Greenwashing or Eco Packaging?
In response to consumers’ environmental concerns, eco packaging has become a priority for 2023. There is an industry-wide push towards recycled, biodegradable and reusable solutions that offer the necessary protection for shipping, storing and displaying goods.
The challenge is that most consumers lack the time to fully research everything they purchase. When they see colours, imagery and words that suggest environmental responsibility, they trust that these claims are true. In many cases they are, however, some brands promote green credentials that they can’t substantiate. So, how can you spot the difference between greenwashing and eco packaging?
How Can Consumers Spot Eco Packaging?
We often see greenwashing claims relating to products, yet we also need to look at the packaging. A quick scan of boxes, bottles, cans and packets can help us identify eco packaging.
Check to see:
- If the packaging has symbols to show that the material is widely recyclable
- If there is evidence that the packaging material has been sustainably sourced. Trusted symbols, for example, FSC® on paper-based packaging, will indicate this
- Whether multi-layered or multi-material packaging has been avoided – simplicity makes deconstructing and recycling far easier
In a few seconds, you can make more informed decisions.
How Can Companies Source Eco Packaging?
If you are a producer that is keen to evidence green credentials, speak to your packaging company. Can they provide eco packaging?
If you want cardboard and paper-based solutions, FSC® certified packaging manufacturers including Aylesbury Box Company, Lancashire Board and Belmont Packaging are audited. Every year, they have to evidence the sustainability of their products, processes and policies to retain the certification. As a result, choosing one of them as your packaging supplier will support your supply chain sustainability goals.
Having this proof is increasingly important, especially as the Competitions & Markets Authority is on a mission to clamp down on misleading environmental claims:
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/misleading-environmental-claims
