Eco-friendly packaging alternatives: why cardboard is the best choice

Introduction

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it's a business imperative. Consumers are more aware of environmental issues, governments are tightening regulations, and brands that ignore eco-friendly packaging risk losing market share. However, one material repeatedly proves its reliability and green credentials: cardboard . While there are many alternatives on the market, corrugated boxes remain the best balance of affordability, protection, and sustainability.

The problem with traditional packaging

For decades, plastic dominated the packaging industry. Bubble wrap, Styrofoam filling, plastic shipping bags—they promised low costs and convenience. But the drawbacks are clear:

Non-biodegradable waste – plastic can take up to 500 years to break down.
Limited recyclability – not all plastics can be processed and contamination makes recycling inefficient.
Negative consumer perception – more and more people see plastic packaging as irresponsible and outdated.

That's why companies are looking for environmentally friendly packaging alternatives that reduce their ecological footprint without losing functionality.

Eco-friendly packaging options

Nowadays there are several sustainable materials available:

1. Paper and cardboard

The most popular solution. Cardboard packaging is recyclable, biodegradable, and renewable. Corrugated cardboard offers excellent protection and is widely used in e-commerce and logistics.

2. Biodegradable plastics

PLA and other plant-based plastics are designed to degrade under specific conditions. While promising, they often require industrial composting facilities, which limits their use.

3. Packaging based on mushrooms and plants

Innovative startups are producing packaging from agricultural waste or fungi. While it's sustainable, production costs are high and large-scale application is limited.

4. Reusable packaging

Some companies are experimenting with return shipping boxes or fabric envelopes. While environmentally friendly, logistics and costs make large-scale implementation in e-commerce difficult.

Why Cardboard Stands Out

Of all the options, cardboard is the most practical for businesses today . Its main advantages are:

Availability – Easily available worldwide.
Affordability – cheaper than most alternatives.
Flexibility – suitable for virtually any product, from food to electronics.
Customer satisfaction – consumers see cardboard packaging as environmentally conscious and responsible.

Practical example: switching from plastic to cardboard

Several major retailers have replaced plastic filler with cardboard inserts or paper-based filling. The results are clear:

Lower shipping costs thanks to lighter packaging materials.
Higher recycling rates (more than 80% of cardboard is recycled in the EU).
Positive feedback from customers , which strengthens brand image.

Cardboard and branding

Another strength of cardboard is its branding potential. With custom cardboard boxes, companies can add logos, colors, or QR codes without sacrificing recyclability. This combination of marketing and sustainability makes cardboard one of the most future-proof materials.

Conclusion

Eco-friendly packaging is the future, and while many innovative materials are emerging, cardboard remains the frontrunner . It combines low costs, sustainability, and strength like no other. For e-commerce companies, it's not just a packaging choice—it's a strategic advantage.

27 Aug 2025

The future of sustainable packaging in e-commerce

Introduction E-commerce is growing explosively, and with it, the demand for packaging. But with millions of packages shipped daily, packaging waste has become a serious problem. The future of packaging must be sustainable, innovative, and customer-friendly . Cardboard, once considered a simple material, is now at the heart of this transformation. Trend 1: Smart packaging Future cardboard boxes are more than just containers – they also carry information. QR codes and NFC chips provide product details, authentication, or recycling instructions. Retailers are using smart packaging to track returns and monitor supply chains. Trend 2: The disappearance of single-use plastics Regulations in the EU and elsewhere restrict the use of plastic. Cardboard, recyclable and biodegradable, is replacing plastic shipping bags, bubble wrap, and even wooden crates in certain sectors. Trend 3: Modular and reusable designs Customers appreciate packaging that is easy to open, close, and reuse. Future designs will focus on: Self-closing boxes without tape. Easy to open tear strips . Multi-purpose boxes for returns or multiple use. Trend 4: Stronger but lighter material Innovations in corrugated cardboard are creating thinner yet stronger boxes, reducing both material consumption and shipping costs. This trend of "lightweighting" will dominate logistics in the coming decade. Trend 5: Branding and sustainability combined Consumers no longer see eco-friendly packaging as boring or simple. High-quality printing on cardboard makes it possible to combine sustainability with a premium unboxing experience . Expect more creative designs that merge branding, sustainability, and customer satisfaction . What this means for companies To remain competitive, e-commerce companies should: Must switch completely to recyclable cardboard solutions. Smart packaging needs to explore customer engagement. Investing in innovative box designs that reduce waste. Conclusion The future of e-commerce packaging is green, smart, and customer-focused . Cardboard, with its versatility and eco-friendly properties, remains the foundation of this evolution. Companies that embrace these trends early on gain both customer loyalty and comply with regulations more quickly.

27 Aug 2025

How to choose the right cardboard box for shipping

Introduction Not all cardboard boxes are created equal. Choosing the right packaging is crucial for safe shipping, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction . Whether you run a small online store or manage large-scale logistics, understanding the differences between cardboard types and box designs helps prevent damage, reduce waste, and strengthen your brand reputation. Step 1: Understand the types of corrugated cardboard Cardboard is classified based on the number of layers and the type of flute. The main options are: 3-layer cardboard (single wall) Light and affordable. Suitable for clothing, cosmetics or small non-fragile products. Not recommended for heavy or fragile goods. 5-layer cardboard (double wall) Stronger and more durable. Ideal for electronics, small appliances or heavy goods up to approx. 30–40 kg. Provides better resistance to slumping and stacking pressure. 7-layer cardboard (triple corrugated) The strongest option. Suitable for industrial products, machine parts or international pallet shipments. Often used as an alternative to wooden crates due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. Step 2: Choose the right box style Depending on the needs, there are different box models: Standard Folding Boxes (RSC) – versatile and cost-efficient. Die-cut boxes – custom-made to the product dimensions. Letterbox/mailer boxes – ideal for e-commerce, stylish and user-friendly. Extra strong boxes – with reinforced walls for maximum protection. Step 3: Match the box to the product The golden rule: the box should fit the product, not the other way around . Boxes that are too large increase shipping costs and require unnecessary padding. Boxes that are too small increase the risk of damage. Tips: For fragile products, allow 3–5 cm space for protection. Use dividers or inserts for multiple items. For valuable goods: use anti-tamper seals or printed tape. Step 4: Think about sustainability Eco-friendly packaging isn't just a trend—it's a customer expectation. Choose 100% recyclable cardboard boxes and avoid plastic filler whenever possible. Paper filler or cardboard inserts protect your products without harming the environment. Step 5: Branding Opportunities The shipping box is often the first physical point of contact with the customer. Investing in custom printed cardboard packaging increases brand recognition and creates a professional image. Conclusion The right cardboard box depends on the product's weight, fragility, and shipping conditions. By choosing the right wall thickness, box style, and size, companies can save costs, protect their goods, and enhance their eco-friendly image .