Eco-Friendly Packaging Ideas to Get Inspiration

Eco-friendly packaging ideas not only reduce carbon footprints but also maintain the faith of customers into your products. Here are a few of them.

Billions of tons of waste are going to landfills and oceans every year. This will turn our land and water into dumping ground over the years.

That’s why today’s consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious.

They are also more aware of product packaging than before. The customers are more likely to feel connected with that brand with the sustainability of the practice which secures its position in their minds. The customers are likely to buy again and remain loyal to the company.

This has prompted companies to use materials and methods that have a minimum impact on the environment.

Therefore, it is worth if your organization integrate its packaging strategy with eco-friendly and sustainable practices. However, some might not agree as it is expensive and hassling. But there are some key advantages—besides reducing carbon footprints—to go green.

And here are some exciting ways of packaging your products in an eco-friendly way.

Paper Bottles:

Ecologic, a Californian company, really deserves a pat on the back for this wonderful idea. They have produced paper bottles from recyclable materials. The outer shells are manufactured from recycled newspaper and cardboard. The recycled newspaper hides a thin, plastic recycled liner inside.

Eco-Friendly Light Bulb Packaging:

It is quite frustrating to go through too much unnecessary packaging inside the box. Well, an eco-friendly light bulb packaging for GE bulb is a fresh change. It is made of a single strip of recyclable cardboard and protects the bulb while displaying.

Reusable Bag:

Puma has introduced a reusable bag that is made from raw materials. According to the company’s claim, the manufacturing process consumed less than 40% of water, energy, and fuel compared to traditional bag manufacturing process.

Carton Wine:

Wine boxes are generally not appealing. However, it can’t be denied that they are an eco-friendly option. YB Wines has introduced its wine in carton believing that each box reduces the carbon footprint of the average bottle of wine in half.

Leaf Plates:

Leaf Republic has made its packaging products from leaves. The lid is made from recycled plastic or bioplastic, while a three-layer natural bowl is made of leaves, waterproof leaf paper, and leaves. No synthetic additives, glue or coloring have been used. The bowl is simply biodegradable.

Plantable Packaging:

Pangea Organics is known for creating 100% plant-based beauty products. However, the company has taken a giant leap in this context. The packaging can now grow trees.

They have “planted” organic seeds like basil and amaranth into the boxes so that when the customer soak the box in water after taking out the product and plant it in the earth, the plant will grow.

So you must have seen how innovation is rapidly changing the packaging industry. This is also the need of time as customers are more inclining towards the company doing sustainability. What do you think? Please let us know by commenting below.

Some Exciting Things You Can Do Today with Paper Bags

From ripening the fruits, wrapping the gifts and cleaning to serving snacks, there are many exciting reuses of a paper bag.

After your shopping spree or a run to a grocery store, you must have left with plenty of paper bags. Like most homeowners, you consider them waste and dispose of them off as soon as you remove the products. But have you ever thought you can do great things with these paper bags?

From ripening the fruits, wrapping the gifts and cleaning to serving snacks, there are many exciting reuses of a paper bag. And here we have explained them.

For Speeding up the Fruit Ripening:

Paper bags are a great way to ripe some kinds of fruits like tomatoes, pears, peaches, and avocados. All you need to keep the fruit inside, roll the top of the bag closed, and place it on your counter for 48 hours (2 days). Over time, the ethylene gas will be released from the fruits, and the paper bag will trap the gas inside which will let it ripen faster. This effect can’t be achieved with a plastic bag as they also lock in moisture and make the fruit to rot.

For Cleaning Windows:

Papers are a great way to clean mirror surfaces. Most papers are made of dense fibers without any solid or scratching materials like calcium carbonate and silica. Spray the window with cleaner and rub paper bag in circular motions with your paper bag. Make sure to absorb all the liquid. Use another paper to wipe the screen horizontally and then vertically to remove the streaks as well as to absorb the liquid.

