The Sustainable Shift: Why Reusable Packaging Outperforms Cardboard and Plastic for Shipping

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 In today's e-commerce-driven world, packaging plays a crucial role in protecting goods during transit. However, the environmental impact of traditional single-use cardboard boxes and plastic mailers has become increasingly concerning. Enter reusable packaging - a sustainable solution that's revolutionizing the shipping industry. Let's explore why reusable packaging is the superior choice for businesses and the environment.

Dramatic Waste Reduction

Single-use cardboard boxes and plastic mailers used in e-commerce packaging contribute significantly to our global waste problem. In contrast, reusable packaging solutions can be used hundreds of times before needing replacement, dramatically reducing the amount of packaging waste entering landfills and oceans.

Lower Carbon Footprint

While the initial production of reusable packaging may require more resources, its long lifespan results in a much lower carbon footprint over time compared to single-use alternatives used in e-commerce packaging streams. The repeated manufacture and disposal of cardboard and plastic packaging leads to higher cumulative emissions.

Resource Conservation

Reusable packaging conserves valuable natural resources by eliminating the need for constant production of new cardboard boxes (which contributes to deforestation) and plastic mailers (which rely on fossil fuels). By using the same packaging repeatedly, we reduce demand for raw materials.

Cost Savings for Businesses

Though reusable packaging has a higher upfront cost, it offers significant long-term savings for businesses. The need to continually purchase single-use e-commerce packaging is eliminated, and waste management costs are reduced. Over time, reusable solutions prove more economical.

Enhanced Product Protection

Reusable packaging is designed for durability and repeated use, often providing superior protection for shipped goods compared to flimsy cardboard or thin plastic e-commerce packaging. This can lead to reduced product damage and returns, improving customer satisfaction.

Brand Enhancement

Using reusable packaging demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, enhancing brand image. As consumers increasingly prefer eco-friendly options, reusable packaging can be a powerful differentiator in a crowded market.

Improved Logistics

Standardized reusable packaging can streamline logistics operations. Unlike varied sizes of cardboard boxes, reusable containers often come in consistent dimensions, making storage, stacking, and transport more efficient.

Data Collection Opportunities

Many reusable packaging solutions incorporate tracking technology, allowing businesses to gather valuable data on shipping routes, times, and product handling - information that's lost with single-use packaging.

Adaptability and Customization

Reusable packaging can be easily customized with branding elements or adapted for specific product needs, offering flexibility that isn't always possible or cost-effective with traditional single-use options.

Closing the Loop

At the end of their long useful life, reusable packaging materials can often be recycled, truly closing the loop in a circular economy. This is in stark contrast to many types of plastic packaging that end up in landfills or contaminate recycling streams.

Conclusion

The shift to reusable packaging represents a significant step towards more sustainable e-commerce packaging and shipping practices. By dramatically reducing waste, lowering carbon emissions, and offering numerous operational benefits, reusable solutions are paving the way for a greener future in logistics. As businesses and consumers alike become more environmentally conscious, the adoption of reusable packaging is not just an eco-friendly choice - it's a smart business decision for the long term. 

Contact us today to get started!

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Transforming Habits: 10 Ways to Support the Circular Economy Today

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 The shift towards a circular economy begins with individual choices, but it's at the corporate level where these changes truly scale and normalize. At LimeLoop, we're passionate about reusable solutions, particularly in packaging. Let's explore how both individuals and businesses can contribute to this vital transition.

The Power of Reuse

Reusable solutions are at the forefront of circularity. From food containers to clothing and shipping materials, innovative companies are leading the charge:

1. Food Containers: Companies like Dispatch Goods are revolutionizing takeout with reusable containers.
2. Clothing: Upchoose offers reusable clothing options, reducing textile waste.
3. Shipping Materials: That's where we come in! LimeLoop provides smart, reusable packaging for e-commerce.

Corporate Impact

While individual actions are crucial, it's the scale of corporate adoption that can create extraordinary impact. Businesses have the power to:

• Implement circular design principles
• Invest in reusable packaging systems
• Educate consumers about sustainable choices

Start Small, Think Big

Remember, changing simple single-use habits at home can make a tremendous impact. Here are 10 places to start:

1. Bring your own shopping and produce bags
2. Use a reusable vessils such as coffee mugs and water bottles
3. Opt for rechargeable batteries
4. Choose products with minimal packaging
5. Repair items instead of replacing them
6. Compost food waste
7. Buy secondhand when possible
8. Use cloth napkins instead of paper
9. Invest in quality, long-lasting products
10. Support businesses that prioritize circularity (like those using LimeLoop packaging!)

Join the Circular Revolution

By embracing these practices and supporting innovative companies, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether you're an individual looking to reduce waste or a business ready to revolutionize your packaging, every step towards circularity counts.

Ready to make your business part of the solution? Learn how LimeLoop's reusable packaging can transform your shipping practices and delight your customers. Contact us today to get started!

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Debunking the Myth: Reusable Packaging and Emissions

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In the world of sustainable packaging, myths and misconceptions can sometimes cloud the facts. One persistent myth we often encounter at LimeLoop is the idea that transporting reusable packaging generates more emissions than single-use alternatives. Today, we're here to set the record straight and show you why reusable packaging is not just a smart choice for your business, but a crucial step towards a more sustainable future.

The Myth

Some skeptics argue that the additional transportation required for returning and reusing packaging leads to higher overall emissions, potentially negating the environmental benefits of reusable solutions.

The Reality

Research and real-world data tell a different story. In fact, reusable packaging saves a staggering 93% on emissions compared to single-use alternatives. Let's break down why:

1. Lifecycle Analysis

When we consider the environmental impact of packaging, we need to look at its entire lifecycle - from production to disposal. Single-use packaging requires constant production, using new resources and energy each time. Reusable packaging, on the other hand, spreads its production impact over multiple uses.

2. Material Efficiency

Reusable packaging is designed to be durable, often using materials that are more resource-efficient in the long run. While this might mean a slightly higher initial carbon footprint, it's quickly offset by repeated use.

3. Optimization of Return Logistics

Companies like LimeLoop have developed smart systems to optimize return logistics. We use existing postal routes and consolidate returns, minimizing additional transportation needs.

4. Reduced Waste Management

Single-use packaging ends up in landfills or recycling facilities after just one use. The emissions associated with waste management - including collection, sorting, and processing - add up quickly. Reusable packaging significantly reduces this burden.

5. Technological Advancements

With advancements in materials science and logistics technology, the efficiency of reusable packaging systems continues to improve, further widening the gap in emissions savings.

The Numbers Don't Lie

A comprehensive study by the Reusable Packaging Association found that reusable packaging systems can reduce carbon emissions by up to 60% compared to single-use systems. When we factor in the entire lifecycle and our optimized logistics, LimeLoop's solutions push this saving to an impressive 93%.

Beyond Emissions: Additional Benefits

While the emissions savings are significant, the benefits of reusable packaging extend even further:

• Reduced reliance on raw materials
• Decreased water usage in production
• Lower overall energy consumption
• Minimized waste in landfills

Join the Reusable Revolution

At LimeLoop, we're committed to delivering a world without waste. By choosing reusable packaging, you're not just making a smart business decision - you're contributing to a more sustainable future.

Don't let myths hold you back from making a real difference. Embrace the power of reusable packaging and be part of the solution to our global waste challenge.

Ready to reduce your emissions by 93%? Contact us today to learn how LimeLoop can transform your packaging strategy. This blog post addresses the myth head-on, provides clear facts and explanations, and ends with a call-to-action. It's designed to be informative, persuasive, and aligned with LimeLoop's mission. Remember to add any specific data or case studies from LimeLoop's experience to further strengthen the argument.

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How Individual and Collective Actions Can Drive Global Circularity Forward

Attending The World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions in 2024, also know as Summer Davos, on behalf of LimeLoop was an enlightening experience. The discussions and insights shared underscored the urgency and complexity of addressing global challenges, particularly in the context of sustainability and the global plastic treaty. Here are some key takeaways from the inspiring event in Dalian, China:

Individual and Collective Action

One of the most resonant themes was the need for both individual and collective action. Each of us has a role to play in driving change, whether through personal choices or by influencing broader organizational and societal shifts. The collective impact of individual actions can be profound, and it is essential that we all step forward together to create meaningful progress.

