaweed with natural elements to enhance durability, allowing for various applications like food wraps, cosmetic containers, and single-use pouches. Seaweed is incredibly versatile, edible, and can even be used to create single-use packets, expanding possibilities in liquid and condiment packaging. Due to its malleable properties, many companies are exploring what seaweed has to offer the world of packaging. Costs still remain higher than traditional plastic at this time, but seaweed packaging’s benefits such as reduced carbon emissions, non-toxicity, and a sustainable supply make it a valuable option for sustainability-focused businesses.
Customized and Compostable
Amazon, for instance, is implementing made-to-fit paper bags that reduce waste and eliminate the need for plastic padding in certain regions. These bags are heat-sealed rather than glued, which means they are both recyclable and customizable for individual products, reducing overall material use. Amazon’s efforts align with broader goals to cut carbon emissions by ensuring that trucks and vans transport more orders per trip due to the minimized packaging size and weight.
HP’s approach includes designing products for easy disassembly and utilizing smart logistics to enhance efficiency and reduce overall packaging footprint. By prioritizing sustainability, HP not only addresses ecological concerns but also meets the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly practices in product delivery.
Other companies, such as DHL, are also adapting their packaging strategies by using recycled and biodegradable materials in place of traditional plastic. DHL highlights in a recent survey that 72% of participants said they are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, which adds both market appeal and regulatory readiness for businesses transitioning to greener logistics. DHL has also implemented a variety of reusable systems like returnable containers and heavy-duty boxes, which can help logistics companies reduce single-use plastic across the supply chain.
Unboxing A Healthier Planet
The logistics industry is making significant strides toward sustainability. With companies actively seeking environmentally conscious packaging solutions, each package we receive represents not just a purchase but a commitment to protecting our planet and our future. These innovative approaches are transforming the way consumers think about shipping, proving that we can enjoy the excitement of unboxing without leaving a negative impact on the environment. As consumers, we can support and celebrate these efforts, knowing that every choice we make helps pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible future. Together, we’re turning the tide on plastic waste and embracing a world where shopping can be joyful and eco-friendly.