27 Sustainable Packaging Solutions: From Fashion to Food (2024)

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In today’s world, where environmental responsibility is more important than ever, businesses are increasingly turning to sustainable packaging solutions.

I did research and found 27 innovative companies that are leading the way in sustainable packaging solutions worldwide; from compostable materials to recyclable and reusable designs & for various industries (food, clothing, electronics, etc).

I divided them based on country (US/Canada, UK, Europe, Australia/New Zealand), but a lot of them offer worldwide delivery. For each company, you’ll find a short description with a bullet point list of some essential info. Let’s jump right in!

27 Sustainable Packaging Solutions:

US / Canada:

Eco Enclose

EcoEnclose provides eco-friendly packaging solutions made from 100% recycled materials and is fully recyclable, offering businesses sustainable options like mailers, boxes, and labels. With a commitment to a circular economy, EcoEnclose caters to companies of all sizes looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Based in: the US
Available in: the US
Good for: Businesses of all sizes
Price: Varies; starting at $0.10 per unit for kraft mailers
Minimal order: 5,000 items for food packaging, 25 units for clothing packaging
Packaging type: Variety of options for clothing, food, cosmetics, jewelry, artwork, etc:

JBM Packaging

JBM Packaging is a leader in custom eco-friendly packaging solutions focusing on compostable and recyclable materials.

Based in: the US
Available in: the US
Good for: Medium to large-sized businesses
Price: Varies depending on the specific product, customization, and order size
Minimal order: Large-scale orders
Packaging type:
– EcoView™: Transparent windows made from compostable films.
– EcoLuxe™: Paper-based packaging with a luxury feel, fully recyclable.
– EcoSeal™: Recyclable paper-based sealing solutions.
– EcoTite™: Paper packaging with barrier properties for moisture and oxygen-sensitive products.
– EcoWrap™: Flexible paper wraps for items like food and clothing.

A New Earth Project

A New Earth Project offers a range of 100% curbside recyclable packaging solutions free from single-use plastics. Packaging types vary widely, including paper, plastic, glass, metal, and biodegradable options, and can be categorized by their material, use (primary, secondary, tertiary), function (protective, functional, aesthetic), and specialty features (reusable, smart).

Based in: the US
Available in: the US & Canada
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Varies by product type and quantity; specific prices are not listed but you can get an offer by contacting the company
Minimal order: Minimum order quantities vary by product but generally cater to businesses with small to medium-scale needs
Packaging type: Sustainable packaging solutions such as paper-based mailers, corrugated boxes, molded pulp inserts, etc.

Better Earth

Better Earth focuses on industrial compostable packaging, offering solutions that break down in commercial composting facilities. Their products are ideal for businesses in the food service industry seeking certified compostable options that meet stringent sustainability standards.

Based in: the US
Available in: the US
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing based on product and quantity
Minimal order: Varies; typically requires bulk orders
Packaging type: Compostable food service packaging, including cups, plates, containers, and cutlery

Noissue

Noissue specializes in custom-branded, sustainable packaging, with a stylish touch. They provide compostable, recycled, and reusable packaging options, perfect for small to medium-sized businesses.

Based in: the US
Available: Globally
Good for: Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, including startups, independent brands, and e-commerce stores.
Price: Competitive pricing for smaller quantities
Minimal order: 250 units
Packaging type: Compostable mailers, compostable stickers & labels, recycled custom tape

Tipa Corp

TIPA Corp is at the forefront of flexible compostable packaging solutions that decompose like organic waste. Their focus is on industries like food and fashion, offering high-performance, flexible packaging that mirrors the qualities of traditional plastics without the environmental burden.

Based in: the US
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Suitable for medium to large businesses
Price: Based on the specific product and order volume
Minimal order: 25,000 units or 500 kg / It can vary depending on the product and customization needs
Packaging type: Compostable films, pouches, bags, labels & mailers for fresh produce, dry food, baked goods, coffee & fashion

EarthFirst Films

EarthFirst Films offers compostable films made from renewable resources. They cater to businesses that need high-performance, eco-friendly packaging films, particularly in the food and consumer goods sectors.

