With the popularity of green living, the reduction of waste, and reusing all the materials we can it is no surprise there are new initiatives to cut back on packaging waste. Before you jump on the bandwagon it is a good idea to have all the details so you can make the best decision for your company. A new program is now being tested to see how reusable packaging will work out for many large companies and we think it deserves a second look.
The Latest In Reusable Packaging
Launched by The World Economic Forum in Switzerland, the new Loop program began at the beginning of the year in January of 2019. They describe their program as “the milkman reimagined” and if you are still confused we will explain. Back in the day, the milkman would go door to door dropping off fresh milk in glass containers, at the end of the week the milkman would pick up the empty glasses and replace them.
The Loop program runs off the same principle of one in one out. Large companies have already started returning used packaging do be cleaned, refilled with fresh product, and then resold to the public. The idea is an old one reinvented and is a good idea for many, but is it right for you?
How Can You Benefit From It?
The benefits of reusable packaging are pretty obvious but just in case you didn’t realize it, our landfills are beyond full. Unfortunately, it is a real crisis and between our waterways and landfills, we are drowning in plastic bags and toxic waste. Reusing packaging significantly reduces and could eliminate any further waste you contribute.
Reusable packaging could save you money a well. It would take some number crunching but it is very likely you could shave a bit off your bottom line.
What Are Its Disadvantages?
Although there is a possibility this could save you money the same is true for the opposite. Business owner’s concerns come from the price of high-quality recyclable plastics and the fact that prices are bound to be much higher. This is essentially the main concern when it comes to reusable plastics.
It seems as though it is really not marketed to your average middle American business but rather to major cities like New York, Toronto, or Paris. With that being said, in the grand scheme of working toward a healthier environment, the program is a step in the right direction. There are alternatives if this is not economical for your company.
Flexible Packaging, Another Option
For those of you who feel like reusable packaging is just not in your future, there are other options. Flexible packaging is described as any packaging, liner, or overwrap that can change shape based on what it contains. Although it is not reusable, flexible packaging is still one of the more environmentally friendly packaging options.
It is cheaper, it looks good, preserves freshness, its convenient, and it is more cost-effective. Flexible packaging used less energy when produced, reducing carbon emissions and lowering initial waste. In the end, it is up to you to do the numbers and choose what is best for your business not only the environment.
Call Us For Packaging Solutions
Western Packaging has a solution for all of your packaging needs and much more. We offer our customers a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials for packaging along with many other products used for business and agriculture. Give our team a call, we would love to answer all of your questions and be your number one packaging supplier.
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