For Serving Snacks:

There was a good old time when a packet of chips was the all-time snack to die for. Paper bags can be a great way to serve a snack at any gathering or party. They are especially great for popcorn and potato chips. Kids will love it as they have their food served in individual packages. And adults are less likely to mind when their finger foods are conveniently packed into individual servings either. It is a great way for lazybones who love to throw house parties and want to avoid the hassle of washing so many serving bowls once the party gets over.

For Wrapping Gifts:

Paper bags can make a great gift wrapping ideas. All you need to cut the bag so you can lay it out flat, and wrap your present up. Give it a finishing touch by wrapping a piece of gorgeous twine around it.

Miscellaneous Uses:

Use them to collect kitchen waste and compost items; dump out the food scraps and then tear up the bag to go directly into the compost pile as well when it’s time to compost.
Use them as a tote if they have handles.
Line the trash can with it. Toss the trash into the bin without removing the bag as a liner.
Use them in your art projects.

So these are some great uses of a paper bag. What do you think? Want to say something else? Please let us know by commenting below.

Twist Ties: A Cute Strip of Plastic around Your Bread Bag!

Read on here why twist ties are baker’s favorite when it comes to sealing a bread bag.

You must have seen those twist ties on the bags of bread. It is basically a thin strip of plastic and is used to secure the openings of bags for sliced bread, hot dog rolls, and hamburger rolls.

Here is a cold yet informative definition from Wikipedia

“A twist tie is a metal wire that is encased in a thin strip of paper or plastic and is used to tie the openings of bags, such as garbage bags or bread bags. It is also called garden twist wire. A twist tie is used by wrapping it around the item to be fastened, then twisting the ends together (thus the name).”

Why Twist Tie is Baker’s Favorite?

It is quite frustrating for customers when it comes to opening the packaging. Some may end up destroying the bags. Then, it is equally difficult to close the bag after removing the slices. That’s why this ordinary strip of plastic can be really useful in this scenario. Once you take a roll out of the bag, it is easy to reseal the bag with an easy twist.

They are counted among one of the most consumer-oriented bag closures for bread and bakery products. It is fair to say that it is one of the easiest methods to “lock and unlock” your bag of bread.

Why Twist Ties When We Have Plastic Tabs?

Plastic tabs are commonly used methods and can be re-used. However, they are less effective to protect the integrity of a baked product. This is because these tags are likely to loosen within the closure once the bag inserted through the gate. As a result, the twist becomes undone and allows unwanted airflow and staling of the baked product.

What Does Their Color Mean?

Another striking feature of these twist ties is their color. Have you ever noticed they come in 5 colors—Blue, Green, Red, White, and Yellow.

The color tells about the day the bread was baked on.

Blue means the bread was baked on Monday.

Green means the bread was baked on Tuesday.

Red means baked on Thursday.

White means baked on Friday.

Yellow means baked on Saturday.

What about Wednesday and Sunday? Well, the bakeries are usually closed on these two days.

So you must have understood the importance of twist ties when it comes to

the baked products for freshness. What do you think? Let us know by commenting below.

What Lead Global Packaging Industry to $980 Million Mark by 2022

The packaging industry will touch the $980 million mark by 2022, thanks to its steady growth rate of 2.9% every year.

So what factors lead the industry to this enormous growth?

It may be due to changing lifestyles which in turn has created huge demand for unconventional packaging products across the various segments of the packaging industry.

Packaging companies are required to expand their lineup as well as offering multiple product lines to meet the rising demands of their customers. Major growth factors include technology advancement, complex product production and heavy investments into research and development.

Here are the factors that have contributed to the huge growth of the packaging industry.

Ever Increasing Demand for Blister Packaging:

Blister packaging is one of the key factors behind this enormous growth over the years. Counted among one of the most commonly used packaging products for consumer goods, foods and OTC drugs, demand for these simple yet durable products will only increase demand over the years.

