Eco-Friendly Packaging Is in Fashion: What Does It Mean ...

29 Apr.,2024

 

Eco-Friendly Packaging Is in Fashion: What Does It Mean ...

Eco-friendly packaging is an important piece of the sustainability puzzle, but not all options are created equal. Here’s the low-down on everything from compostable to recyclable packaging, and how you can further reduce the impact of your purchases.

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The plastic packaging problem

In recent years, we’ve come to learn that, contrary to Aqua’s “Barbie Girl” lyrics, “life in plastic” is not fantastic.

Plastic takes decades to decompose, releasing harmful chemicals into the earth and the air in the process and endangering the lives of a wide variety of species, including us.

As more and more people are starting to wake up to the devastating impacts of plastic, many governments have started banning single-use plastics, and many individuals are now switching to more eco-friendly and reusable options, especially when it comes to food packaging.

What about fashion?

It turns out fashion is no stranger to the single-use plastic problem: with the rise of online shopping and the increase in amounts of clothes purchased every year (looking at you, ultra fast fashion), we’ve also seen an increase in plastic packaging used by brands.

From the bag or box your order arrives in, to the individual bags the clothes and accessories are packaged in, our online orders are often full of plastic.

According to some studies, “packaging is the dominant generator of plastic waste, responsible for almost half of the global total.” That’s an enormous (and growing) amount of often non-recyclable waste.

But things are starting to change, and more eco-friendly alternatives are starting to appear.

We’ve talked about our tips for sustainable online shopping before, as we know shopping for ethical and sustainable fashion brands online is sometimes easier—and, in the current situation, even necessary. So today we’re covering sustainable packaging alternatives to look out for the next time you order fashion online.

Compostable packaging

Compostable packaging is made from plant-based or fossil fuel materials and can break down at the end of its life, providing the earth with useful nutrients. However, that doesn’t mean you can dispose of your compostable packaging wherever you like. As the name suggests, it has to be disposed of correctly and be added to your composting bin. Be careful—while all compostable packaging is also biodegradable, the contrary is not necessarily true, so always check the instructions on how to dispose of the packaging correctly. Unfortunately, brands will often try to greenwash here, even going so far as to use the word compostable when they really mean biodegradable. If the brand doesn’t provide specific instructions on the disposal of their packaging, chances are it’s not as simple as it seems.

The good news is some fashion brands have started looking at compostable packaging: New-Zealand-based Maggie Marilyn, for example, packages her garments using ComPlast, a cassava-based compostable bag. The brand goes even further by using compostable bags to ship wholesale items. The bags are made by The Better Packaging Company from corn starch and synthetic polymers.

German brand LANIUS has also been using compostable bags, and Finisterre uses marine safe garment bags and mailbags made from unbleached kraft pulp, both of which are compostable.

But creating and sourcing compostable bags is still time-consuming, costly, and there is a lack of processes and systems in place to make it a standard across the fashion industry. We look forward to seeing more and more brands jump on board to reduce their plastic footprint as this option becomes more accessible.

Recycled packaging

We’re also seeing a lot of brands—ethical or not—saying they use cardboard, recycled, or recyclable packaging when shipping online orders. One label to look out for here is the Forest Stewardship Council—while it’s not quite as good as compostable and biodegradable options, it ensures that the cardboard used comes from responsibly managed forests.

LANIUS, for example, offers the possibility to choose an already used carton as a shipping option for your order. All packaging materials they use, from cardboard to stickers, are also carefully selected.

Reformation is also paving the way for other sustainable brands: it uses plastic-free and 100% recycled paper products, as well as recycled paper hangers.

Another of our faves, Whimsy + Row, sends out products in 100% recycled and recyclable boxes that are pretty enough to reuse, too.

Fashion For Good has also launched a pilot in partnership with Adidas, C&A, Kering, Otto Group, and PVH Corp., “The Circular Polybag Pilot”, to reduce the use and impact of polybags in the fashion industry. The pilot is currently looking at a solution to manufacture recycled polybag, using a high percentage of post-consumer polybag waste.

Reusable packaging

A growing number of companies are also encouraging customers to reuse packaging and are offering easily reusable alternatives to traditional packaging.

RePack, for example, is looking to reduce waste in the fashion industry by providing retailers with reusable and returnable packaging. Amongst Repack’s customers is one of Good On You’s favourites: MUD Jeans. RePack’s packaging comes in three adjustable sizes which are designed to last at least 20 cycles. The customers can easily return the packaging for free by post and can be offered a reward for doing so.

