A Year in Review: Sustainable Packaging Trends in 2017
January 02, 2018
For over 70 years, we at Ernest have seen trends come and go. Heck, some of us are still having a hard time letting bell-bottoms go! The packaging industry has seen its fair share of popular practices fall in and out of favor, and 2017 was no different. The biggest trend we saw was a stronger stance on going green through sustainable materials and recycling, and it’s sure to play an important role in the packaging industry in 2018.
A GREAT TIME TO GO GREEN
There was a lot of buzz this year around sustainable materials, and for good reason. With more packages being sent every day, it’s more important than ever for businesses to reduce their carbon footprint.
Taking a joy ride might be a lot more sustainable in the not too distant future. Michelin is researching and developing cardboard-based tires that are completely biodegradable. You’ll never have to worry about getting a flat again!
Perhaps the most notable example of a company going green is IKEA’s research into mushroom-based packaging. We’re excited to see what the future holds for sustainable packaging materials, especially if it’s as tasty as it’s shaping up to be!
RECYCLED PLASTICS ARE HERE TO STAY
Sustainable materials and recycling go hand in hand, and 2017 saw some companies take creative liberties with recycled plastics that are as eye-opening as they are Earth-friendly. We took a look at just how that recycling process works, and how those plastics end up back in the packaging economy.
One triumph in recycling this year was the harvesting of ocean plastics by major companies. By collecting plastics from beaches that have washed ashore from the sea, Procter & Gamble is harvesting these plastics to use in ¼ of all Head & Shoulders bottles in the future.
Dell is also working to save the planet with each product they sell. While laptop recycling programs are becoming more prevalent with tech companies, Dell is using ocean plastics to bring recycled material to their inner packaging.
With the new year on the horizon, you owe it to yourself to partner with a packaging company who’s always looking to the future. Ernest Packaging Solutions has over 70 years of experience in the field, and we never stop thinking about what’s next. Give us a call today to get your new year off to a great green start.