After all, blister packaging offers strong protection from damages, humidity, and contamination.

Explosive Growth of Flexible Packaging in GCC Region:

GCC region or Gulf Cooperation Council is composed of six Middle Eastern nations like the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman. These nations have seen the huge demand for flexible packaging over the years. In fact, the market for flexible packaging products in the GCC region has been estimated at US$1.6 Billion.

Flexible packaging is made from flexible and easy to manipulate materials lacking hard structure. Unlike plastics, they are not hard and can be shaped to the contour of the products contained within. From pouches, liners, aluminum foil, bags and pouches, flexible packaging is available in many types.

There is a huge demand for flexible packaging in these Middle Eastern nations due to the boom in the industries related to retail items, end-user products, OTC drugs, and perishables. The other driving factors are ever increasing urbanization, settling of expats, and changes in food consumption. And the biggest one is the skyrocketing growth of supermarkets in these nations.

Huge Demand for Traditional Packaging Materials:

Besides blister packaging and flexible packaging, the traditional packaging materials have always been in constant demand, including paper, aluminum, and glass. Amidst the arrival of new packaging, conventional packaging is continued to be staples.

The Rise of Luxury Packaging:

Luxury packaging, as the name implies, is used for luxury brands and make them look expensive. It unleashes the vibes of quality, impact, and sophistication. Apart from having aesthetic appeal, this packaging type is required to be highly functional.

Luxury packaging is expected to go as higher as 9.9 billion tons with a growth of 3.1%.

Inclination towards Sustainable Packaging:

According to one study, sustainable packaging can be USD 400 million by 2024. Also known as green packaging market, the growing end-users’ concerns are behind this growth. The packaging is defined as “the development and use of packaging which results in improved sustainability. This involves increased use of life cycle inventory and life cycle assessment to help guide the use of packaging which reduces the environmental impact and ecological footprint.”

Today’s consumers are aware of environmental concerns, encouraging them to buy eco-friendly products. If your product comes in sustainable packaging, informed customers will be more likely to buy it.

Benefits of Reusable Tote Bags for Businesses

benefits of tote bags — Image source http://flewov.pw

Here are some striking benefits of using reusable tote bags for your business.

From crowdfunding, experimental marketing to personalisation, the modern business scenario has been transformed by several trends over the years. However, all these trends are important to stay competitive and win over more customers.

One of those important trends is to become a sustainable or eco-friendly business. This is because today’s customers are more aware of environmental concerns. They prefer to buy from the businesses known for their eco-friendly practices.

No wonder why many businesses prefer to highlight their “go green” side. However, action speaks louder than words.

How will you make your customers feel that you’re really an “eco-friendly” brand?

Why not offer them reusable tote bags instead of plastic carry bags?

From a business perspective, these bags are reliable, eco-friendly, and reusable. From a customer’s viewpoint, these products are durable, multipurpose and can be used in all ways. This way, a business gets the opportunity to advertise in an eco-friendly way, and the consumers pass on that message with each use.

Here are some striking benefits of using reusable tote bags for your business.

Adding to Your Business Image:

As we have told earlier that customers are more inclining towards eco-friendly business. Giving your products in reusable tote bags will draw them closer to your brand. It shows the fact that your business believes in sustainable practices and recycling. It also promotes the belief that your business believes in going green.

These are some of the reasons for which brands need to offer reusable tote bags with every purchase. You need to choose the right design for the bag and go for quality materials for the custom shopping bags. The bags will be used time and again and each time consumers use it, it will remind them of your brand. You can choose the right combination and attractive designs for your bag. Make sure to keep the handle of bag durable enough and consumers should be comfortable enough while carrying it.

Being Reusable for a Longer Period:

Reusable tote bags can be used for a longer period, making them a great item for daily use. People can carry them to a workplace or even to casual events like weekend getaways and picnic. They come really handy to carry important belongings on the go. Plus, these bags can hold groceries without getting ripped off. Similarly, any mess or spill inside the bag is supposed to be minimized.

