Sustainability is a growing priority for businesses across industries, and packaging is no exception. With consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging on the rise, brands are increasingly turning to sustainable packaging materials for their packaging needs, including folding cartons and custom product boxes.
But how sustainable is folding carton packaging, and what materials are typically used?
In this post, we’ll explore the sustainability of folding cartons, the eco-friendly materials involved, and how brands can make even smarter choices with inks and coatings to ensure their packaging is as green as possible.
The Growing Demand for Sustainable Packaging
Sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s becoming an expectation. Today’s consumers are more conscious about the environmental impact of the products they buy, from the materials used to the packaging they come in.
According to recent studies, 50% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging. For brands, adopting sustainable packaging materials reduces environmental impact and enhances brand loyalty and trust.
What Makes Folding Carton Packaging Sustainable?
Folding cartons are one of the most eco-friendly packaging options available, and for good reason. These cartons are typically made from renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials, making them a natural choice for brands that want to minimize their carbon footprint. Folding cartons also provide excellent protection for products while being versatile in design and function, which adds to their sustainability appeal.
Exploring the Materials
1. Folding Box Board (Sttark’s White Paper Carton)
One of the most popular materials used for folding cartons is Folding Box Board (FBB). We use this material for our White Paper Cartons. It is our most cost-effective material option and a popular carton choice for many brands. This material is 100% Blue Bin Recyclable, meaning it can be disposed of in regular recycling programs. Moreover, it’s certified by leading sustainability organizations, including FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council), SFI® (Sustainable Forestry Initiative), and PEFC® (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), which ensures that it comes from responsibly managed forests. FBB is also lightweight, reducing transportation emissions, and versatile enough for various product categories.
2. Sugarcane Bagasse
Sugarcane Bagasse is an innovative and sustainable material made from the fibrous residue left after extracting sugar from sugarcane. It is biodegradable and compostable, and offers a low-carbon alternative to traditional paperboards. Bagasse is increasingly popular among brands that want to make eco-friendly choices without sacrificing quality. Not only does it reduce the reliance on virgin wood fibers, but it also takes advantage of agricultural waste, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.
3. Recycled Paperboard
Recycled paperboard is one of the most eco-friendly materials available for folding carton packaging. It is made from 100% post-consumer recycled content, which helps reduce the need for virgin materials and supports a circular economy. Many brands are shifting towards recycled paperboard for its sustainability and durability, making it an increasingly popular choice.
4. Kraft Paperboard
Kraft paperboard is another sustainable option that is biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable. It’s often used in its natural, unbleached form, which reduces the need for chemical processing, making it a favorite for eco-conscious brands.
The Role of Inks and Coatings in Sustainable Packaging
While the materials used in packaging are critical, the inks and coatings applied to them also play a significant role in sustainability. Traditional inks often contain petroleum-based chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. However, more sustainable alternatives are now widely available.
Sustainable Ink Options
- Water-Based Inks: These inks use water as a solvent rather than harmful chemicals, making them a much more environmentally friendly option. They also reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to a cleaner production process.
- Soy-Based Inks: Derived from soybeans, soy-based inks are another eco-friendly option. They are renewable, biodegradable, and produce vibrant colors with a smaller environmental footprint.
- Vegetable-Based Inks: Similar to soy-based inks, vegetable-based inks are derived from renewable sources and are known for their reduced environmental impact and excellent print quality.
Sustainable Coatings
- Biodegradable Coatings: These coatings break down naturally, unlike traditional plastic coatings, which can take hundreds of years to decompose. Biodegradable coatings are made from plant-based materials and are perfect for brands looking to maintain the recyclability of their packaging.
- Water-Based Coatings: Much like water-based inks, these coatings reduce the release of harmful chemicals into the environment and are highly effective in protecting the packaging while keeping it eco-friendly.
How Brands Are Embracing Sustainable Packaging Practices
Many brands are already embracing these sustainable materials and practices. For example, companies like Mars and Kellanova are making efforts to reduce plastic in their packaging, while others are adopting mono-material solutions to ensure easier recycling(
Additionally, innovative options like sugarcane bagasse and other biodegradable materials are beginning to reshape the custom packaging landscape.
Conclusion: Making Sustainable Choices for Your Packaging
Folding carton packaging offers brands a wide range of sustainable options, from recyclable materials to eco-friendly inks and coatings. By choosing the right combination of materials, brands can reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high-quality, attractive packaging. Whether it’s using FBB, Sugarcane Bagasse, recycled paperboard, or exploring new biodegradable coatings, businesses can take meaningful steps toward sustainability.
As the demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, adopting these eco-friendly practices will not only benefit the environment but also resonate with consumers who value responsible choices.
For more information on sustainable folding carton packaging solutions, contact us to learn how we can help your brand make the switch to greener packaging options.
