All about Recyclable Packaging Materials

As the number of consumers and mass consumption in Canada grow, the amount of packaging materials that are being used in the market is also rising. Many of these materials are causing a negative impact on the environment and as scrutiny of the environmental practices involved in the packaging industry increases, some traditional items like packing peanuts and Styrofoam are falling by the wayside. This is causing a push for greener and more environmentally responsible packaging options. Additionally, the waste that is involved with packaging supplies and materials are causing a concern that is leading to improved designs from the packaging industry and an increase in the use of recyclable materials.

The most common materials used for packaging are plastic, paper, glass, board, aluminum, and steel. A number of these commonly used packaging materials can now be recyclable. While some plastics can now be recycled, in order to determine whether a specific item is recyclable, it is important to check with the product manufacturer. Traditional plastics and polystyrene are usually recyclable and are used in a variety of products, but the large amounts of oil required to manufacture them is thought to play a major role in global warming. Therefore, in order to reduce your environmental impact in Canada, other options should be considered.

Paper packing materials are some of the best eco-friendly packaging options, as they can be recycled easily in the same manner as other paper products. While paper product packaging materials are just as efficient and effective as foam packaging materials, they are also simple to dispose of. Paper packaging products are lightweight, resilient, and can also absorb moisture. These packaging materials are also commonly produced from recycled paper, and this avoids the cutting down of additional trees to make the products. Paper products also tend to be inexpensive, as they are created from inexpensive materials that can be reused.

Another benefit of paper packaging materials is that they can biodegrade safely in Canadian landfills. Other commonly used packing products that are produced from plastic may not degrade in landfills or can cause toxic products, which can be detrimental to the environment. Many plastics that do degrade will also require hundreds of years to complete the process, unlike recyclable products. This is why choosing paper is a more environmentally friendly option. Paper products degrade quickly and can be disposed of anywhere in Canada and the rest of the world.

7/11/2013