Packaging Advice

The benefits of paper-based packaging

6 mins

With the global demand for recyclable packaging and the growing eco-conscious consumer market, there is little surprise why paper-based packaging is growing in popularity over recent years.


Paper-based packaging can be a responsible choice when it comes to environmentally friendly packaging. It can also provide convenient storage and allows for functional packaging that is appealing and easy to carry.

In this article, we will be exploring the many benefits of paper-based packaging compared to other packaging materials.

Paper packaging is sustainable and better for the environment

Paper-based packaging is favoured for being better for the environment, especially in the eyes of the consumer. In a recent survey, respondents were asked to choose their preferred packaging material. 63% of consumers chose paper due to it being better for the environment and 57% because it is easy to recycle.

In the same survey, consumer attitudes towards plastic packaging were made very clear with 70% of respondents saying they were taking steps to reduce their plastic packaging with 63% of the respondent’s accurately believing plastic is the least recycled material.

Paper is derived from trees that are harvested and re-planted which already makes it the more renewable option. Did you know that with Swiftpak you can re-plant your paper waste with just a click of a button? We do everything we can to support the environment, so we have made it easier for your business to make a positive impact too.


The protection paper packaging provides is just as good

When paper is constructed and designed strategically and effectively, it can withhold weight and pressure just as well as plastic packaging would.

By switching to paper-based packaging to protect your products from breakage, it can also be highly effective and cost-saving for both the packaging distributer and end-consumer. This is because paper-based product materials can usually cost less, and those savings are passed on to your packaging distribution operations.

Using older forms of packaging materials for protection does not have the same support it used to as packing peanuts are not a sustainable product as they are made from Styrofoam which does not biodegrade like paper. By switching to Paper Voidfill instead, you will be providing your products with a cushion that serves just as well for protecting your items whilst being a environmentally friendly solution too.

The same goes for plastic bubble wrap. It may be the most well-known packaging material that protects items from damages, but it isn’t exactly the best option in terms of sustainability. While bubble wrap can be recycled easily, many customers today are increasingly looking for more sustainable and environmentally friendly options when it comes to the packaging they use.

This is where our new paper bubble wrap comes in. Paper bubble wrap is made from 100% recycled paper and features a bubble or honeycomb style pattern over the surface. It protects and cushions fragile goods in transit just as well as traditional bubble wrap would and is a more environmentally friendly solution for those that are more eco-conscious.

Not only is Paper bubble wrap cost-effective due to paper-based materials, but it also has additional benefits:

  • It is lightweight: helps to keep shipping costs as low as possible as well as being transported with less CO2 emissions.
  • It is highly protective: ensures your products remain fully protected until it reaches the end consumer.
  • It allows for easy storage: paper bubble takes up a lot less storage space compared to traditional bubble wrap.

Similarly, we also have our new Paper Wrap, which is another eco-friendly alternative. It’s recyclable due to being made out of 100% die-cut kraft paper and 250m of paper wrap can be stored on a single role making it quick and easy to use!

For more information on our new paper-based packaging products such as paper bubble wrap, please contact us today and we will be happy to help.

Paper packaging has design flexibility

Paper-based packaging allows for better flexibility in layout, shape, and style of a products packaging. This means you can be more creative in terms of the design too as paper is easier to print on. At Swiftpak, we have an in-house packaging designer who has the expertise to create the perfect packaging for your business. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, please contact us today.

In addition to this, paper-based packaging is better for shipping cooling materials as it won’t compromise the integrity of the packaging. It is also possible for paper-based materials to be designed and constructed in a way that is practically waterproof and can be used as coolers that last for several uses.

Take our eco-friendly gel packs for example, the kraft paper they are made from absorbs some of the condense which appears when warming up, keeping products dryer than normal gel packs would. They are much more eco-friendly due to being made from kraft paper as well, so when disposed of through the natural waste stream they produce less pollution than the normal variety.

Paper packaging increases brand perception

In today's world, consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on the environment. This has led to a rise in demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products, including packaging. By using paper-based packaging, your business can demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, which can have a positive impact on your brand perception and customer loyalty.

When utilising sustainable packaging, it sends a message to customers that you care about the environment and are taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint. This message can be particularly powerful for consumers who prioritise sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Why? Customers who share these values are likely to appreciate and support companies that make an effort to reduce their environmental impact.

Paper packaging is versatile

Paper-based packaging offers exceptional versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of products. Whether you're packaging small items, delicate goods, or bulky products, paper packaging can be customised to fit your specific needs. From paper-based void fills, through to custom inserts and more, paper packaging can be easily tailored in terms of size, shape, and design, allowing you to create packaging that perfectly showcases your products, whilst supporting the environment.

green packaging

Paper packaging products from Swiftpak

At Swiftpak, we really care about sustainability and the environment so we do our best to ensure we supply the best paper-based packaging materials that still allow for the same protection that plastic packaging would, but with the benefit of being better for the environment. We have recently launched some new paper-based products including our paper bubble wrap mentioned in this article. To find out more about the paper-based packaging we provide, please contact us to find out more.

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