Reimagining Financial Structures

A significant point of discussion was the necessity to rethink our financial structures. Traditional models often prioritize short-term gains, which can be detrimental to long-term sustainability. We must be willing to explore and adopt new financial frameworks that support circular economies and sustainable practices. This might involve innovative funding mechanisms and impact investing that prioritize long-term environmental and social benefits.

Investing in Systems

Another crucial takeaway was the importance of investing in systems rather than just individual products or solutions. At LimeLoop, we have seen the benefits of a systems-based approach, which can lead to more sustainable and effective outcomes. This means looking beyond immediate returns and considering the broader, long-term impacts of our investments. Embracing this mindset is essential for developing and implementing circular solutions that can address the plastic crisis.

Corporate Commitment

The role of corporations in driving change cannot be overstated. Businesses have the power to make significant impacts, and their commitment to sustainable practices is vital. Corporations must actively participate in the development and implementation of circular solutions. This commitment is essential for the success of any global plastic treaty and for achieving broader sustainability goals.

The Power of Kindness

Interestingly, one of the most profound insights from the event was the critical role of kindness. In addressing global challenges, collaboration, understanding, and empathy are crucial. Kindness fosters cooperation and drives meaningful change, making it an indispensable component of our efforts to create a more sustainable world.

Policy Shifts: The Icing on the Cake

Policy shifts, such as the structure of the Global Plastic Treaty, are essential. These policies provide the framework and support needed to drive large-scale change. While individual and corporate actions are crucial, policy changes can amplify these efforts and ensure that they are sustained over the long term. These shifts are the icing on the cake, providing the necessary structure and support for a circular economy.

The Annual Meeting of the New Champions reinforced the importance of a multifaceted approach to sustainability. By taking steps forward individually and collectively, reimagining financial structures, investing in systems, securing corporate commitments, and embracing kindness, we can make significant strides in addressing the plastic crisis. The path forward requires effort from all of us, but with these principles in mind, I left the event feeling both challenged and hopeful about our ability to create a cleaner, more circular future.

Join us in the reuse revolution and let's create a circular economy together!

Ashley Etling

CEO & Co-Founder

@thelimeloop

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5 Simple Ways to Contribute to a Circular Economy

In today's world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of many discussions, the concept of a circular economy has gained significant traction. At LimeLoop, we're passionate about creating sustainable solutions for shipping and packaging. But what can you do to support this shift towards a more circular economy? Here are five simple yet effective ways you can make a difference:

1. Embrace Reusable Packaging

One of the easiest ways to contribute to a circular economy is by opting for reusable packaging whenever possible. When shopping online, look for retailers who use LimeLoop's reusable shipping packages or similar sustainable options. These packages can be used over 50 times, significantly reducing waste compared to single-use cardboard boxes or poly mailers.

2. Return Reusable Packaging Promptly

If you receive a product in a reusable package, make sure to return it as soon as you've unpacked your items. With LimeLoop packages, it's as easy as zip, flip, and ship. Just zip up the empty package, flip over the pre-paid return label, and drop it in your mailbox or a USPS collection box.

3. Choose Products with Minimal Packaging

When shopping, opt for products with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. This reduces waste and encourages manufacturers to rethink their packaging strategies. Look for brands that prioritize sustainable packaging solutions.

4. Repair and Upcycle

Before discarding items, consider if they can be repaired or upcycled. Many products can be given a new lease on life with a little creativity or maintenance. This extends the life cycle of products and reduces the demand for new resources.

5. Support Brands Committed to Sustainability

Choose to support brands like Toad&Co that are actively working towards sustainability goals. Look for companies that use recycled materials, offer take-back programs, or are transparent about their environmental impact.

By voting with your wallet, you're encouraging more businesses to adopt circular economy principles.Remember, every small action counts. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you're contributing to a more sustainable future and helping to "deliver a world without waste" – a mission we're deeply committed to at LimeLoop.

Join us in the reuse revolution and let's create a circular economy together!

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Embracing Circularity: 5 Compelling Reasons for Leaders

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In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, sustainability and resource efficiency have become paramount concerns for enterprises across industries. As all leaders navigate the complexities of modern-day operations, embracing circularity – a regenerative approach that minimizes waste and maximizes resource utilization – is no longer just a buzzword; it's a strategic imperative.

Here are the top five reasons why C-suite leaders should prioritize circularity in their organizational strategies.

1. Innovative Sustainability. Mitigating Environmental Impact and Regulatory Risks

As environmental regulations tighten and consumer awareness of sustainability issues grows, companies that fail to adopt circular practices risk facing hefty fines, repetitional damage, and potential legal liabilities. By embracing circularity, enterprises can proactively mitigate these risks, reduce their environmental footprint, and position themselves as responsible corporate citizens.

2. Sustainable Profitability. Enhancing Resource Efficiency and Cost Savings

Circularity is inherently geared towards optimizing resource utilization and minimizing waste.

By embracing circular business models, such as product-as-a-service, remanufacturing, or closed-loop reusables, enterprises can significantly reduce their reliance on finite raw materials, lower operational costs, and unlock new revenue streams through innovative product life-cycle management.

3. Driving Innovation and Circular Competitive Advantages

Embracing circularity fosters a culture of innovation within organizations.

By rethinking traditional linear business models and exploring new ways to create value from existing resources, enterprises can develop cutting-edge products, services, and processes that differentiate them from competitors and create sustainable competitive advantages.

4. Elevating Brand Equity. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

Today's workforce, particularly younger generations, is increasingly conscious of environmental and social issues. By demonstrating a genuine commitment to circularity and sustainability, enterprises can enhance their employer brand, attract top talent, and foster a sense of purpose and engagement among their employees.

5. Future-Proofing Business Operations with Circularity

As the global economy transitions towards a more sustainable and circular model, enterprises that fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete. By embracing circularity now, all leaders can future-proof their organizations, positioning them to thrive in an increasingly resource-constrained and environmentally conscious world.

"The circular economy is becoming a core component of forward-looking business strategy. By rethinking the way we design, make, and use products and materials, companies can open up new opportunities for growth and value creation while reducing risks and increasing resilience." - Naoko Ishii, CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility

Implementing circularity is not just a matter of compliance or public relations; it's a strategic imperative that can drive long-term value creation, innovation, and resilience for enterprises. As leaders, the time to act is now – by integrating circularity into their organizational strategies, they can pave the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and future-ready business landscape.

 Want to learn more about embracing circularity. Let's grab a coffee. 

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Reusable Packaging Made Easy: 1000’s of Toad&Co Customers Rave About LimeLoop Mailers

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At LimeLoop, we're dedicated to revolutionizing product shipping and delivery, championing innovative sustainable packaging solutions that minimize waste and promote environmental stewardship. Our esteemed partner, Toad&Co, has enthusiastically embraced this mission by integrating the LimeLoop Reusable Mailer into their shipping options, providing customers with an eco-conscious alternative. Let's delve into the firsthand experiences of Toad&Co customers utilizing the LimeLoop Mailer and explore the seamless implementation of reusable packaging.

How Reusable Packaging Opt-In Works for Toad&Co Customers. 

When Toad&Co customers opt-in to the reusable packaging program, their order will be shipped via Ground service. Opting for Toad&Co's LimeLoop shipping option means they’ll receive their order in a durable, eco-friendly reusable mailer crafted from upcycled billboards. Once they receive the LimeLoop Reusable Mailer, they simply return it to us for reuse, perpetuating a cycle of sustainability.

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Giving Packaging a Makeover. Toad&Co Customer Reviews.

Real talk: Packaging is one of the biggest sustainability hurdles we face. There were 131 billion packages shipped worldwide in 2020 – and this number is expected to double in the next five years. With no signs of this slowing, Toad&Co is focusing on doing everything they can to lessen their impact when it comes to shipping and packaging. Here are a few of many reviews from their customers.  

1. Eco-Friendly and Convenient

"What a fantastic idea. I wish more vendors did this. I received 3 items in a black bag that still folded up and fit (just) in our mailbox. Each garment came in a lightweight and easily recyclable (or reusable) paper envelope. The bag they came in was zippered around the edge and secured with 2 snaps. In addition, there was a zip-tie that secured the zipper-pull to a loop on the shipping bag.!" Sarah D.

