How to Replace Single-Use Plastics in Print Campaigns

Single-use plastics are harmful to our environment. They do not decompose naturally, leading to pollution in oceans and landfills. Additionally, they contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. In response, companies are becoming more committed to reducing plastic waste by using recycled materials and minimal packaging.

Top Tips for Replacing Single-Use Plastics

Here are our essential tips for replacing single-use plastics in your print campaigns:

1. Evaluate Your Materials

A wide range of plastic items can be replaced with eco-friendly options like cardboard. For instance, we collaborated with a national charity to audit their training materials. We aimed to reduce plastic waste by replacing plastic training folders with printed cardboard versions.

Conduct an audit of all items used in your business and research greener alternatives. You'll find plenty of options that can make a positive difference.

2. Switch from Jiffy Bags to Cardboard Mailing Boxes

Jiffy bags are commonly used by e-commerce businesses for item protection during delivery. However, many of these bags cannot be recycled due to their composite materials, including plastic and bubble wrap.

So, what’s the alternative? Consider using cardboard mailing boxes! These boxes are fully recyclable, durable, and allow for branding with your logos and messages.

Make sure to contact various companies for quotes on cardboard mailing boxes. For example, Blackmore has a packaging quote form available here to help you get started.

3. Rethink Gift Box Designs

Some retail boxes often include plastic windows to showcase their contents. Why not reduce the size of the aperture or eliminate the plastic entirely? You could also display the product graphic on the outside of the box. By doing this, your box becomes fully recyclable.

Perform an audit of your packaging designs to identify areas where plastic can be omitted.

4. Choose Eco-Friendly Coatings

This is a game-changer! A new alternative to traditional lamination (a thin layer of single-use plastic that is non-recyclable) is now available: in-line coatings. These coatings are water-based, recyclable, and biodegradable. They provide a sustainable way to create an oil-proof or water-proof barrier on your printed materials.

Research local printers that offer in-line coatings. Note that they are not yet widely available. And don’t forget to add Blackmore to your contact list!

5. Try Starch-Based Wraps

Instead of wrapping items like magazines in polythene, consider using alternatives made from potato starch. You might even consider sending them out without any wrap at all. For example, Bioplast wraps are recyclable and home-compostable. They can be made from potato starch waste, and you can easily add logos and notes to the carrier sheet.

Also, look into cornstarch packaging, as it might be another viable option.

The Impact of Making Changes

By implementing these strategies, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact. The steps outlined here allow brands to contribute to a more sustainable future. Companies can participate in improving our planet’s health while also appealing to eco-conscious customers.

We encourage all businesses to actively seek out greener solutions. Making small changes can lead to a larger positive impact.

In summary, this article provides practical tips for replacing single-use plastics in print campaigns. Key strategies include switching to recyclable materials, using sustainable mailing alternatives, reconsidering packaging designs, adopting water-based coatings, and opting for starch-based wraps.

Each of these approaches not only helps the environment but also promotes your brand’s commitment to sustainability. Explore these options and engage with suppliers who align with your sustainable mission.

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Did you know? Blackmore offers a free sustainable consultation service, advising businesses on greener print solutions and suggesting more sustainable ways to print all their items. Contact us for more information

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