Many renowned businesses have started giving away shopping bags to shoppers with every purchase.

Brand Promotion:

Marketing is as essential as production. No wonder why many businesses spend a lot of money on brand awareness. Reusable tote bags with logo can be given to customers with every purchase. In this way, it is a great way to advertise your business. Businesses these days opt for ways to advertise and providing custom tote bag with logo to your customers is one of the effective ways.

Parting Words:

Reusable tote bags are beneficial for your business from all sides. While customers get a durable product that can be used in many ways, your brands gain exposure with strategic messaging of your choice, and our mother earth gets a bit cleaner from the waste caused by plastic.

At iSell Packaging, we offer durable and attractive reusable bags for your brand. Get in touch with us today to go through our options, so you can start an initiative to provide your customer something sustainable, something durable.

Great Quotes on Environment, Sustainability, and Recycling

Recycling the 1 can Save Energy to run a tv for two hours — greatdanesgogreen.com

The environment is an important part of the survival of living organisms. However, it can’t be denied that our environment is being suffocated by pollution, contamination, and toxins. But the environment is not the only one to suffer. We are getting many health diseases like cancer and respiratory diseases due to air pollution. Contaminated water causes typhoid, diarrhea and other diseases. The exploit of natural resources has been on the rise.

Whether it’s a business or an individual, we all need to practice sustainability and recycling to protect our environment.

To get inspired, here are some great quotes…

1. “If it can’t be reduced, reused, repaired, rebuilt, refurbished, refinished, resold, recycled, or composted, then it should be restricted, designed or removed from production.” – Pete Seeger, Folk Singer & Social Activist

2. “If we’re destroying our trees and destroying our environment and hurting animals and hurting one another and all that stuff, there’s got to be very powerful energy to fight that. I think we need more love in the world. We need more kindness, more compassion, more joy, more laughter. I definitely want to contribute to that.” – Ellen DeGeneres

3. “When all the world appears to be in a tumult, and nature itself is feeling the assault of climate change, the seasons retain their essential rhythm. Yes, fall gives us a premonition of winter, but then, winter, will be forced to relent, once again, to the new beginnings of soft greens, longer light, and the sweet air of spring.” – Madeleine M. Kunin

4.“If we want to address global warming, along with the other environmental problems associated with our continued rush to burn our precious fossil fuels as quickly as possible, we must learn to use our resources more wisely, kick our addiction, and quickly start turning to sources of energy that have fewer negative impacts.” – David Suzuk

5. “What’s it like to envision the ten-thousand-year environmental impact of tossing a plastic bottle into the trash bin, all in the single second it takes to actually toss it? Or the ten-thousand-year history of the fossil fuel being burned to drive to work or iron a shirt? It may be environmentally progressive, but it’s not altogether pleasant.” – Douglas Rushkoff

6. “If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer. But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen.” – Henry David Thoreau

7. “Nature is not simply a technical or economical resource, and human beings are not mere numbers. To suggest that one can somehow align all the squabbling institutions of science, environmental management, government and diplomacy in an alliance of convenience to regulate the global climate seems to me optimistic.” – James Buchan

8. “There is a great need for the introduction of new values in our society, where bigger is not necessarily better, where slower can be faster, and where less can be more.” – Gaylord Nelson

9. “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” – Robert Swan, Author

10. “Consuming less means throwing away less, while reusing things actually helps to save the planet as well as the pennies.” – Sheherazade Goldsmith

11. “Water and air, the two essential fluids on which all life depends, have become global garbage cans.” – Jacques-Yves Cousteau

12. “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” – Edward Everett Hale

What to Know About Sustainable Packaging

Wikipedia defines sustainable packaging as “the development and use of packaging which results in improved sustainability. This involves increased use of life cycle inventory and life cycle assessment to help guide the use of packaging which reduces the environmental impact and ecological footprint.”

