As awareness of environmental issues has grown in recent years, consumers and businesses alike have started to prioritise sustainability in their decision-making processes. One crucial area where this shift has become evident is in packaging solutions. Sustainable packaging has emerged as a compelling answer to minimise the environmental impact of businesses while meeting the demands of conscientious consumers.
Conventional packaging, especially single-use plastics, has had a devastating impact on the environment. Non-recyclable plastics and other non-biodegradable materials end up in landfills, taking centuries to decompose, polluting soil and waterways and endangering our wildlife and their habitats. The production of these plastics is heavily reliant on fossil fuels that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
By implementing and embracing sustainable packaging solutions, businesses will actively contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the protection of our environment.
Why you should embrace sustainable packaging?
The shift to sustainable packaging has become crucial for a number of reasons. Firstly, it will go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint. Sustainable packaging often incorporates materials that require less energy and resources to produce, leading to lower carbon emissions throughout the supply chain. By choosing biodegradable, compostable, or recycled materials, businesses can help combat climate change.
Secondly, it can positively impact your brand and enhance your reputation. A survey carried out revealed that UK consumers have become more conscious of sustainability, with 81% reported preferring environmentally friendly packaging materials. (1)
Consumers are actively seeking products from businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Adopting eco-friendly packaging can enhance a company’s brand reputation and attract a broader customer base.
Another important factor to consider is how your business will meet regulatory requirements. The government is increasingly imposing strict regulations on packaging waste and its disposal. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is just one of those regulations. We have discussed the topic of EPR and its sustainable benefits previously and how embracing sustainable packaging can help businesses stay compliant with these evolving regulations.
By choosing sustainable packaging, businesses play a vital role in minimising environmental impact. Sustainable materials, such as biodegradable, compostable, or recycled materials, help reduce waste generation and carbon footprints, mitigating the overall ecological harm caused by packaging.
Our sustainable promise
Ribble deals exclusively with sustainable materials, offering 100% recyclable, environmentally sustainable packaging. We didn’t stop there though, we wanted to ensure our business adopted as many sustainable practices as possible.
In March 2023, we completed a new investment project installing a large solar panel system to the roof of our factory in Oldham. The system consists of 1775 individual solar panels generating around 532,770 kWH p.a saving around 250,403 kg of CO2 emissions per year, this project was the latest in a phase of green investments we have undertaken over the last few years, which you can see in more detail here.
In 2021 we installed new LED lighting throughout the factory and offices saving 127,000 kg of CO2 per year. We have also installed electric car charging points for staff and visitors to use.
Thanks to these investments our electricity supply is now fully provided through renewable energy.
So not only can you be safe in the knowledge your packaging solutions are 100% sustainable, but you can also be confident you are collaborating with an environmentally conscious business, doing what it can to combat climate change and protect the environment.
Sustainable packaging has become a necessary aspect of modern businesses, benefiting both companies and the environment. By reducing your carbon footprint you can play a vital role in mitigating the adverse effects of packaging waste on the planet.
And by making the switch to sustainable packaging, businesses can demonstrate commitment to the environment, meet consumer demands, and embrace innovation for a greener and more sustainable future. This strategic move not only ensures long-term viability in a changing market but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future for all.
Are you ready to embrace sustainable packaging?