Based in: the US
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Medium to large businesses
Price: Variable based on product and order size
Minimal order: Varies depending on product
Packaging type: Compostable and recyclable films, shrink sleeves, labels, and flexible packaging solutions

Elevate Packaging

Elevate Packaging specializes in providing sustainable & compostable packaging solutions. They cater to businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility and offer a range of customizable options that meet high compostability standards.

Based in: the US
Available in: the US, with international shipping options available
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Moderate to high, depending on customization and order size
Minimal order: Varies by product, with options for both small and bulk orders
Packaging type: Certified compostable packaging solutions, including compostable bags, pouches

Puffy Stuff

Puffy Stuff provides an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional packing peanuts, focusing on sustainable packaging that breaks down naturally without harming the environment.

Based in: the US
Available in: the US
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Varies depending on order size
Minimal order: Varies, but generally accessible for smaller businesses
Packaging type: Biodegradable packing peanuts that are all-natural, static-free, and dissolve in water

PakFactory

PakFactory offers a wide range of custom, eco-friendly packaging solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses across various industries. Their flexible approach allows businesses of all sizes to create sustainable packaging that aligns with their brand identity, whether it’s for retail, food, or consumer goods.

Based in: Canada
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Small to large businesses
Price: Variable depending on customization and order volume
Minimal order: No strict minimum order quantity, but prices decrease with higher volumes
Packaging type: Custom eco-friendly packaging, including kraft boxes, custom bags, sustainable food packaging, and branded boxes

Botanical PaperWorks

Botanical PaperWorks specializes in plantable packaging made from recycled materials embedded with seeds. Once used, the packaging can be planted to grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables.

Based in: Canada
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses, especially those focusing on eco-conscious branding
Price: Variable depending on product type and order quantity
Minimal order: No strict minimum order quantity, but customization and bulk discounts are available
Packaging type: Plantable eco-packaging, including seed paper boxes, bags, and wrapping paper

Better Packaging Co.

Better Packaging Co. targets the e-commerce industry with its compostable mailers and packaging made from sustainable materials like ocean-bound plastics.

Based in: New Zealand
Available in: Globally
Good for: Small to large businesses, including e-commerce companies, fashion brands, and retailers.
Price: Starting at $25 for a pack of 100 compostable mailers.
Minimal order: 100 units
Packaging type: Home compostable mailers, garment bags, recycled plastic mailers, polybags made from corn starch, labels and stickers, padded mailers, etc.

New Zealand/Australia:

R3Pack

R3Pack offers a range of recyclable and compostable packaging made from recycled and renewable materials. They serve businesses that prioritize reducing their environmental footprint with cost-effective, sustainable packaging across various industries.

Based in: New Zealand
Available in: Primarily in New Zealand and Australia
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses, particularly in e-commerce, retail, and fashion sectors
Price: Compostable mailers may start at approximately $0.20-$0.40 per unit for larger orders
Minimal order: 100 units for their compostable mailers
Packaging type: Home compostable mailers, compostable bubble mailers, recyclable paper bags, compostable garment bags, etc.

Econic

Econic provides customizable compostable packaging designed to be both home and commercially compostable. Their solutions are tailored for businesses in the food and beverage industry.

Based in: New Zealand
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Based on customization and order size
Minimal order: Typically requires a minimum order for custom production, specifics may vary
Packaging type: Home compostable and industrial compostable packaging solutions, including ready-made bags and rewind film for form, fill, and seal production lines

Biogone

Biogone specializes in biodegradable and compostable plastics that are designed to break down faster than conventional plastics. Their products are ideal for businesses in consumer goods and retail.

Based in: Australia
Available in: Australia & international locations
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing depending on product and quantity
Minimal order: Low minimum orders, starting at around 100 units
Packaging type: Biodegradable and compostable mailers, bags, and retail packaging

HERO Packaging

HERO Packaging focuses on creating compostable packaging solutions specifically for the eCommerce sector.

