Take Action: 5 Alternatives to Plastic Packaging

Take Action: 5 Alternatives to Plastic Packaging

Plastic air pockets, bubble wrap and air cushions have been used in packaging since the late 1950’s.

These fillers have certainly helped to provide a protective layer when sending items in the post. They’ve helped billions of products to withstand the effects of vibration and shock damage during transit. With the rise in online shopping, they continue to be seen as an essential aspect of product packaging, but this could be the point of change.

Plastic Pollution Hits the Headlines

Nothing highlighted the issue of plastic pollution as effectively as Blue Planet 2. The scale of the problem and its devastating effect was broadcast to millions of viewers. Whilst campaigners have been raising the issue for years, this BBC series put the subject at the top of the agenda.

Just months after the programme was aired, a decision in China further prioritised the need for change. For decades, the UK’s plastic waste has been sent to China for processing. We’ve shipped our waste for another country to deal with. China has now made the decision to close the door to plastic waste imports, with immediate effect.

The reality is that the UK hasn’t the facilities to process all the plastic waste it produces. We don’t have the space to store it either. The only viable answer is to greatly reduce the volume of single use plastic being produced. It’s likely that a Government incentive or levy will be introduced to tackle the problem. If plastic becomes a less attractive option, what are the alternatives?

5 Alternatives to Plastic Air Pockets in Packaging

If your company have decided to be plastic clever and take action, you need to be aware of viable packaging alternatives. These are Aylesbury Box Company’s top five suggestions:

1. Bespoke product packaging design can eliminate the need for any filler material
2. Cardboard inserts provide a practical means of holding goods in place
3. Shredded paper and card can be effective for packing into boxes
4. WoolCool is a highly efficient insulating filler being widely used for pharmaceutical and food packaging
5. Eco air pockets are available; these paper, algae and fungi based materials in place of plastic

We can supply any of the alternatives listed above. If you would like our advice on the best option for your products and budget, contact us at Aylesbury Box Company.

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