2. Reducing Waste & Ensuring Product Safety

"Awesome shipping method! These are so sturdy and well made. They have a soft lining to protect the contents. Plus, they don’t look like a retail shipment, so I don’t worry as much about the package being stolen out of my mailbox or off my porch." - Heather W.

3. Effortless Reusability

"I'm not one to want to do an extra step like return a mailer to the post office, but honestly it was really easy. They have plenty of time to return it so you didn't feel rushed. But honestly, if they charged you for being late to return it I wouldn't mind. Sometimes you need a little motivation. I love that using the mailer saves using a box, unlike the million boxes I just got from an Amazon order (eek!)!" - Lindsay L.

4. The Feel-Good Sustainable Experience

"I’ve always been happy with my Toad threads. The LimeLoop Mailer makes the whole experience even better! One more way that the Toads are demonstrating their caring for our environment!" - Linda P.

5. Empowering Sustainability

“Thank you Toad&Co for using these LimeLoop mailers! I feel a lot better ordering from any company that is committed to sustainability in tangible ways.” Amanda Z.

At LimeLoop, we're honored to collaborate with visionary partners like Toad&Co in pioneering sustainable practices within the e-commerce packaging landscape. Together, we're driving positive change towards a greener future, one reusable mailer at a time. Join us in our mission to reduce waste and safeguard our planet. Opt for the LimeLoop Mailer in your next Toad&Co order and become a part of the eco-friendly revolution!

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The Future of Reuse: How Linen Rental Companies Can Lead the Way

As the world becomes increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of single-use products, the demand for sustainable solutions has never been higher. One industry poised to be a catalyst for the future of reuse is the linen, uniform, and clothing rental industry, particularly for milestone events such as weddings, as well as in places such as event spaces, restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality businesses.

Learning from the Roots of Reuse

Rental companies are uniquely positioned to continue spearheading the reuse revolution. These businesses already possess the infrastructure and expertise required to manage the logistics of collecting, cleaning, and redistributing reusables on a large scale. There is much to glean from their optimized systems, presenting immense opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

"Reuse and circularity are the keys to unlocking a more sustainable future for packaging and logistics," says Dr. Sally Uren, Chief Executive of Forum for the Future. "Companies that can effectively close the loop on their products and materials will be the ones that thrive in the decades to come."

Cost Savings and Operational Efficiencies

Rental companies can leverage and share their reuse-focused model to achieve cost savings and operational efficiencies that are difficult for businesses relying on single-use products. By not continually purchasing new items, we can avoid capital expenditures and focus on optimizing the logistics of their reuse system.

Reduced Waste and Environmental Impact

Through leveraging optimized reuse infrastructures, rental companies can significantly diminish waste and environmental impact by doubling down on reuse. Each rental item can be utilized multiple times, ensuring materials remain in circulation and are kept out of landfills. This harmoniously aligns with reusable packaging, spanning from how products are wrapped to how they are delivered. 

Branding and Reputation as Sustainability Leaders

Demonstrating a strong commitment to reuse and circularity can enhance a rental company's brand reputation and appeal to eco-conscious consumers and businesses. This positioning as an industry leader in sustainability can be a competitive advantage.

Adaptability to Changing Market Demands

Rental companies' flexible business model allows them to quickly adapt to changing customer demands and market conditions, making them well-positioned to respond to evolving sustainability requirements. This agility is a key asset in the transition towards a more circular economy.

The traditional model of single-use, disposable products is no longer sustainable. Consumers are demanding more eco-friendly alternatives, and businesses are responding by exploring innovative reuse systems. According to a recent study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the global reuse market is expected to grow by 15% annually, reaching a value of $370 billion by 2030.

Legacy rental companies have significant advantages and valuable lessons to offer other businesses looking to embrace reuse and circularity in their operations. Their existing infrastructure, cost-effective model, and inherent focus on sustainability provide a strong foundation for driving the future of a more circular economy.

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Single use packaging is NOT sustainable

There are so many brands out there that claim they use “sustainable” packaging for their products. However, if it isn’t reusable, it isn’t sustainable. 

Let’s dig into this. 

Why reusable?

In the last year, packaging has been in the spotlight. Yet the term “packaging” can be vague and can encompass a number of different areas. It could be the actual packaging your product is in or it could be the packaging used in transport. Regardless, most companies are using single-use packaging throughout their entire supply chain and that just isn’t sustainable. 

Reusable packaging is sustainable.

Reusable packaging refers to containers, crates, pallets, and other packaging materials designed to withstand multiple uses throughout their lifecycle. Unlike single-use alternatives, which are disposed of after one use, reusable packaging is intended for repeated use, minimizing the need for continuous production and disposal.

Even if something is recyclable or compostable, it still requires the use of virgin materials and taps into our precious resources. This then adds to the waste output and harms the environment, your bottomline and your impact long-term.

3 harmful single-use packaging options

The single-use spirals are as follows:

Compostable packaging, while biodegradable under specific conditions, may not break down effectively in landfill environments, where oxygen and microbial activity are limited. Seemingly, about 60% fail to disintegrate after 6 months. Moreover, the production of compostable materials can still require significant resources and contribute to pollution if not managed properly.

Recyclable packaging, although touted as a sustainable solution, faces challenges such as contamination and limited recycling infrastructure, leading to much of it ending up in landfills or incinerators. Additionally, the energy-intensive recycling process itself may outweigh the environmental benefits in some cases.

Other single-use packaging, while convenient, contributes heavily to the global plastic pollution crisis. With millions of tons of plastic waste entering oceans and ecosystems each year, the detrimental impact on wildlife and human health cannot be overstated. Furthermore, the extraction and production of single-use materials deplete finite resources and exacerbate climate change.

We can’t wait

The term “sustainability” is a buzz word and it’s constantly evolving. Consumers demand greater transparency and accountability from businesses, and brands spend more time prioritizing how they can provide more value and more worth with their sustainability efforts. 

With governments worldwide implementing stricter regulations and consumers favoring eco-conscious brands, look at the EU especially, the time to prioritize reusable packaging is now. We can’t wait to prioritize a circular economy if we want to see real change in the next year, or even the next few years. 

Consumerism isn’t going to change, so why not change the mode of transportation to consumerism which we can control? 

Reusable packaging is just better packaging. 

Let’s talk about how we can get you into reusable packaging and save 35% or more on your packaging costs. It is truly better for the environment and for your budget. Schedule a call.

Shifting perceptions: How customers view sustainability today

Guest post by Annie Button--Expert in all things sustainability

Over the past few years, public awareness and opinions on environmental issues have risen up the agenda for consumers across the U.S. Once seen as a niche interest area, sustainability has become mainstream as eco-anxieties grow and calls to live more consciously increase.

Brands that lean into ethics and operate responsibly have an opportunity to tap into motivations around reducing waste, protecting the planet, and making purchasing decisions that align with rapidly shifting values.

Customers’ views on sustainability: what matters most?

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases. This is leading to a growing demand for sustainable products, and services. Studies have shown that consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products and are more likely to purchase products from companies that are committed to sustainability. In fact, one 2023 survey found that over 70% of respondents would pay more, with one in 10 stating they’d pay 30% more.

There are a number of factors driving this trend. One is the growing awareness of the environmental impact of climate change. Consumers are becoming more aware of the need to reduce their carbon footprint and are looking for ways to do so, as the media shares more of the dangers of climate change and the impact of fossil fuels and pollution.

Another factor is the increasing availability of sustainable products and services. In the past, sustainable products were often more expensive and difficult to find, making it harder for people to make the swaps necessary to lead a greener lifestyle. However, this is changing as more and more companies are offering sustainable products and services, such as MPB, a business sourcing 45% of its electricity from renewable sources and sending zero waste to landfill, and Reformation, a company that offsets 100% of their carbon emissions.

Consumers are also becoming more educated about sustainability – they’re learning about the different ways they can make a difference, and they’re looking for information about the sustainability practices of the companies they buy from. Social media has played a major role in raising awareness of sustainability issues. Consumers are increasingly using social media to connect with like-minded individuals and to learn about the latest sustainability trends.

The risks of superficial green messaging

While sustainability matters more to shoppers, most now look past superficial green messaging to consider substantive actions around social responsibility and environmental credentials. The customer view has matured to now delve deeper into sourcing, transportation miles and fairness across extended supply chains, revealing many businesses to be taking part in greenwashing tactics to boost sales.

