In the packaging of packaging most additional plastic is used unintentionally, i.e. here a strip of tape, there a plastic bag of bubble wrap. And in most cases this additional plastic can be changed for packaging materials of a different sort of plastic or removed completely.
Replace Bubble Wrap with Paper Void Fill
Paper packing materials such as crumpled kraft paper or paper honeycomb wrap can be used to protect products in the same way that bubble wrap does. These products are available in rolls, can be torn to the required length and are fully recyclable at the kerbside. Therefore they can be a great alternative to bubble wrap and should be the first thing that you reach for when packing items.
Switch to Paper or Paper-Backed Tape
Standard brown paper tape is ideal for securing cardboard packaging as it tears cleanly and disintegrates in the recycling bin with the packaging. Water-activated paper tape is another option and is particularly strong for securing large or irregularly shaped items made of corrugated materials. A starter roll of this type of tape will cost approximately £5 to £10.
Use Card Mailers Instead of Plastic Polybags
There are some sturdy card mailers on the market which are perfect for sending items such as clothing, books, cosmetics etc. They are flat when sent and look far more considered than if they were sent in a polybag. There are also some really neat corrugated postal boxes which are ideal for sending larger flat items.
For Cardboard Packaging, see https://capscases.co.uk/services-2/sustainable-cardboard-packaging.
Check Your Labelling
Avoid sticky plastic pouches for labels on the outside of parcels as these can pollute recycling streams. Instead print on kraft paper labels or use a paper document wallet which can be sealed with paper tape.
Know Your Legal Position
As a business you also need to be aware of your legal position as UK businesses with turnover, etc above certain levels have Producer Responsibility for packaging waste. Reducing plastic packaging therefore is not just ‘good’ to do but also affects your compliance.
Making changes one at a time allows you to introduce changes into your daily packing routine without any disruption to your dispatch activity.