Based in: Australia
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses & e-commerce retailers
Price: Prices vary depending on the size and quantity of packaging ordered. A pack of 100 compostable mailers starts at around AUD 44 (USD 28)
Minimal order: Typically around 100 units, but smaller packs may be available for certain products
Packaging type: Compostable mailers, bubble mailers, and garment bags made from plant-based materials like corn starch and PLA (polylactic acid).

UK:

NatureFlex

NatureFlex provides renewable and compostable films made from wood pulp. Their products are widely used in the food industry, offering a sustainable alternative to plastic films without sacrificing performance or shelf life.

Based in: the UK
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Medium to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing based on order size and product type
Minimal order: Varies; typically large orders required
Packaging type: Compostable films and cellulose-based packaging for food and retail

Notpla

Notpla innovates with biodegradable packaging made from seaweed and plants. Their products are a natural fit for food and beverage brands looking to replace single-use plastics with fully biodegradable, compostable options that decompose quickly in the environment.

Based in: the UK
Available in: the UK, Europe, North America
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing based on order size and product type
Minimal order: Varies by product; typically 1000 units or more
Packaging type: Seaweed-based compostable packaging, including sachets, pouches, and takeaway boxes

Flexi-Hex

Flexi-Hex delivers protective packaging solutions made from recycled paper. They are ideal for businesses needing sustainable alternatives to traditional protective materials like bubble wrap, particularly in the luxury goods and fragile item sectors.

Based in: the UK
Available in: the UK, Europe, and North America
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing based on volume and customization
Minimal order: Typically starts at 100 units
Packaging type: Paper-based protective packaging for fragile items (boardsports, electronics, homeware, cosmetics, bottles, etc.)

Tiny Box Company

Tiny Box Company focuses on providing sustainable packaging solutions that prioritize luxury and design while being environmentally friendly. They offer a broad range of packaging options suitable for various businesses.

Based in: the UK
Available in: Worldwide
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Depending on customization and material choice
Minimal order: No minimum order quantity, with options for both small orders and bulk purchasing
Packaging type: Eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging, including gift boxes, jewelry boxes, postal boxes, bags, and accessories like tissue paper and ribbons

Europe:

Vegware

Vegware is a specialist in compostable food packaging made from plant-based materials. Their products are ideal for the food service industry, particularly businesses that need sustainable options that can be commercially composted with food waste.

Based in: Scotland
Available in: Europe, North America
Good for: Small to large-sized businesses
Price: Varies by product; affordable options available
Minimal order: Low minimum orders starting at 500 units
Packaging type: Compostable food service packaging, including cups, cutlery, and containers

Bio4Pack

Bio4Pack offers biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions across various industries, including food and retail. Their products meet stringent environmental standards, making them a reliable choice for businesses needing eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Based in: Germany
Available in: Europe
Good for: Medium to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing depending on the product and volume
Minimal order: Typically 10,000 units
Packaging type: Compostable films, trays, and bags for food packaging

Papair

Papair develops paper-based packaging solutions that are fully recyclable and compostable. They focus on replacing plastic packaging in industries like logistics and shipping, offering lightweight yet durable options that reduce plastic waste.

Based in: Germany
Available in: Europe
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing depending on order size and product type
Minimal order: Typically 500 units or more
Packaging type: Paper-based bubble wrap, mailers, and protective packaging

Sulapac

Sulapac creates premium biodegradable packaging from wood chips and natural binders. Their solutions are perfect for brands in the cosmetics and luxury goods sectors.

Based in: Finland
Available in: Europe, North America, Asia
Good for: Medium to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom quotes
Minimal order: Starting at 10,000 units
Packaging type: Biodegradable packaging for cosmetics and food

Paptic

Paptic produces sustainable packaging materials from renewable wood fibers. Their strong, flexible, and reusable products suit industries needing durable alternatives to plastic, particularly in retail and fashion.