Simply put, it is the type of packaging which is prepared ethically with the minimal use of resources using clean production technologies. It should be safe and healthy for communities throughout its life cycle. This way, it ensures low impact on both energy consumption and on the environment as well.

A sustainable packaging goes through these major criteria…

It should be safe and healthy for people throughout its usage.
It should be sourced, manufactured and recycled using renewable energy.
It should be physically designed to optimize energy and materials.

What are the Best Sustainable Packaging Materials?

Chill Buddy:

It’s a lightweight insulation material offering a green alternative to EPS foam. It is widely used in cooler bags.

Micro-fibrillated cellulose:

It is made of plant waste and lighter than carbon fiber or glass. It is praised for its strength. It also creates a moisture and oxygen barrier.

Aqueous Barrier Coatings:

They are an effective alternative to laminated packaging materials. Unlike laminated structures, they are sustainable and recyclable.

Paper and Cardboard:

Paper and cardboard are recyclable, reusable and biodegradable.

Also Read: Benefits of Biodegradable Plastic Bags

Corn starch:

Products made from corn starch are biodegradable and are ideal for products which have limited use, like takeaway food.

Bubble Wrap:

This is one of the popular packaging materials. They are made from recycled polythene.

Also read : Interesting Facts about Bubble Wrap

Biodegradable Plastic:

It is a common material being used in plastic bags and other items like envelopes. It starts to decompose when it is exposed to daylight and is a great alternative to traditional plastics.

What are the Benefits of Sustainable Packaging?

Minimizing Carbon Footprints:

Well, this one is no brainer. Since sustainable packaging is made from renewable products using energy efficient methods, it is useful to minimize the negative impacts of carbon on the environment.

Carbon footprint is the emission carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds due to the usage of fossil fuels.

Providing More Space for Transportation:

Shifting to sustainable packaging also help you make more space. This includes space required for shipping and transportation, letting you deliver more products than you had prior while still minimizing your shipping costs. This way, you can save transportation cost in the long run.

Being Free of Toxins and Allergens:

Most green packaging options are free of toxins and allergens. Not only such products are great for the safety and health of consumers, but it also encourages them to buy your products. After all, today’s customers are more concerned with what products are made out of and their health effects as well.

Consuming Less Energy:

It takes less energy, water resources and emissions to manufacture sustainable packaging. This way, it reduces solid waste, water usage, and energy.

Building Positivity about Brand:

Needless to say, it will drive your sales and spread positivity about your brand.

Being Disposable:

Another benefit is that sustainable packaging can be easily recycled or disposed of.

PARTING WORDS:

So you must have understood about sustainable packaging. They can be reused and recycled, meaning that they won’t go to landfills and oceans. Secondly, they have lower carbon footprints and are made of eco-friendly products thereby protecting the environment.

What do you think? Do you use sustainable packaging for your business? Let us know by commenting below.

Self-Heating Packaging: Enjoy the Convenience of Warm Meal Anywhere

Whether it’s camping, outdoor excursion or a long drive, there are the times when we realize the importance of a warm meal. These are the occasions when either we don’t have a heating source or don’t want to have the hassle of heating food.

Enter self-heating packaging! The let you enjoy the convenience of a warm meal anywhere.

As the name suggests, self-heating packaging heats up your food without requiring external heat sources like fire or hot water. It is fair to say that they are your on-the-go stove!

So how they work?

Well, that’s not magic.

They are the pouches which contain food grade iron, magnesium powder, and salt. Insert your food container into the pouch. On pouring the water over them, the combination releases enough heat to warm a pre-cooked meal 100 degrees in nearly 10 minutes. Generally, these pouches are for single use only.

Self-heating bowls are the sophisticated form of this technology. The exothermic reaction is activated on pressing a button outside of the bowl. It will heat your food in 5-10 minutes.

