Is Cardboard Packaging a Wise Choice?

Is Cardboard Packaging a Wise Choice?

It’s an exciting time in the packaging industry. That’s because environmental concerns are driving a wave of innovations. We’re seeing a significant shift away from plastic packaging and some exciting new products that are making this possible. However, sometimes the old ways are the best. So, we want to highlight why cardboard remains a wise packaging choice for producers and retailers.

How Long Have Cardboard Boxes Been Used?

The first examples of products being packaged in cardboard date back to the late 1800s. Initially, it was used for breakable items such as glass bottles and lanterns or consumables like tea, sugar and tobacco. Since then, a wide range of box styles and applications have been developed, although the basics of corrugated cardboard are much the same.

In many ways, it seems odd that a packaging solution developed over 100 years ago is still in use. What’s more, it remains the most widely used packaging material for e-commerce deliveries and industrial shipping boxes. So, why is corrugated cardboard so popular?

What are the Practical Benefits of Cardboard Packaging?

Firstly, corrugated cardboard is a simple, yet effective design. The wavy paper, held between two flat sheets, holds air and provides both cushioning and insulation. In addition, it transforms three sheets of paper into a strong and durable packaging material.

What’s more, this strength can be further enhanced by using double-walled cardboard and/or cardboard inserts. This ensures cardboard boxes are a viable option for weighty or fragile items. It also allows filled boxes to be stacked without risking damage to the goods inside.

Secondly, paper and air are not heavy. So the design results in a lightweight packaging solution. This is an essential requirement in reducing shipping costs. It also makes handling easier for couriers and warehouse workers.

Thirdly, corrugated cardboard is a versatile material. As a result, it can be designed and shaped to solve a wide range of packaging requirements. There is an extensive range of box styles, but that isn’t the limit to the possibilities. Creative minds and cardboard engineering have combined to produce amazing designs. What’s more, cardboard is straightforward to print, so bands can differentiate their packaging.

Finally, it is a low-cost option. As producers, retailers and consumers are all price-conscious, this is a vital factor in the success of corrugated cardboard as a packaging material.

What are the Environmental Benefits of Cardboard Packaging?

Paper and cardboard have the highest recycling rates of any packaging material. In the UK, this currently stands at 73.4%. We have the facilities to transform old boxes into new ones within a few weeks. The high heat used in the recycling process kills any germs and ensures new boxes are hygienic to use for packaging.

Since 1997, the cardboard industry has been actively increasing the use of recycled fibres in cardboard box production. A typical box now contains 88% of recycled fibres. The remaining 12% are mostly sourced from sawmills. They are the off-cuts and wood chips left over from timber processing. These fresh fibres maintain the strength of corrugated cardboard packaging.

In addition, the industry has been actively reducing the water used in production. Efficient machinery has helped lower water use. In addition, 90% of the water used is now cleaned and returned to the environment.

Choosing an FSC® certified packaging supplier is a simple way to identify a company that tracks its supply chain and minimises the environmental impact of all operations. Aylesbury Box Company is certified FSC® C169064 and our processes are reviewed annually to ensure sustainability is at the heart of our business.

Innovative Packaging

We love keeping up with innovations and are excited by the prospect of new packaging materials being made from agricultural bi-products, seaweed and more. We are delighted that bio-void fillers and moisture-resistant coatings have provided recyclable and compostable alternatives to plastics. However, we’ve yet to see a packaging solution that rivals the practical and environmental qualities of cardboard.

As cardboard packaging manufacturers, we hope to see boxes widely used far into the future. If you would like to discuss your packaging requirements, we’d love to hear from you. Give us a call on 01296 436888 to benefit from our advice or email enquiries@abcboc.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.