Other brands are also shipping their products in reusable bags, such as HARA, which sends its sustainable underwear in beautiful OEKOTEX100 bamboo bags. These can be reused for storing things or to organise your belongings when travelling.

The plastic you don’t see

Even if some brands are doing their best to offer sustainable packaging options, there is likely still plastic packaging further up the supply chain that is less obvious to consumers.

In fact, items are often shipped to the brand’s distribution centre, shops, or to other parts of the supply chain in plastic packaging, to prevent them from being damaged.

In 2014, Patagonia experimented with completely eliminating the use of polybags. But the results were disappointing and the brand quickly realised it wasn’t possible to ship products without a plastic polybag as doing so damaged items to the point that they became unsellable. Patagonia concluded that a damaged garment has a greater environmental cost than the polybags and Patagonia is, to this day, still looking for an alternative.

Packaging reduction

While the sustainable packaging movement is a commendable one and all the options mentioned above are certainly better than plastic, another important pillar in the sustainability of supply chains and shipment to remember is packaging reduction. It’s great that brands are using compostable or recycled materials, but this should be happening alongside reducing the amount needed altogether. All too often, online orders (or even supply chain orders) are packaged in far more layers than strictly necessary, and a great step in reducing the environmental footprint of a brand would be the elimination of this excess plastic.

What you can do

Not buying or shopping less is always the most sustainable way to go, but if you need to buy something online and want to reduce your environmental footprint then we recommend looking for the sustainable packaging options mentioned above.

Of course, shopping physically, whether for new or second hand items, is also a good option to reduce the amount of packaging and single-use plastic. You can ask for a paper bag or, even better, bring your own reusable bag. If the activist in you is itching to have a say here, consider contacting brands you know to use unsustainable packaging practices and call for change.

Let's save the world with Biodegradable Bags

Let's save the world with Biodegradable Bags

Robyn Wike | August 24, 2023

Ensuring the well-being of our planet must unequivocally remain our utmost priority at this critical juncture. As esteemed individuals, we must acknowledge the undeniable truth that our shared existence on this planet is precipitating an alarming degradation at an increasingly rapid pace. As we navigate the path ahead, it is incumbent upon each and every one of us to shoulder the mantle of responsibility, both for our own well-being and that of our peers. Together, we must unite our efforts to combat the pressing challenges of climate change and pollution.


The reduction of plastic bag usage is a pivotal aspect of our collective efforts to mitigate the detrimental impact we impose upon the environment. Optimize expenditure on plastic bags at the grocery store by transitioning to the utilization of reusable, biodegradable garbage bags. By strategically phasing out the utilization of plastic bags and adopting the implementation of compostable bags, your esteemed city shall not only achieve substantial savings in annual cleanup expenditures but also effectively alleviate the strain on non-renewable resources.

 

Given the well-documented fact that the average lifespan of a plastic bag is a mere 12 minutes, it becomes effortlessly discernible to ascertain the magnitude of plastic bags that necessitate retrieval from our streets. If one possesses a domesticated animal and engages in the practice of discarding its excrement within plastic receptacles, it is imperative to acknowledge that such actions may inadvertently yield adverse consequences, despite one's well-intentioned beliefs.

What is Sustainable Fashion?

Sustainable fashion encompasses the realm of environmentally conscious and socially accountable apparel and accessories. However, it is imperative that we expand our perspective on sustainable fashion beyond the confines of mere manufacturing or the acquisition of new products. Henceforth, the term "accessible" shall be incorporated. 

As Tote Bag Factory, sustainability marketing campaigns have ingeniously instilled in us the notion that we possess the power to procure our path towards sustainability. As forward-thinking individuals, we have the power to strategically acquire resources in a more sustainable manner. It is a must to recognize that the pursuit of sustainable fashion does not necessarily entail the acquisition of brand-new garments.

You may be aware of the most excellent sustainable apparel labels, but where can you turn to shop for accessories that are mindful of their impact on the environment? If you want to build a sustainable wardrobe, it is just as important to know where to head for your next bag purchase, whether you are looking for a summery straw tote, a classic faux-leather cross-body, or an elegant bucket bag.

When choosing decisions that are better for the environment regarding our wardrobes, it is essential to conduct thorough research on a brand, gaining an understanding of the process and materials utilized by the company.

For more information, please visit HuaWei.