Sustainability has developed as a concept, so much so that conscious consumers now interpret broadly, translating vague promises or nominal gestures into skepticism rather than brand loyalty. Terms like “recyclable”, “natural” or “green” may once have reliably signaled eco-credentials to many buyers. But increased awareness of interconnected environmental and social impacts means shoppers dig deeper across the whole product lifecycle when judging brand authenticity. The EU has already taken measures to protect the people from messaging that is incorrect or subjective.

With complex, interconnected definitions of sustainability now commonplace, brands must demonstrate authenticity to retain trust. Token carbon offset projects contradicted by lax governance and exploitative work practices simply shout greenwashing to buyers.

What can be called sustainable?

Sustainable packaging is not only about using a recyclable material but should consider the full environmental, social, and economic impacts of packaging materials—from raw material extraction through disposal. The goal is to meet current needs without limiting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

To create truly sustainable packaging, companies can use recycled and plant-based materials, reducing dependence on limited resources. Designing packaging that is recyclable, or compostable is a good start. However, working with reusable packaging is where you experience true sustainable efforts. This keeps materials in circulation and out of landfills. Companies should also think holistically, minimizing packaging wherever possible.

The people who produce packaging equally deserve sustainable and ethical working environments. By considering the well-being of communities touched by production, sustainable packaging promotes social responsibility. Overall, sustainable packaging means using renewable, recyclable materials, minimizing waste, and taking responsibility for environmental and societal impacts across the entire packaging lifecycle. This comprehensive approach helps preserve resources now and into the future.

What today’s consumers need when it comes to sustainability 

In today's market, where consumers are increasingly conscious of sustainability, businesses must adapt their strategies and practices to align with these evolving expectations. Ultimately, customers want it to be easier to make greener swaps, but there are several steps to achieving that.

Affordability and authenticity

Affordability is a key element of what consumers expect from sustainable brands. While there is growing awareness and preference for sustainably made goods, cost remains a barrier to mass adoption.

Products that are both environmentally and socially responsible and accessible to everyday buyers stand the best chance of shifting broader purchasing behavior. Meeting customers’ needs around price builds crucial trust in a brand’s authenticity on sustainability claims and increases the likelihood of repeat "ethical" purchases.

Transparency and trust

It’s also critical that brands interested in changing their customers’ perception of the business be transparent about sustainability efforts and performance through regular reporting. Customers also expect businesses to showcase a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation of sustainability practices with new technologies and benchmarks.

In order for consumers to truly trust sustainable brands, those companies must demonstrate consistency and transparency in their messaging and actions around sustainability. It is not enough to make claims or even do the right things sometimes – regular, visible commitment is key.

Brands build trust by backing up marketing with substantive, ongoing investments and initiatives that match their stated values. They also publish frequent disclosures with meaningful performance data, undergo third-party audits, and maintain open dialogue around challenges as well as achievements. When brands are consistent over time and across business units in prioritizing people and planet alongside profits – even when inconvenient – they prove authenticity.

As we’ve seen in recent years, how we view sustainability has changed considerably and customers are no longer happy to settle for the bare basics. As consumer demand for sustainable products and practices continues to grow, businesses that embrace sustainability will be well-positioned for long-term success.

About Annie Button

Annie Button is a freelance writer based in the UK. She specializes in sustainable living and business development. Her work has been featured in a variety of online publications and platforms.

The problems with recycling

Since you were young, it’s been ingrained in you that recycling is essential for our planet. Your milk carton? Goes in the recycling bin. Your empty yogurt cups? Recycled! Cardboard boxes? Drop it in the recycling bin. 

And now you can say you’ve done your part for the planet!

Unfortunately, it isn’t that simple and it doesn’t actually solve as much as we want it to. Or said another way, we aren’t actually solving the root issue when we recycle. Virgin materials will still be used to create new items, and what you’ve recycled may not actually get recycled due to municipality regulations and/or due to contamination–whatever your neighbors and/or others have dropped into the recycling bin as well. 

In the United States, the recycling landscape is a bit of a mixed bag, with numerous challenges along the way. Do you know where your recyclables actually go? 

A day in the life of recycling

When you toss your aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and paper products into the recycling bin, you expect them to have a second life because that’s what you’re told. Sadly, that’s not always the case. 

Once your recyclables are picked up, they're sent to recycling centers. These centers sort and process the materials, preparing them for the next step. Some materials are transformed into new products, while others are exported to countries like China, which used to be a significant player in recycling until it imposed stricter regulations in 2018. 

Only 9% of items recycled actually get recycled. 9% is nothing when you see full recycling bins along your street or within your building complex. One time, I saw a TV in the recycling bin in my complex…what! 

Ongoing challenges

In the United States, recycling challenges include product contamination, limited infrastructure, and a fluctuating market demand of materials. All of these make it so that staying on top of what can and cannot be recycled, how to physically recycle something, and the convenience of it is really challenging to stay on top of.

Contamination

Contamination happens when non-recyclable items get mixed in with recyclables, making the sorting process more difficult. Similarly, it’s imperative that you clean out your recycled items before dropping them in a bin. Those almond butter containers can’t have an excess of almond butter left inside them if you want it to make it through the recycling process. Same with those tomato sauce jars or cans of beans. 

Subsequently, are you up to date on what can and can’t be recycled?

Glass, aluminum, paper and cardboard are all pretty standard recyclable materials–as long as they are free and clean of other materials (this includes tape on cardboard boxes!) Where it gets confusing is when it comes to plastics. Those numbers on the bottom of plastic containers are called resin identification codes, and they indicate the type of plastic used. These numbers range from #1 (PET) to #7 (Other). Unfortunately, the presence of these numbers doesn't guarantee that an item will be recycled. It depends on the recycling facility's capabilities and local regulations.

So, depending on where you live, that plastic bottle you diligently put in the recycling bin might not be living its best life after all…

Limited infrastructure & fluctuating demand

Insufficient recycling facilities and low demand for certain materials often lead to recyclables ending up in landfills. The pandemic played a big part in this as well considering many didn’t want secondhand with trying to stay safe and virus free. This is pretty consistent across the entire US. 

What makes it more challenging is that different cities and regions are able to recycle some items that other areas are not. Do you know what you can and cannot recycle in your district? What's recyclable in one city may not be in another. 

This lack of standardization can confuse consumers and increase contamination rates. To tackle this issue, it's been left up to you to stay up-to-date and current on what is and is not recyclable in your area. 

Does it really end up in landfills though?

Even with all your good intentions, a significant amount of recyclable material still ends up in landfills. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, more than 146 million tons of waste were sent to landfills. That's a lot of missed opportunities for recycling! Especially when plastics accounted for over 18% and paper and paperboard made up about 12%.

However, there are many efforts underway to improve recycling infrastructure, reduce contamination, and boost domestic recycling markets. Consumers can do their part by being more aware of what they're recycling and striving to reduce waste in the first place. I.e. making more conscious purchasing decisions.

Questions you can ask yourself before purchasing something can include:

• Do I really need this?
• Where will this go if I purchase it?
• Will this help with a sustainable lifestyle?
• What joy will this item bring me?
• Will I still use this item in a year? In 5 years?
• Do I have something at home like this already?
• Does this item truly serve a purpose or do I just like the aesthetic?
• Will this item be thrown away after one use?

In other words, rather than focus on recycling at the end of life, why not focus on reducing your intake and reusing what you already have?
To learn more about LimeLoop’s reuse programs, schedule a call with one of our Reuse Specialists today.

5 ways to positively impact your ESG goals without changing consumer behavior

Today, there’s no shortage of people talking about sustainable options. 

Sometimes, I even hesitate in wanting to use the word “sustainable” because it can so quickly get lost in the mix or be glossed over. However, we need to talk about it. Brands of all sizes have been looking at their options when it comes to more sustainable options and what that means for their ROI, PR and overall organizational mission.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals have become a priority for businesses not only looking to create a sustainable future, but to appeal to consumers knowing that each purchase made has a greater impact. We know from recent research that over 60% of consumers want to purchase from brands that have some kind of ESG initiative. Yet, many companies find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to balancing ESG objectives with consumer behavior. 

The common misconception is that achieving ESG goals necessitates drastic changes in consumer habits. 

While some more sustainable practices do require some education and habit-changing, there are many that do not. By adopting these strategies that do not require major changes, brands can make a meaningful impact on the environment and society while maintaining a thriving business.

