We love our planet EARTH and care for her. Sustainable is defined as capable of being maintained at a steady level without exhausting natural resources or causing ecological damage. With regards to packaging, not only does this include structures that may be recyclable or made from renewable resources, but it also includes the energy inputs used to create the package, to transport the package, and to store the package.
To be sustainable, we need to look at the three notorious “R’s.” Often people consider only the Recycle option. But we shouldn’t forget the Reduce and Reuse components, as well. Many products are truly over packaged. For instance, bags and pouches are sometimes too big or gauges too heavy for the needs of the product. The main reason for a package is to protect the product. Package specifications should achieve that goal — and not much more — if we are truly interested in sustainability. Sometimes, products are over-packaged to convey a message of high value to a customer. However, reducing gauge and dimensions reduces the amount of energy used to make the package and also the carbon foot prints. Stand up pouches provide a great example of the Reuse portion of the three “R’s.” They are often made with a reclosable zipper, creating a reusable package and reducing the need to repackage leftovers.
Amber has the capability to make bags and pouches from biodegradable films. We can reverse print PLA and laminate that to biodegradable film. Minimum run quantities are higher than conventional structures. Amber is researching methods to achieve a 100% compostable bag or pouch; however, the structure must be carefully reviewed to ensure it provides the appropriate amount of protection for the intended product. In cases where a barrier to oxygen is needed, we will often incorporate a layer of foil in the pouch, making a package that is about 80% biodegradable.