A self-heating can is another breakthrough product that looks like a common food can. It contains dual chambers to support heating technology.

The inner chamber accommodates the food or drinks while the outer chamber holds chemicals which create an exothermic reacting when combined. A ring on the can is pulled to heat the contents of the can. It breaks the barrier which lets the water mix with the chemicals for the reaction.

Originally developed for the army in the 1990s, these products are being developed for the outdoor enthusiasts, business travelers and people who are always in a hurry.

Also Read: Types of Edible Food Packaging to Watch For

Major Projects of Self Heating Packages:

Nestle UK started the project of self-heating can for prepared coffee in 2001. The company was looking to target the “on-the-go” customers with these cans. They are said to produce a chemical reaction between water and quicklime that were contained in separate compartments in the base of the can. The coffee can be heated up to 60°C (140°F). However, the project was canceled by Nestlé aborted in 2004.

Another major project was initiated by OnTech’ that launched the Hillside Beverages in 2004 in self-heating cans. It used to produce heat being generated from the lime/water reaction for producing 60ºC (145ºF) in six minutes. However, this product went defunct in 2008.

Who Can Use Self Heating Packaging?

Campers and Travelers:

Self-heating packages are great for campers and people who are always on the run. They are really useful if you don’t have a stove or campfire to prepare food outdoors.

Lazy Bums:

Let’s admit it. Sometimes we are too lazy to go to the kitchen to prepare food, let along heating water for instant food. In this scenario, having a self-heating package or pot by your side is a great relief.

From soup, pasta, and noodles to dried veggies, it will heat up your instant food within 10-15 minutes. You don’t need to go to microwave or flame up your stove.

Young Mothers:

It also comes handy for the young parents looking for hot milk for their babies on the run. A Dutch company has made a self-heating pack for semi-liquid baby foods. The pack contains a milk powder dispenser, baby nipple, and water. The healing element can be activated by pushing a button.

What are the Benefits of Self Heating Packaging?

They are lightweight and portable and easy to fit into your backpack.
They are safe as well as ready to use. There is no release of dangerous gases as the operation is completely flame-less while the temperature is restricted within the limits.
They are safe for disposal with household trash and can be recycled.

Understanding the Different Type of Packaging

The packaging is as important as the product it contains. Besides protecting your products, packaging aids branding as it carries logo and details.

Here we have rounded up some common type of packaging materials.

Carton Boxes:

Counted among one of the common packaging materials, carton boxes are made of paperboard and sometimes of corrugated fiberboard. They are used for hardware, food, pharmaceuticals, and other products. These boxes are similar to cardboard but they are more durable and easy to handle than the latter.

Carton boxes are economical as they are made of recycled cardboard boxes. In simple words, packaging manufacturers assemble these boxes from the worn out boxes. These boxes are durable and can withstand pressure well. They can be a line up against each other.

Plastic Packaging:

Plastic packaging is a common type of packaging being used in almost all consumer goods and other products. From bottles, wraps, boxes to carry bag, they are available in different types. One of the key advantages of plastic packaging is that it is flexible. Besides, it takes up less space. Plastic won’t cost you much as other packaging materials do. It is manufactured in bulk, keeping the overall cost of this material low.

Metals:

Metals used in packaging are mainly tin-plated or aluminum. They are used to make food and drink cans, tubes, aerosol cans, boxes, and hinged lids. They are recyclable. The weight of metal packaging is low while its resistance is high. It can withstand physical shocks.

Bubble Bag:

Bubble bags are great for storing and transporting fragile items like glassware and electronics. They are designed to keep your items safe and secure from outside wear and tear. They are available in various sizes. Also known as Bubble Wrap, they have anti-static properties to protect electronic chips or other electronic components from a potentially damaging static charge. Apart from protecting the items from damages, most of the Bubble Wraps are made from eco-friendly materials and can be recycled.

