Sustainable Packaging

Packaging that WON’T last forever!

Duncan Print is committed to sustainable packaging manufacturing

reduced Packaging design

There are several elements that can affect the sustainability of packaging. It is important to consider the whole lifecycle of the packaging when reducing waste. Starting at the purpose of the packaging? Is it necessary at all? If you have found yourself searching for new packaging then the answer is most likely yes! Packaging itself can have environmental benefits in reducing waste of both damaged products in transit and also preserving perishable goods. One of the main drivers of packaging is protection of the goods inside, if these are not damaged then this avoids producing and transporting surplus stocks.

The next question to ask is how to reduce the amount of packaging required to the optimal level. Clever design should ‘light weight’ the packaging and minimise waste whilst still fulfilling its requirements for branding and protection. Customers are becoming more aware of wasteful packaging and it can have negative connotations when packaging appears to be excessive.

sustainably sourced Materials

Paper and board is one of the most sustainable packaging materials available as it is a renewable resource. Forests in the UK are growing every day as a result of the paper and board industry and account for over 40% of the forests in europe.*

Duncan Print Group is both FSC and PEFC certified and can offer a wide choice of materials including both recycled and sustainably sourced boards and papers for production.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a global, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion of responsible forest management worldwide. FSC defines standards based on agreed principles for responsible forest stewardship that are supported by environmental, social and economic stakeholders. To learn more, visit www.fsc.org

Reuse and recycling

Once packaging has been consumed there are several routes it can go. Ideally packaging should have a secondary use that can prolong its life and avoid the need to waste or recycle. This can extend to packaging that can later be refilled with a lighter weight refill pack an is an area we can help advise on.

When it is not practical to reuse packaging then choosing widely recyclable materials makes it easier for the end user to contribute. Messaging to aid in this process can be used on the packaging.

To get started on your next packaging project, with a sustainable company using renewable and ethically sourced materials, send us your brief using the ‘get started’ button. Take a look at our packaging process if you are interested in what comes next or our packaging styles page for examples on where to begin with your bespoke packaging.

* Two Sides analysis of UN FAO data 2016