Many small businesses are rethinking their packaging processes in our increasingly eco-conscious world. This is because adopting environmentally friendly packaging strategies can do more than make a positive difference for the planet. It can also help small businesses meet consumer demands, improve efficiency, and boost their bottom lines.
Here, we’ll take a look back at some of the highlights and trends we saw in sustainable packaging in 2023. With the holiday season approaching, we’ll also explore some immediate ways small businesses can get a jumpstart on their New Year’s sustainability initiatives with their holiday packaging designs.
Four Eco-Friendly Packaging Trends to Keep an Eye on
Staying abreast of the latest news, consumer priorities, and other issues can help you plan for a productive and sustainable holiday season and new year. Here are four trends from 2023 that we can expect to see carry into 2024 and beyond:
1. Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging Materials
One of the most significant and ongoing eco-friendly packaging trends is the pivot away from plastic packaging and toward biodegradable and compostable materials.
Biodegradable and compostable materials not only decompose naturally, but they also contribute to the circular economy. The biodegradable packaging market is skyrocketing because of its positive environmental impact: It’s expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% between 2023 and 2032, according to Market Research Future (MRFR).
In particular, corrugated cardboard has distinguished itself for many reasons, including biodegradability and compostability. But these are far from corrugated cardboard’s only desirable traits. It’s also recyclable, strong, durable, and affordable.
2. Design Minimalism and Optimization
When it comes to packaging design, sustainability, and minimalism go hand in hand. That’s where packaging optimization comes in.
Imagine you’ve ever received a small item in a very large box stuffed with packing peanuts. In that case, you’ve experienced the antithesis of packaging optimization in the form of wasted materials, excess costs, and the associated amplified environmental impact.
An effective packaging optimization strategy, right-size packaging, involves using the smallest amount of packaging to safely and securely protect its contents.
In addition to reducing the amount of materials (and waste), this approach saves space during shipping and storage while strengthening the supply chain by requiring fewer trips.
A visible demonstration of a brand’s commitment to efficiency, right-size packaging is also a powerful branding tool.
Furthermore, the minimalist aesthetic is currently having a major moment in graphic design, meaning that minimalist packaging will appeal to consumers on several levels.
Small businesses should prioritize simple, functional, aesthetically pleasing, and eco-friendly designs to capitalize on this trend.
3. Reusable Packaging Solutions
As the circular economy gains momentum, reusable packaging solutions are also trending. Small businesses are exploring options like refillable containers, returnable packaging, and subscription-based models, encouraging consumers to return packaging for reuse or refill.
One caveat? As with all sustainable packaging, the degree to which reusable packaging solutions are advantageous to the environment hinges on proper use. This depends on consumers' understanding of how to reuse (or compost or recycle) packaging. One recent study indicates that most consumers are confused about how different types of eco-friendly packaging work and are calling for “full transparency” across everything from the carbon footprint of packaging material to how to dispose of packaging after use.
4. Innovative and Progressive Technologies
Technological advancements play a pivotal role in driving eco-friendly packaging innovations. From using water-based inks to employing AI to optimize packaging materials and logistics, keeping up with change can give small businesses a critical edge.
Looking ahead, we can also expect blockchain technology to play a greater role in supporting supply chain transparency, including tracking and verifying sustainable sourcing of materials, ensuring authenticity, and affirming ethical practices.
Get Started with Sustainable Holiday Packaging
Why wait until 2024 to move toward a more sustainable future for your small business? There’s no better time to start than right now with your end-of-year holiday packaging.
While rolling out a year’s worth of sustainable packaging can be intimidating for budget-conscious small businesses, smaller batch holiday packaging is an excellent way to experiment with sustainable packaging on a smaller scale — especially when you work with partners with favorable practices, such as no minimum order requirements. These “test runs” have the potential to yield invaluable insights regarding the benefits, cost, and feasibility of implementing sustainable packaging on a larger scale.
In addition to showcasing your sustainability efforts, investing in custom holiday packaging has other advantages, including creating “limited edition” buzz and value, raising brand awareness, encouraging gifting, and more.
Create Small Batch Custom Packaging With DIYPack
Spurred by innovation, consumer demand, and a commitment to sustainability, the shift towards eco-friendly packaging practices is underway among Etsy sellers and other small businesses.
Whether you’re looking for help with sustainable beauty packaging ideas or ready to start customizing your eco-friendly holiday packaging, you’ve come to the right place. Sustainability is one of our core values here at DIYPack, and we’d love to join you on your journey to a green and prosperous New Year.
Not sure whether custom boxes are right for you? To experience our products without a commitment, try our Sample Program.