Ready to change habits?

The biggest challenge brands face when it comes to sustainable change is getting consumers to change their habits. This is especially seen in the packaging and shipping space as today’s consumers order online, receive their goods and discard the packaging material. 

At LimeLoop, we know this really well. We work with our customers to educate their consumers on what to do with packaging that arrives so that it can be used time and time again. 

While we still promote reusable packaging for ecommerce, we also know there are more efficient and more effective ways for brands to make sustainable change without asking their customers to do more for them…

5 ‘other’ ways to reach your ESG goals

Take what I’m about to say with a grain of salt… 

Most brands are keen to make sustainable change that is going to be clearly recognized and noticed by consumers. Why is that? Because they want the world to know they are doing this. Word of mouth is huge for brands and this helps with word of mouth marketing. We get it! 

Though we’d also like to point out that there is no sustainable swap that won’t go unnoticed. We are constantly talking about ways to be more responsible, and regardless of if your customer is hands-on with your new sustainable practices, these efforts can be publicly shared. 

Here are a few albeit small, “sustainable” swaps:

Material Sourcing: The million-dollar question: are your materials sourced sustainably and ethically? We know all too well how challenging it can be to find the right manufacturer and sourcing partners. Not only are you looking at the sustainability of your materials here, you also have to look at working conditions. When was the last time you did a review of your manufacturing and sourcing partners? There may be opportunities to adjust. 

Energy Efficiency: Are you leaving lights on in your warehouses when they don’t need to be? What about central air vs. fans? Or even keeping things plugged in that barely get any use… Some minor swaps can be made to reduce your energy output but still make an impact. And it’s a quick impact that your employees notice as well and want to share with their friends and family.

Waste Reduction: Does half of what you print need to be printed? Or could it be kept on your laptop and emailed to whoever needs it? What about coffee machines in your office or warehouse?. Do you need to have as many takeaway cups as you do or could you swap to ceramic mugs? 

Reusable Packaging: Are you shipping anything at any point in cardboard? Most likely, you are. How do your products go from warehouse and distribution centers to your retail stores? Cardboard. You are paying to ship your products in trash, essentially, to your stores. Reusable packaging is most cost-effective and significantly more environmentally friendly. And who wants to get dirty cardboard all over their clothes when carrying them around anyway? Not your retail store workers…

Employee Engagement: Your website likely has a lot of information around your ESG initiatives which is great. However, how often are you syncing with your employees to run through these initiatives and what they can do to help make a difference? Engaging your employees in ESG initiatives can be a powerful force for change. Encourage employees to participate in sustainability programs and provide incentives for innovative ideas that can help your company achieve its ESG objectives. 

Less drastic, longer term impact

A motivated workforce can make a significant difference. Changing consumer behavior is hard, we know it all too well. 

We also know it is absolutely possible, but there are other ways to reach your ESG goals without imposing drastic changes on consumer behavior. 

Together, we contribute to a more sustainable future, and align our values with the growing global commitment to environmental, social, and governance responsibility. Your changes impact those around you. The journey toward sustainability is not a solo endeavor but a collective effort, and these strategies empower others to play their part while maintaining their market appeal.

What’s another simple swap that brands can do to reach their ESG goals?

What does it really mean to be “sustainable”?

In recent years, the term "sustainability" has become increasingly popular. But what does it really mean to be sustainable? 

To get a better understanding of what most people think this term means, I asked around my neighborhood in Denver. Here’s what some Denverites had to say:

“I like to think that being sustainable means wasting less. I try to only buy food at the grocery store that I will actually eat, but in my case, eating out more is probably more sustainable as then I know I will truly only pay for what I’m going to eat. Does that count for sustainability since I’m wasting less in food rather than thinking about plastic or something that gets thrown away–or worse, you see it thrown onto the ground as litter? I hope so…”

“Sustainability means choosing to purchase items that can be recycled and has the little triangle on the bottom of the container.”

“I bring my reusable grocery bags to the store whenever I remember–which is most of the time–and that always feels good.”

“Bike more. Or walk more. I rarely put gas in my car because I rarely drive. We’re a pretty bike friendly community, especially in the summer, so just get outside.”

“Do your research on the brands you buy from. Do they give back to the community? Do they offer sustainable options? Do they treat their employees with respect and dignity? Sustainability for me goes above and beyond the environment. It’s a movement rooted in respect towards people living in the environment.”

Sustainability can mean a number of different things to different people, as you can see from above. Whether it’s about reducing consumption, your waste output, choosing respect, or making more conscious decisions, we are all doing our part to make the world a more eco-friendly place. 

The definition of “Sustainability”

Merriam Webster’s definition of sustainability is as follows

“noun. the ability to be sustained, supported, upheld, or confirmed. Environmental Science. the quality of not being harmful to the environment or depleting natural resources, and thereby supporting long-term ecological balance: The committee is developing sustainability standards for products that use energy.”

At its core, sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is about finding a balance between economic growth, social development, and environmental protection. 

In other words, sustainability is about ensuring that we can continue to thrive as a society without depleting the resources that we depend on.

Just like the sustainable choices mentioned above, what else can we do to be more sustainable in our day-to-day lives?

5 sustainable suggestions 

Here are five key areas in which individuals and organizations can focus on to be more sustainable:

1. Energy Efficiency
   • One of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. By improving energy efficiency, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and decrease our carbon footprint. For example, using LED light bulbs, turning off electronics when not in use, and using public transportation or carpooling are all ways to improve energy efficiency.
   • Pro tip: A sneaky way to improve energy efficiency is to go back through your email and delete old emails you don’t need anymore. That newsletter you got last year is probably a good one to delete. These emails are stored on a server somewhere taking up space. This is a quick, easy and highly manageable way to be more efficient.

2. Waste Reduction
   • The amount of waste we produce has a significant impact on the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States generated 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2018, with only 32.1% being recycled or composted. By reducing the amount of waste we produce and properly disposing of what we do produce, we can help to conserve resources and reduce pollution. This can be achieved by recycling, composting, and reducing the use of single-use plastics.
   • Pro tip: At the grocery store, try and buy your fruits and veggies whole rather than pre-cute AND without any plastic bags to hold them together. You don’t really need them so why grab them anyway?

3. Sustainable Agriculture
   • Agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. By adopting sustainable agricultural practices, we can reduce the environmental impact of food production. This can be achieved by using organic farming methods, reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and supporting local farmers who use sustainable practices.
   • Pro tip:  Look for the free range eggs and local meat at your grocery store. These are typically just $1-2 more and are worth it for the environment and for your own health. Another pro tip is to plant your own herb plants rather than buy herbs in those plastic clam-shell wrappings every time you need herbs. First, you’ll have them 24/7 at home and second, you’ll be wasting less.

4. Water Conservation
   • Water is a precious resource, and it is becoming increasingly scarce in many parts of the world. By conserving water and using it more efficiently, we can help to ensure that there is enough water for everyone. This can be achieved by fixing leaks, using low-flow fixtures, and reducing water usage in landscaping.
   • Pro tip: Turn your faucet off when you’re brushing your teeth. So simply yet so easy and impactful in creating new habits to conserve water. 

5. Reusable Packaging
   • Cardboard and plastic polymailers use precious resources. Polymailers simply have no positive environmental impact as they are made from plastic and cardboard is deceiving when it comes to sustainability. Unfortunately, it’s become ingrained in consumers that recycling is the solution to keep the planet healthy and happy. However, we know that recycling is the last option when it comes to the 3 R’s of reduce, reuse and recycle. Recycling should be the last resort which is why reusable packaging is the more sustainable option. 
   • Pro tip: Look for brands that send packages in LimeLoop reusable packaging. Check out our website to see some brands using LimeLoop to ship goods and maybe you'll find something you like and want to order. Or the easiest pro tip, walk into your favorite store next step and shop in real-time in a brick-and-mortar.

Taking responsibility

Being sustainable means taking responsibility for our impact on the environment and future generations. By focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable agriculture, water conservation and reusable packaging, we can all play a role in creating a more sustainable future. 

Small changes can make a big difference. Are you ready to deliver a world without waste?

Learn more about LimeLoop’s Trackable Reusable Packaging, click here.

4 ways reusable packaging can save you money

In an era where sustainability and cost efficiency are paramount, businesses are seeking innovative ways to reduce waste and maximize their profits. 