A Biodegradable Bag Is…

In the realm of sustainability, an entity or individual is deemed to possess the coveted attribute of being "biodegradable" when it possesses the inherent ability to undergo decomposition into more elementary components, all without the need for any form of human intervention. In an intriguing twist of fate, both you and your esteemed circle of acquaintances, encompassing your cherished friends, beloved family members, cherished pets, and even your flourishing botanical companions, possess the remarkable quality of being biodegradable. In our day-to-day existence, a multitude of objects are crafted from materials that lack the ability to naturally decompose. That implies they do not typically undergo decomposition. Given the chemical constituents employed in their fabrication, these products possess an exceptional capacity for resilience, albeit not necessarily indicative of a favorable attribute.

The issue at hand is further exacerbated by the undeniable reality that upon the eventual degradation of non-biodegradable artifacts, which occurs over the course of several centuries, the entirety of the hazardous components contained within said artifacts shall inevitably seep into the earth. When evaluating the long-term implications on our environment, it becomes abundantly evident that the utilization of single-use plastics is unequivocally untenable

Nevertheless, it is imperative to note that biodegradable polymers are frequently derived from plant-based sources. It is imperative to note that the rate at which they deteriorate aligns closely with that of food waste, although exceptions may arise. Composting presents an exceptional opportunity to harness the potential of biodegradable materials. The conventional approach to composting involves the act of combining plant debris and food waste within a receptacle, subsequently amalgamating them. However, the process of procuring the necessary constituents for compostable thrash bags can prove to be quite a demanding endeavor.

The Difference Between Biodegradable Bags and Compostable Bags

In the current market landscape, there exists a plethora of compostable plastic bags that have been meticulously engineered to undergo degradation within the confines of a commercial composting facility. Landfills are hereby deemed unsuitable as a viable option. Our exceptional environments offer the optimal conditions necessary for the decomposition process, including temperature, humidity, airflow, and various other variables.

In our pursuit of sustainable solutions, we have developed biodegradable bags that are specifically designed to undergo decomposition through the action of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. There is a potential for these bags to exhibit a reduced footprint in landfills compared to conventional plastic bags. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that not all biodegradable plastics exhibit the desired degradation properties within landfills. Henceforth, it is imperative to meticulously peruse labels with utmost diligence to ascertain the biodegradability of your esteemed products.

Given the prevailing practice of disposing a significant portion of our waste in landfills, it would be prudent for us to consider transitioning to the utilization of plastic bags that possess the ability to decompose within such environments. Plastic is synergistically blended with an organic component that strategically entices bacteria, thereby culminating in the creation of these exceptional articles. Due to this inherent characteristic, they exhibit a remarkable 90% accelerated degradation rate compared to conventional plastics. That's it; we shall undoubtedly minimize our environmental footprint to a significant extent.

Why Should You Use Biodegradable Bags

Transitioning to utilizing biodegradable bags might be complicated. Even though there isn't much complexity involved, the abundance of options can make it tough to choose a favorite. Additionally, there are numerous false beliefs concerning biodegradable thrash bags. Consensus says, for instance, that their degradation rates are consistent with theory. That's not how most "bio-friendly" trash can liners work, despite popular belief.

To have a closer look, compost bags are made from materials that can be broken down naturally by microorganisms. This means that they have less time to harm the environment after disposal and have less impact on the environment compared to long-lasting plastics.

Traditional plastic bags can remain undegradable in nature for many years. This can cause environmental pollution and waste management problems. By using biodegradable bags, the risk of accumulation of plastic waste and pollution of natural habitats is reduced. The use of biodegradable bags can also increase environmental awareness as part of a sustainable lifestyle.

They Are Toxic Free

When it comes to the carbon footprint, the first thing one should check is the toxic materials. Because biodegradable bags contain no chemicals, you can experiment with them freely. If you must store raw meat in biodegradable bags or just want to chew on one out of boredom, you can do so without fear of toxicity.

To make compost, a mixture of food scraps and organic material that is used to enrich the soil, biodegradable bags are put to intriguing use. Because biodegradable trash bags are made entirely of natural materials, they decompose when added to a compost pile, which, ironically enough, improves the compost's overall nutritional value.

They Breakdown Faster Than Plastic

The rate at which biodegradable polymers decompose is noticeably quicker than conventional plastics, even though biodegradable plastics do not decompose as quickly as one might think. For instance, a plastic bag that is just used once can live for up to a thousand years, whereas a bag made of biodegradable material will decompose within a couple of months.

In addition, the wasted material can be used in compost production, which is a form of environmental stewardship that benefits the world around us.

It is not difficult to recycle biodegradable plastics. Despite the widespread perception, a significant number of companies falsely market the biodegradability of their wares, even if this is not necessarily the case. Even though they must either be recycled or thrown away in a landfill, these so-called "biodegradable" bags have a much higher propensity to decompose when they are put through the recycling process.

