In a world where environmental awareness increasingly guides our daily choices, ecological packaging has become a hot topic. But what makes a packaging bag truly ecological? Let’s dive into this debate to find the answer.
1. Definition of eco-friendly packaging
Ecological packaging, or eco-friendly packaging, is designed to minimise its impact on the environment throughout its life cycle. This includes the production, use, and end of life of the product. The goal is simple: reduce waste, save resources, and promote sustainability.
Also to discover: What is an eco-friendly packaging bag and why adopt it?
2. Examples of ecological packaging
Recyclable plastic packaging for biscuits: Ipsago
Ipsago, an eco-friendly biscuit brand, successfully rebranded with the help of ePac Lyon to improve the visibility of its products in stores. Initially packaged in kraft paper, Ipsago’s snacks were not very visible on the shelves of organic stores.
In collaboration with ePac, Ipsago has opted for 100% recyclable polyethylene packaging with a transparent window, thus enhancing consumer visibility and trust.
Recyclable plastic bag for kibble: Watama
Watama is an emerging brand in the pet products market, specialising in canine treats. Watama stands out for its treats rich in high-quality proteins, omega 3, and natural plant extracts beneficial for the health and well-being of dogs.
To meet its packaging needs, Watama turned to ePac. The brand chose 100% recyclable packaging made from a PE film.
Kraft paper packaging for puzzles: Maison Joliette
Maison Joliette, founded by Fabienne Lucas, is an innovative brand that transforms beautiful illustrations into artistic objects, notably puzzles. It stands out for its eco-responsible approach, using FSC and PEFC certified materials for its puzzles and opting for recyclable white kraft paper packaging.
By adopting Doypack pouches, Maison Joliette combines practicality, lightness, and a reduction in carbon footprint, thus offering its customers a unique and environmentally friendly packaging experience.
Recyclable pouch for frozen product: Monsieur Bao
Monsieur Bao is a French brand specialising in bao. Monsieur Bao’s differentiation lies in its choice to produce exclusively in France, thus standing out in the Asian frozen products market.
They collaborated with ePac for their PE Doypack pouches, reinforcing their commitment to quality and transparency.
3. Eco-friendly packaging materials
In the constant quest for more environmentally friendly packaging, the choice between different types of packaging pouches can seem complex. Two options stand out particularly: recyclable PE/PE pouches and durable kraft paper pouches. Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of ecology and recyclability.
Recyclable PE/PE pouch: 100% recyclability
Mono film PE pouches are made from a single plastic film, which gives them a major advantage: 100% recyclability. Unlike multi-material packaging such as PET/PE, PE/PE pouches can be easily recycled without the need for material separation. This simplicity in recycling reduces the risk of waste incineration, thus contributing to environmental preservation.
Durable Kraft Paper Pouch: A Challenge for Recycling
Kraft paper is a naturally recyclable material. However, kraft paper packaging is often combined with a plastic barrier film, such as EVOH, to enhance its sealability and moisture resistance. This combination of materials makes recycling more complex, as it requires the separation of the two films to allow for recycling. This process is long and tedious for recycling centres, which often opt for waste incineration rather than recycling.
The Verdict: The Recyclable PE/PE Pouch Wins
In conclusion, although kraft paper is an eco-friendly material, mono film PE pouches stand out as the most environmentally friendly option due to their 100% recyclability. They avoid the constraints associated with material separation and thus reduce the risk of waste incineration. PE/PE pouches are therefore to be favoured by those seeking to adopt a truly ecological approach to packaging.
To go further and master your packaging choices, consult our comprehensive guide to flexible packaging.
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