Based in: Finland
Available in: Europe, Asia
Good for: Medium to large-sized businesses
Price: Custom pricing based on product and quantity
Minimal order: Starting at 10,000 units
Packaging type: Wood-fiber-based reusable and recyclable packaging solutions

Mushroom Packaging

Mushroom Packaging uses mycelium-based materials to create biodegradable packaging that can replace plastic foam. Their innovative solutions are perfect for businesses needing protective packaging that’s fully compostable, for electronics or specialty goods.

Based in: Netherlands
Available in: Europe and internationally
Good for (size of business): Small to large businesses
Price: Varies by product and quantity; typically requires a quote
Minimal order: Varies; often requires a minimum order quantity or custom quote
Packaging type: Compostable packaging made from mycelium (mushroom roots) and agricultural waste

Ecovia

Ecovia offers biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions to food and personal care industries.

Based in: Spain
Available in: Europe and internationally
Good for: Small to medium-sized businesses
Price: Varies by product and quantity; requires a quote
Minimal order: Varies; often requires a minimum order quantity
Packaging type: Compostable packaging solutions including bags and wraps made from materials like cornstarch and paper

Biodegradable vs. Compostable

“Biodegradable” means something can break down naturally, but it doesn’t specify how long it will take or the conditions needed. Some materials, like wood, are biodegradable but can take hundreds of years to decompose.

“Compostable,” on the other hand, means a material will break down into soil nutrients within a specific time frame under composting conditions, like heat and moisture. Often, the triggers for the process are heat, humidity, oxygen & microorganisms.

Compostable materials will break down in about 180 days in a home compost and faster, around 90 days, in industrial composting facilities due to higher temperatures.

Things to keep in mind

Higher costs:

The initial investment will be higher, as sustainable materials often cost more than traditional plastics, which can increase production costs. If you are a small business, it can be a bit harder with the higher cost, especially if you have lower purchasing volumes.

Durability issues:

Some compostable materials may not be as durable, potentially leading to product damage or shorter shelf life. Compostable packaging can also require specific storage conditions to prevent early degradation, adding logistical challenges.

Limited composting facilities:

Not all regions have industrial composting facilities, which can limit the effectiveness of compostable packaging if disposed of incorrectly. Compostable packaging needs specific conditions to break down effectively; if disposed of incorrectly, or landfilled, it may not decompose properly and even contaminate recycling streams.

Limited applications:

Some products, particularly those requiring strong barriers against moisture or oxygen, may not be compatible with compostable packaging.

Single-use:

Compostable packaging is still a single-use item, which is hardly ever a sustainable option. Furthermore, the production of compostable materials can still involve significant energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, especially if sourced from distant locations.

Regulatory and certification complexity:

Different regions may have different definitions and standards for compostable and sustainable packaging, complicating global distribution and disposal. Varying standards and certifications can confuse what truly qualifies as compostable or sustainable. Here are some trustworthy certifications: TÜV Austria, BPI (BPI Certified Compostable), DIN CERTCO, Australian Standard AS 4736, and AS 5810.

End of life/Disposal

Understanding the disposal or end-of-life management of packaging is essential in truly embracing sustainability. Just because a product is labeled as compostable or biodegradable doesn’t guarantee it will break down in every environment.

Many compostable materials require specific conditions, like those found in industrial composting facilities, to decompose properly. If these conditions aren’t met, even the greenest packaging might linger in a landfill, just like traditional plastic.

That’s why it’s so important for companies to provide clear disposal instructions to their customers. When people know exactly how to dispose of packaging — whether it should be composted at home, taken to a special facility, or simply recycled — they can ensure that it will break down properly, without polluting our planet.

Summary

There you have it – a list of 27 companies that are leading the way in sustainable packaging. These companies are stepping up with innovative solutions that reduce waste and promote sustainability.

As the push for eco-friendly alternatives grows, these companies are providing various choices that are promising, from compostable and biodegradable materials to innovative, reusable packaging.

Did I miss a company offering sustainable packaging solutions? Let me know in the comments below.