However, the use of eco-friendly biodegradable trash bags, which are designed to decompose when subjected to sunlight, wind, water, or enzymes found in recycling components, still contributes to a positive change for the environment.

They Cover Less Landfill Space

Common questions inquire about where these plastic materials go. When plastics are thrown out, they are normally disposed of in one of two ways: either they are burned to make energy, which is a dreadful practice since it results in the emission of unfathomable quantities of harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, or they are tossed into a landfill to degrade. Both of these options are extremely detrimental to the environment. Both of these processes have a significant and deleterious impact on the natural world.

Landfills, on the other hand, are infamous for taking up a substantial amount of space. It is common knowledge that space, like a great many other things that we have become accustomed to and learnt to take for granted, is becoming an increasingly expensive commodity. This is true for both commercial and residential real estate. Plastics have a sluggish rate of decomposition; hence, if we can eliminate the need to keep them, it will be helpful to us in the long run. Plastics have a slow decomposition rate.

However, there is a silver lining to this story. In order to hasten the process of biodegradation, some landfills purposefully introduce additional water as well as particular microorganisms and bacteria. This, however, comes at a high cost; in the end, you will have to pay for it with money that is taken out of your wallet in the form of taxes. Keeping landfills in good condition also comes at a very high financial cost. In addition to having to pay for the land itself, you will also be responsible for paying for any necessary repairs as well as any other fees that may arise.

Saving Money By Using Biodegradable Garbage Bags

Don't you have a place in your house where you keep all the plastic bags you don't want? Some of them might come in handy at some point, but there are always too many. So, instead of collecting plastic grocery bags as a hobby, which is inconvenient, expensive, and bad for the environment, try using reusable compostable thrash bags.

If you use a biodegradable trash bag instead of a single-use plastic bag, you will save a significant amount of money over time. You are not only cutting down on the amount of money that your town needs to spend every year on cleaning up, but you are also cutting down on the number of nonrenewable resources that are required to create plastic bags. When one considers that a single plastic bag is used for a mere 12 minutes on average, it is not difficult to visualize the sheer volume of plastic bags that need to be removed from the street.

In an effort to lead customers in the right direction, many retailers have started charging higher prices for plastic bags than they previously did. When you go food shopping with your biodegradable bag, you may find that certain establishments do not charge you extra for plastic bags, while other stores operate under a different set of guidelines. If you bring your own bag, some of them will give you a discount or other bonuses, which will make you pleased. Some of them will even let you keep the bag. Therefore, they wish to put an end to the conduct rather than penalize it. They provide incentives in return for behaviors that are beneficial to the health of the environment.

By doing this, you can save both money and a significant amount of storage space. Consider the implications of that for a moment. At home, in your vehicle, and at the office, bags can take up a significant amount of space. You could fit a great deal more crucial items in there if you wanted to.

In an instant, you would have the satisfaction of knowing that you have taken a step toward lessening the influence that you have on the environment. Plastic bags are consistently ranked in the top 10 most frequent items discovered on beaches and in oceans.

Manufacturing Them Consume Less Energy

Although the production of biodegradable plastics does undoubtedly require higher costs, in the long run, it is money that is put to better use. When the expenses of cleanup are factored in, in addition to the negative effects that biodegradable plastic items have on the environment, the decision to use biodegradable plastic products will unquestionably show itself to be the one that is more environmentally responsible and prudent.

When compared to the production of regular plastics, the quantity of energy required to produce biodegradable plastics is significantly lower. For instance, the manufacture of a polymer produced from corn consumes sixty-five percent less energy than the production of a comparable polymer made from petroleum. This difference in energy consumption is due to the fact that corn is a renewable resource. Finding, procuring, and transporting hydrocarbons are not required in the manufacturing of bioplastics, and none of these procedures are involved in the production of bioplastics.

Because of this, there will be less of a need for fossil fuels, which will ultimately result in a reduction in the amount of pollution that is caused to the environment. In addition, there are 68% fewer greenhouse gas emissions released throughout the entire production process, which is a big improvement for the environment.

On A Final Note…

Despite the fact that there are a lot of things to think about, using compostable bags will ultimately make your life easier. Plastic is a material with both positive and negative attributes. Despite the revolutionary effects that plastic has had on modern life, we cannot create a civilization that is sustainable over the long term if it is based on plastic. Even though it's easy to dismiss how plastic bags harm the environment and refuse to modify poor habits, switching to biodegradable bags is a simple change that would reduce the demand for and waste of plastic items. This shift would also lower the number of plastic things that end up in landfills. 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website biodegradable garment bags.