We strive to be transparent and upfront when it comes to what is and is not sustainable packaging. We don’t fit the expectation into the industry, instead we present the real facts backed by science to support the expectations. Here we highlight products and claims which as packaging experts we don’t consider fully sustainable options.

• Biodegradable Plastics: While biodegradable plastics have gained popularity for their potential to break down more quickly than traditional plastics, they often require specific conditions, such as industrial composting facilities to decompose fully. In the absence of these conditions, they can still persist in the environment, contributing to pollution.
• Single-Use Compostable Packaging: Similar to biodegradable plastics, compostable packaging items like plates, cups, and cutlery need specialized composting facilities to break down properly. When disposed of in regular waste streams or landfills, they may not biodegrade as intended.
• Paper Packaging with Non-Recyclable Coatings: Some paper packaging products come with non-recyclable coatings or laminates that make them difficult to recycle. These coatings can contaminate recycling streams and hinder efforts to reduce waste.
• Packaging with Excessive Greenwashing: Some manufacturers and suppliers may overstate the environmental benefits of their products through greenwashing. This can mislead consumers into thinking they are making sustainable choices when, in fact, the product’s overall impact on the environment remains high.
• Heavy, Bulky Packaging: Packaging materials that are unnecessarily heavy or bulky can result in higher transportation costs and increased emissions. While they may not explicitly market themselves as sustainable, their inefficiency in resource use contradicts sustainability goals.
• Products Lacking Certification or Transparency: Packaging products claiming to be eco-friendly should ideally have certifications or clear documentation to support their sustainability claims by trusted third party sources. Lack of transparency and verifiable information can raise doubts about a product’s true environmental impact.
• Excessive Packaging: While not limited to a specific material, the practice of over-packaging products can lead to unnecessary waste and resource consumption. Companies may use excessive packaging to enhance product aesthetics or safety, even if it’s not environmentally justified.