Corrugated cardboard is considered one of the most environmentally friendly packaging materials available. Here are five reasons why it stands out as an eco-friendly choice:

1. Renewable and Sustainable

The material corrugated cardboard is made from is wood pulp derived from trees, which is a renewable resource. Sustainable forestry practices, such as tree planting and responsible harvesting, ensure a continuous supply of raw materials. According to Two Sides, “European forests have been growing by over 1,500 football pitches every day.”

Many manufacturers including Sandland Packaging are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified which ensures a chain of custody for materials from certified sustainable forests, further promoting responsible resource management.

2. Recyclability

One of the most significant advantages of corrugated cardboard is its high recyclability. It is relatively easy to collect, recycle, and reprocess cardboard into new products, including more cardboard. According to Statista In 2021, 5.4 million metric tons of paper and cardboard packaging was created by households in the United Kingdom. Of this total, 3.8 million metric tons was recovered, giving a recycling rate of roughly 71 percent.

This closed-loop recycling system reduces the need for virgin materials and minimises waste going to landfill. Recycled cardboard can be used to make new packaging or even paper products like newspapers and tissue paper.

3. Biodegradability

Cardboard is biodegradable, meaning it breaks down naturally over time without causing long-lasting environmental harm. When composted, cardboard decomposes, returning nutrients to the soil without creating persistent waste or pollution. Please note, it is considered better practice to compost corrugated with no coatings and minimal printing.

4. Lightweight and Space-Efficient

Another benefit of cardboard is that it’s lightweight, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions during transportation, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.

5. Customisable and Efficient Design

Corrugated cardboard can be designed to fit specific packaging needs, which reduces material waste by creating bespoke packaging to fit specific products. These packaging solutions carefully fit the product, minimising excess space and the need for extra materials. Read how we designed a safe packaging solution for glass containers.

Bespoke packaging also enhances product protection, reducing the likelihood of damage and waste in transit.

Speak to the knowledgeable team at Sandland Packaging to find out more about using corrugated cardboard to create bespoke packaging for your products.