One such solution gaining popularity is reusable packaging. When you replace traditional cardboard with reusable packaging in your supply chain, you can significantly cut costs while simultaneously contributing to a greener future. 

A common misconception around sustainability is that it will actually cost you more money. That just simply isn’t accurate. In fact, in most cases, you can save money with reusable packaging. Though depending on your business model and products, in some cases, you may end up cost neutral. Regardless, the benefits to reusable packaging vs. cardboard are clear so if you’re still cost-neutral, why wouldn’t you ditch cardboard and switch to reusable packaging? 

In this blog post, we will explore the concept of reusable packaging and delve into four ways it can save money for retailers.

Understanding Reusable Packaging

Reusable packaging involves the use of durable containers, crates, or totes that can be repeatedly utilized throughout the supply chain. These containers are designed to withstand multiple trips, ensuring the safe transportation of goods from warehouses or distribution centers to retail stores.  

The key component here is that reusable packaging can be reused many, many times. Pro tip: If you’re looking to make the change to reusable packaging, look for ones that can be reused at least 100 times. 

Unlike one-time-use cardboard boxes, reusable packaging is constructed with longevity in mind, reducing your waste and your environmental impact.

So, how can reusable packaging save on costs?

Let’s dig into a few ways...

4 ways reusable packaging saves you money

1. Reduced Packaging Expenses
   • By adopting reusable packaging, retailers can significantly diminish their ongoing packaging expenses. Unlike traditional cardboard boxes that need to be repurchased frequently, reusable containers can be used hundreds of times before requiring replacement. This eliminates the need for regular investments in new packaging materials, ultimately leading to substantial cost savings. 
   • This seems obvious once you read it, but many times you see the initial upfront cost and think that it’s not going to be cost-effective. Because you eliminate the amount of times you need to purchase new cardboard boxes, you can truly save on costs with this upfront investment

2. Decreased Transportation Costs
   • Reusable packaging is not only durable but also stackable and easily collapsible. This feature optimizes space utilization during transportation, allowing more products to be shipped per trip. With increased product capacity, retailers can reduce the number of required shipments, which directly translates to lower transportation costs. Moreover, the sturdiness of reusable containers minimizes the risk of product damage, thereby reducing expenses associated with returns and replacements.
   • And, with the right partner, you can better track your packages reducing the risk for lost packages and inventory. Learn more about LimeLoop’s Trackable Reusable Packaging here. 

3. Efficient Inventory Management
   • Reusable packaging offers a significant advantage in streamlining inventory management processes. Unlike cardboard boxes that often need to be disassembled and discarded after delivery, reusable containers can be swiftly emptied, folded, and stored until the next shipment. This promotes a more efficient and organized warehouse or distribution center environment, reducing labor costs associated with cleaning up and disposing of packaging materials.
   • We’ve estimated that with every reusable package, you can save roughly $0.80 on overall efficiency. These numbers vary based on your own products and operations. If you want numbers tailored to your specific brand, click here. 

4. Enhanced Brand Image and Customer Loyalty
   • In addition to tangible cost savings, embracing reusable packaging demonstrates a retailer's commitment to sustainability. Consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental issues and actively seek out businesses that align with their values. More and more data is surfacing about how consumers want to purchase from brands that make sustainable choices. In fact, more than 60% of respondents said they’d pay more for a product with sustainable packaging. 
   • By incorporating reusable packaging, retailers can position themselves as eco-conscious and attract environmentally aware customers. This not only strengthens brand image but also fosters long-term customer loyalty, leading to increased sales and repeat business.

Sustainable can be cost effective

In a world striving for environmental sustainability and cost efficiency, reusable packaging stands out. And for retailers looking to make lasting, and quick, impacts to their ESG goals, reusable packaging stands out as an effective solution for just that. 

By transitioning from traditional cardboard boxes to durable and reusable containers, retailers can achieve substantial cost savings in packaging expenses, transportation costs, and labor expenditure. Moreover, the positive environmental impact and enhanced brand image associated with reusable packaging contribute to building customer loyalty and driving future sales. 

Are you ready for greater cost savings and a more sustainable and profitable future? 

Learn more about LimeLoop’s Trackable Reusable Packaging, click here.

4 undeniable reasons reusable packaging outshines corrugated cardboard

Picture this: Your retail store employees receive a huge shipment of new items ready to be unpacked, refolded or hung up. 

Yet, your items arrive in a squished package of corrugated cardboard that is:

• Extremely hard to open because they are squished
• Clearly dirty so your store floor isn’t looking as sharp
• And, now they’re left with a big mess for all to see

This is all too familiar, yeah?

Regardless if you’re using corrugated cardboard or recycled corrugated cardboard, the above is a pretty common occurrence in retail stores everywhere. Corrugated cardboard isn’t providing much value to employees, and it provides very little value to the environment considering its use is limited.

What are my options?

Two words: reusable packaging. 

Reusable packaging is better for a number of reasons. At a high level, some of these reasons include:

• Safety and security
• Minimal impact on the environment
• Cost savings
• Better use of resources (think: timing and efficiency)
• Tracking ability 24/7/365

Sttil, the biggest pushback we hear when it comes to making the switch to reusable packaging is all around cost. 

• Will it cost me more?
• If it doesn’t save me money, I can’t justify it
• We don’t have the budget for this right now

Lucky for you, you can actually save on costs with reusable packaging anywhere from 25-75% depending on a few factors. Ask me more about this here.

To paint a better picture of reusable packaging vs. corrugated cardboard, let’s dig into more specifics.

Reusable packaging > corrugated cardboard

Here’s why…

The Environmental Impact:

When it comes to sustainability, reusable packaging takes the crown. According to a study conducted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), an astonishing 46% of global waste comes from packaging materials. This statistic alone should make us stop and think about the repercussions of our choices.

Reusable packaging, on the other hand, offers a practical solution to this environmental dilemma. By opting for packaging that can be used multiple times, we reduce the need for single-use materials like corrugated cardboard boxes. This results in less waste generated and fewer resources consumed during production, ultimately contributing to a greener planet.

More on the environmental impacts from our friends at Rothy’s here.

Cost-Efficiency:

While corrugated cardboard boxes may seem inexpensive at first glance, the long-term costs of using them can quickly add up. According to research conducted by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, reusable packaging can save businesses up to 95% in packaging costs over time.

If you want specifics on your costs, fill out this quick form here. 

Investing in reusable packaging solutions may require a higher upfront investment, but the savings over the long run are undeniable. By reducing the need for constant box replacements, businesses can cut down on expenses and redirect those resources toward other areas of growth.

Protection and Durability

One of the most critical aspects of packaging is ensuring the safe arrival of products to their intended recipients. Here’s where reusable packaging shines brightly. Unlike flimsy, corrugated cardboard boxes, reusable packaging options are designed with durability in mind. With reusable packaging, you can rest assured that your precious cargo will arrive intact, reducing the risk of damaged goods and costly returns.

Additionally, packaging made from upcycled and sustainable materials are designed with durability in mind. It’s not only the materials used, but the ergonomics of the packaging as well like adding handles, easy zippers, the ability to fold, etc. Protection for both your goods and your employees is key.

Brand Image and Customer Experience

Packaging is not just a means to an end; it also plays a significant role in shaping brand image and customer experience. Reusable packaging allows businesses to make a memorable impression on their customers while showcasing their commitment to sustainability.

Research from McKinsey & Company indicates that 70% of consumers consider sustainability when making purchasing decisions. Especially in today’s world where sustainability and eco-friendly practices are in the limelight more often than not. By aligning your brand with eco-friendly practices through reusable packaging, you can attract environmentally-conscious customers and foster long-term loyalty.

What would you choose?

In the battle between reusable packaging and corrugated cardboard boxes, it’s clear that the former holds the upper hand. Not only does reusable packaging reduce environmental impact, but it also offers cost-efficiency, superior protection, and boosts brand image. Embracing reusable packaging is a win-win situation for both businesses and the planet.

So, the next time you receive a package, let’s imagine a world where cardboard boxes are replaced by durable and eco-friendly alternatives. Together, we can deliver a world without waste. 

To learn more about LimeLoop’s Trackable Reusable Packaging, click here.

What really goes into the making of reusable packaging?