Also Read: https://isellpackaging.com/interesting-facts-about-bubble-wrap/

Stretch Wrap:

Stretch wrap or stretch film is a highly stretchable plastic film being used to wrap around the products to keep them in place. It is mostly used in both packaging and shipping. The elastic properties keep the item tightly bound.

Chipboard Packaging:

Chipboard packaging is widely used in industries like medical, food, cosmetic, beverage and electronic. Generally, it is a type of paperboard that is made out of reclaimed paper stock. It is a cost-effective packing option and can be easily folded, cut and formed. It is available in various strength and densities. However, it can’t be used for packing heavy items, as the chipboard sheet is a lightweight material, made for the items like crackers, cereal, and tissue boxes. Besides, they may not withstand heavy moisture as they are prone to expansion and discoloration in a damp environment.

Poly Mailers:

A poly mailer is an elastic type of packaging widely used for shipping products to the customers, making them a packaging choice for e-commerce stores. Poly mailers are waterproof, lightweight, cheap and occupy less space than corrugated boxes. They are great packaging non-fragile items like apparel, fabrics and yarns, arts and prints, books, shoes, and accessories.

However, the only downside is that they are prone to ripping or tearing as they are being shipped to their destination.

So these are some common type of packaging materials. Make sure to choose the one that can go well with the nature of your product as well as the shipping environment.

Tips for Zero Plastic Waste Air Travel

If you are like most flight travelers, you use a lot of plastic stuff—from cans, meal packaging, and cups. Once you are done with them, they are transferred to the bin. That seems a normal thing. Right?

But that’s not right.

Did you know that an average passenger creates nearly half a kg of waste per flight? Now calculate how much waste 300 passengers will generate on a typical flight. And the USA has over 5,000 passenger planes in the skies on any given day.

So you must have got an idea that the waste produced on flights often lead to a huge pile. And only 20 percent is recycled out of 75 percent onboard recyclable waste.

Also Read: Interesting Facts about Bubble Wrap

Waste disposal is equally a big concern as quarantine regulations prevent airlines from the recycling of cabin waste from many international flights.

However, plastics are a necessary evil for airlines due to its lightweight that helps them save fuel.

As a passenger, you can play a big role in minimizing plastic waste on the flights. Here’s how.

1. Bring Your Own Water Bottle:

It’s a great way to deal with single-use plastic bottles that are a huge part of plastic waste. Customs lets you carry an empty water bottle through the screening. The bottle can be filled up later at bottle refilling stations available at most airports. And there is no restriction on a full bottle of water on the plane. You can ask a steward to refill the bottle on the plane.

2. Use Your Own Reusable Utensils:

Travel with a little set of reusable utensils in your backpack instead of using disposables on the flight. A reusable utensil generally includes a knife, fork, spoon, chopsticks and glass drinking straws.

3. Bring Your Own Food and Snacks Onto Plane:

The food and drinks you receive on board are generally wrapped up in a lot of plastic packaging. Top of that, they are expensive and have chemicals seeping from the plastic wrap.

Therefore, it is a wise and nice idea to carry your own snacks and food. Many airlines will let you bring your own food. Make sure to pack your food in reusable containers.

Also Read: An Insider’s Guide to Poly Mailers

4. Travel Pillow:

Airline travel pillows are made of plastic and for single use only. They are discarded after being used for sanitary reasons. They are also sealed in plastic packaging. Why not bring your travel pillow to avoid such wastage?

5. Use Reusable Containers to Keep Your Personal Care Products

Use a reusable container to carry your personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and lotion. Minimize your purchase of duty-free products as they are packed in a sealed plastic bag for security reasons. Some glass bottles come packed in foam nets that are also made from plastic. Therefore, buy all the products from a local store. However, make sure to learn about the custom guidelines regarding your purchase.

So these are the tips to reduce plastic waste on the flight. Your little contribution can make a big difference. Besides, educate others for the same. What do you think? Do you have other ideas to share with us? Please let us know by commenting below!

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