Sustainability is high on the list of priorities for many businesses and consumers alike. It is becoming increasingly important to not only be a company that focuses on profits, but also its impact on the environment.

Of Couse, staying operational in a way that protects the future of the company through securing the future of the planet is the ultimate long-term plan. This is one of the reasons why if you distribute products, you need to be conscious of the impact your stock and packaging has on the planet. Here we break down some of the ways you can ensure your custom packaging boxes is good from a sustainability standpoint and popular with consumers.

• Buy from companies with the FSC stamp of approval

The FSC logo signifies that your custom packaging has come from an supplier of responsible source paper. This is important as it indicates that the paper has been produced with a view to sustainability both in terms of the money provided for the workers and the proper management of the forest it came from.

• Only order custom packaging that is going to be used

Getting the order right through efficient delivery is one of the simplest steps you can take towards sourcing sustainable custom packaging. Start by taking a total stock check and working out the amount of packaging that you will need. This then removes the guessing that need to be made. You should, however, allow for shrinkage and ensure you are not left without enough custom packaging.

• Make sure your custom packaging is recyclable

Custom packaging is great due to its personalisation and the added quality it gives to customers. This is great, but with more consumers wanting recyclable goods you better make sure your packaging can be easily processed in standard household recycled waste. This improves your customers view of your company and can gives you an interesting USP to add to your marketing mix.

Your supply chain is key to your business sustainability

Sustainability cannot be achieved by purely focusing on your operations as a company. You need to have a look at the impact you are having throughout the supply chain to track down activities that could be made more environmentally friendly. Make use of a sustainable supply chain software like the one you can find right here on Greenstone.

• Try to keep the custom packaging minimal

In addition to recyclable packaging, customers also want their products to come in as little wrapping as possible. Plastic is a material that is best avoided here. Your best bet it to order custom packaging with a minimal design in easily recyclable materials like paper or card. Make it easy to open and break down so that it can be recycled, and you will be on to a winner. If you are packing more breakable items, try to use recyclable paper to secure it rather than bubble wrap.

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