There are really two main goals when it comes to designing reusable packaging from our perspective:

1. Packages need to be efficient in design, and
2. Packages need to be made sustainably

Naturally, there are a number of different factors to take into consideration to achieve the above two goals. You want your reusable packaging to be functional, durable and environmentally friendly which can become quite a complex process.

Some of the key considerations that go into designing reusable packaging include:

• Materials selection – What type of material will be best? Does it need to be water resistant? Where should we source these materials? Is it sustainable?  
• Design considerations – What is important in your design? Do you have any transportation needs? What about zippers, flaps, snaps, fasteners, etc.? Specific sizes?
• Environmental considerations – Does it minimize waste across the entire supply chain? Think: sourcing, transportation to manufacturer, energy to develop, etc.
• Cleaning and sanitization – Is it easy to clean, wash and sterilize?
• Cost considerations – Is this cost justified? How does it compare to single-use and what are the long-term investments?

To better understand the actual details of these factors, I went to the pros. I spent some time with Angela Kwok, LimeLoop’s own VP of Operations, to better understand what goes into designing our own reusable packaging.

Here’s what she had to say…

Design with the pros

1. First, what do you look for when shopping for manufacturers and when sourcing materials to minimize waste and be as environmentally friendly as possible?

Angela:  When looking for manufacturing partners, we think about diversification and sustainability, from both environmental and social perspectives. We have established nearshore manufacturing partners to diversify our supply chain, shorten lead times, and reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation of our finished products. We look for manufacturing partners that have fair wages and safe working conditions.

In terms of sourcing and selecting suppliers for the materials, we also look at environmental and social sustainability. For example, we partner with REPREVE — sourcing recycled polyester (RPET) from certified mills and participating in their take-back program for RPET at end-of-use. When sourcing materials, we have also taken best practices from brands like Everlane, such as referencing the International Labour Organization regarding different countries’ practices and risks.

2. How long does it typically take to design and develop a reusable package that is efficient and sustainable?

Angela:  While it may only take weeks to design and develop a first prototype, it takes months or even years to iterate and launch a new reusable package that is efficient, durable, and sustainable. Over the years, we have learned how reusable packages are handled throughout the supply chain — by warehouses, carriers, consumers, and retail stores. Beyond that, we’ve learned about constraints in these different systems and environments. Through these learnings, we have been able to iterate on our design to improve the users’ experiences with the packages and extend the lifetime of the packages, before being repaired, upcycled, or recycled.

With these learnings, we can accelerate the development of additional package types and sizes. We still recognize that different use cases can pose new challenges, hence the importance of testing and iterating.

LimeLoop designing with the Box Clever team.

3. From years of designing, what have you learned in terms of materials that work well and maybe materials that have been a challenge? What materials are best suited for creating a durable and reusable package that can withstand transportation and handling?

Angela:  Towards circularity, it is important to consider the recyclability of the materials being used. We have selected recycled PET and polypropylene (PP) as the primary materials in our packaging for their durability and recyclability.

We also found an opportunity to improve upon single-use alternatives, such as corrugated cardboard boxes. Paper-based corrugated cardboard boxes and paper mailers can get wet in the rain and cause damage to the products inside. To quote one of our partners, the paper mailers looked like “giant wet tea bags” after being in the rain. We selected materials that are either water-resistant or waterproof. This improves the unboxing experience and the durability of the packages.

Another decision point in the process has also been balancing durability with cost. While a heavier and thicker fabric is more durable, it adds cost in manufacturing as well as cost in shipping costs for our retailer. We balance the best of both by using different exterior and interior lining materials to ensure durability through transportation and handling, while making the packages as lightweight as possible.

4. Roughly, what is the cost of manufacturing a reusable package, and how does it compare to the cost of a single-use alternative?

Angela:  The cost of manufacturing a reusable package is several times more than that for a single-use alternative. Much like the environmental impact, the benefit comes over time with needing fewer packages. Our packages are designed to be used for 100 cycles, replacing 100 single-use alternatives. That means, 99 packages that you do not need to manufacture for each reusable package which will offset the costs long-term.

5. How do you track the sustainability of our reusable packages? What are the metrics here that really matter?

Angela:  As you may have expected, one of the key metrics is the number of cycles the reusable packages get reused. Based on a conducted life cycle assessment, our reusable packages need to be used between 2 and 6 uses to be better than the corrugated cardboard box equivalent from a CO2 perspective, depending on the package type and size.

This is where our technology platform comes into play, to track and improve upon these metrics. The sensor technology embedded in our packages allows us to track the number of cycles and reduce the number of lost packages through track and trace. Through our platform, reminders can easily be set up to encourage consumers to return the packages. Most consumers intend to return and want to do the sustainable thing, but we understand, life is busy! The timely reminders and different incentive programs allowed through our platform encourage the reuse rate.

Your reusable packaging

In order to get an efficient and sustainable final product, this process can take quite a bit of time and testing, but the long-term investment and pay-off is worth it. And thankfully, LimeLoop has done it for you so you don’t have to. 

We hope to change the mentality from single-use waste to reusable materials in more than just packaging so we can truly deliver a world without waste.

Reusable packaging for your supply chain or ecommerce is ready for you when you are.

6 ways cardboard does more harm than good

No matter where you go, cardboard is never far. 

Cardboard is one of the most widely used materials for packaging and shipping, and in the US alone, 46.5 million packages are shipped everyday. When we break it down by carrier, UPS claims to send 36.5 million packages per day and FedEx claims to ship an average of 10 million packages per day. 

While packaging can come in many forms, about 95% of packages that are shipped and delivered in the US are made of cardboard. 

That’s a lot of packages.

To clarify, that’s a lot of cardboard…

Why is cardboard so commonly used?

Cardboard is a widely used packaging material though it has both benefits and drawbacks. 

Some benefits of cardboard can look like:

• It is lightweight
• It is easy to recycle
• It can be biodegradable which can make it a more “environmentally friendly” option compared to other packaging materials such as plastic (we’ll come back to this)
• It is also a “renewable resource” since it is made from trees that can be replanted

While there is truth to the above, there are also some common misconceptions about the benefits listed above...

Some of the drawbacks of cardboard include:

• The production of cardboard requires significant amounts of energy and water
• It contributes to deforestation if not sourced sustainably
• While cardboard is recyclable, we know that not all cardboard actually gets recycled
• A lot of cardboard will end up in landfills where it can take years to decompose and will release greenhouse gasses

Overall, cardboard can do quite a bit of harm to the environment. Its environmental impact really depends on various factors such as its sourcing, production, use, and disposal. 

6 ways cardboard harms

​​While cardboard has been made so readily available to everyone, there are some major drawbacks to the economy we’ve built around cardboard.

Here are 5 ways cardboard harms the environment:

1. Landfill waste
   • When cardboard is not recycled or composted, it can contribute to landfill waste, taking up valuable space and potentially releasing harmful gasses as it decomposes.
   • Cardboard together with paper make up about 41% of solid waste streams. These really should make it to a recycling center, but they don’t always due to what else gets thrown into the same recycling bins, or because they weren’t recycled in the first place.

2. Deforestation
   • Cardboard is typically made from wood pulp, which means that producing cardboard requires cutting down trees. Deforestation can have a range of negative environmental impacts, including loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and increased carbon emissions.
   • US cities lose 36 million trees annually. While not all of this is directly related to cardboard creation, it is indirectly due to the carbon emissions that have increased over the years which can lead to more fires and other natural disasters. 
   • Since the 1600s, the US has destroyed 75% of its virgin forests. 

3. Energy consumption
   • The production of cardboard requires significant amounts of energy, including for transportation, processing, and printing. This energy consumption can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of pollution, methane especially. Methane impacts the environment over 20 times more than carbon dioxide.

4. Water usage
   • Producing cardboard also requires large amounts of water, which can strain local water resources and contribute to water pollution if not properly treated.
   • In the United States, more than 800 million tons of cardboard (regular and corrugated) and paper are thrown away yearly. If we recycled one ton of corrugated cardboard, we could save 700 gallons of water. Even better, if cardboard wasn’t used as regularly, this number would be even better…

5. Chemical pollution
   • Some cardboard products may be treated with chemicals to make them more resistant to moisture or insects. These chemicals can potentially leach into the environment if not properly disposed of, potentially harming plants, animals, and humans.
   • Typically there are around 200 chemicals that are used in the manufacture of paper or cardboard. These chemicals can be dangerous today and when cardboard decomposes in a landfill and seeps into the environment–land, water and air.

6. Cost of using cardboard
   • While this is more indirectly focused on the environment, cardboard use in organizations is costly which takes away from the positive impact organizations can have on the environment. Money saved from ditching cardboard can be allocated to other ESG initiatives. 

What can we do?

To minimize these negative impacts, it's important to use cardboard responsibly, recycle or compost it when possible, and choose alternatives when appropriate. 

What do you do today to minimize the negative impacts of cardboard?

A popular alternative to replace cardboard is reusable packaging. To learn more about LimeLoop’s Smart Reusable Packaging Platform, click here.

3 simple swaps for a circular supply chain

For many of us, we’ve heard the 3 R’s (reduce, reuse and recycle) over and over again from childhood to adulthood. They’ve been ingrained into our behavior and our schooling since we were young. Yet, the main focus has primarily been on the 3rd R: Recycle.

Yes, recycling is a good habit to be in and I don’t want you to change that, but I do want you to take a moment to think about your recycling habits. 

What is it that you recycle today?

• Cardboard boxes
• Paper–envelopes, printer paper, mail, etc.
• Food containers–from berries, takeout, nuts, milk, egg cartons, etc.
• Glass jars
• Anything with a little triangle and a “1” or “2” in the triangle…

We are in the habit of tossing anything into the recycling bin with the expectation that we are doing something beneficial for the environment. While we do this personally in our homes, this habit continues into retail operations as well. Think cardboard boxes, polybags, excessive tape, plastic hangers, etc., and most of these items have a pretty short life span within stores.

Retail supply chains have a lot of moving parts, literally and figuratively, which means there can be plenty of opportunity for growth in creating a circular supply chain.

Circularity is where a product is reused or regenerated for extended use. Its lifespan extends single-use and helps keep materials in the circulation of life rather than into landfills.

How can we be better about fostering a circular economy? Through prioritizing the first two R’s: Reduce and Reuse.

Applying “reduce and reuse”

Earlier this year, Gartner shared a study on where and what organizations will prioritize when it comes to sustainability goals in their supply chain. A major focus of this reprioritization is within packaging. 

Specifically, Gartner predicts 20% of organizations with sustainable packaging goals will shift their focus from recycling and eliminating plastics to reducing the carbon footprint of their packaging by 2026. 

Cardboard is another main culprit impacting your carbon footprint at a large scale. 

After speaking with some local retailers nearby, I learned that many retailers use a cardboard box just once before it gets broken down and immediately thrown into the recycling bin. Sometimes, it skips recycling and just gets thrown into the trash…

Not only is this detrimental to sustainability goals, it is also costly. Cardboard isn’t cheap. Imagine spending $1.50 on every cardboard box to transfer your apparel from a distribution center (DC) to a local store and you have 15 stores to replenish twice every month with a plethora of single-use boxes. That’s $1.50 you throw away per box, per transfer. Over an entire year, this number will add up quickly.

Where can retailers adjust to encourage less waste–for the environment and their bottom line?

3 supply chain tips

Conduct a Materials Audit

Gain a better understanding of the materials you are using to package and ship your products from warehouse to DC, or direct to your consumers. Is there extra packaging that doesn’t provide much value? Are your products safe and secure in what they are traveling in? Are there wasteful or non-recyclable materials being used that could be swapped? When you employ circular design principles at the front end, you can significantly reduce waste at the end of your product’s lifecycle through packaging and transportation alone. 

Reduce Air Space

Air space can have a major impact on your environmental impact. When less is shipped inside a box that will still take up the same amount of space in a freight truck regardless of what’s inside it, that means you’re paying for air to travel. Highly wasteful here both to the environment and your bottom line. Work with your packaging partner or 3PL to find ways to reduce your air space so you only ship what you need to in a package that adheres to your products.

Redesign Your Packaging

Are you still shipping in cardboard boxes? Do you have plastic casings tucking your products in? Are packing peanuts still in your expense report?  If so, what is holding you back from reusable packaging? Cardboard boxes, even when made from recycled materials, still only get used 1-4 times before they are discarded. Some don’t get recycled at all and end up in landfills. There are more sustainable options. Reusable packaging can increase your cost savings by 15% plus and can be reused up to 200 times depending on the partner you work with.. 

The hardest part of switching to a more sustainable approach in your supply chain is the switch itself. It doesn’t have to be challenging when you work with a partner that is there with you every step of the way. 

If you want to learn more about how to swap seamlessly, click here to schedule a call and we’ll strategize together.

Why quitting cardboard should be a top priority

If you’re anything like me, you recently found yourself basking in the glow of a beautiful holiday season. With a smile on your face you looked around a sitting room at your family members, felt the pleasant warmth of a full belly, watched exuberant children play with a new toy, and noticed a slight sense of panic due to the stacks of cardboard boxes littered around the room. 

This feeling of cardboard overwhelm would only increase once it came time to take out the recycling. Your bin, like mine, will undoubtedly be full. So maybe you’ll find yourself sneaking down the street at midnight, hoping you can find space in a neighbor’s recycling bin, knowing the entire time that every single bin will be just as full as your own… 

This will launch a weeks-long process in which you frantically search for recycling bin space and fight the rising tide of every-day recyclables that are building up behind your holiday cardboard log jam. 

If this feels familiar, that’s because we all live in a world powered by single-use cardboard. 

And if you feel bad about it, it’s not just you gnashing your teeth at all the waste you’re witnessing. 

The question is, how can any person or any company be part of the solution when we live in a world where every day in the retail supply chain looks and feels like your living room does on Christmas morning? 

Breaking down cardboard

Understanding the scope and scale of cardboard manufacturing:

• American factories generated more than 400 billion square feet of cardboard in 2020
• The global production of cardboard was estimated to be 66 million tons in 2020 
• Cardboard output is forecasted to increase to more than 72 million tons by 2022 (25% increase)
• By 2025, the international market for corrugated packaging will be over $205 billion
• Amazon shipped an estimated 7.7 billion packages in 2021 (however, not all of these were in cardboard boxes)
• Cardboard packaging can be recycled and made into new packaging up to 7 times (which really isn’t that many)

If global cardboard consumption continues at this rate, we’ll have a real problem…

Cardboard kills, somewhat literally

The problem with single-use cardboard is that from the beginning of its life to the end of its life, there’s no real solution to make it truly sustainable. 

Instead, we’re cutting down forests and using billions of gallons of water to produce it. Then, we recycle it assuming it actually does get recycled. Yet much of this single-use cardboard that powers the retail supply chain ends up in a landfill, while new cardboard is created destroying not only forests, but the entire surrounding habitat that nurtures our wildlife.

Think of it like this, a tree in the ground fights global warming by absorbing carbon dioxide. Cardboard in a landfill, which is where all cardboard eventually ends up, releases methane, one of the most harmful greenhouse gasses. The question is, do we want trees to be growing and storing carbon, or do we want to continue contributing to the global explosion in the use of corrugated cardboard packaging? 

You know that disheartening feeling of cardboard overwhelm that you had on Christmas? Take it and multiply it by 365 days and 300 million people’s needs to begin understanding the daily reality at retail locations and distribution centers. 

Is there a solution to this problem?

Since we’re all in this together, we should all start looking for solutions together. 

That’s why LimeLoop is dedicated to quitting cardboard. 

LimeLoop helps brands transition to reusable packaging from single-use cardboard in their supply chain from first mile, middle mile to last mile.

The future is bright in the reusable space and there is a world where you can save money and increase efficiency by switching away from single-use cardboard packaging. 

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of quitting cardboard, start with your free Sustainable Packaging Evaluation.

8 key takeaways I learned from retailers about "recycling" cardboard

I’ve spent the last 5 years of my life working to eliminate single-use packaging. Cutting the use of cardboard was part of that goal, but most of my focus was on cutting single-use plastic packaging used in direct to consumer e-commerce shipments. This was true for a variety of reasons, but the primary reason is that eliminating plastic gets all the headlines and regulatory attention when it comes to sustainable packaging. Cutting cardboard or “recycling” cardboard doesn’t get quite the same effect… Because plastic gets the headlines, that’s where retailers focus. And because I sell to retailers, that’s where my focus was as well. 

So, you can imagine my surprise when an employee at one of Limeloop’s customers made an off-hand comment that if I was truly worried about ending single-use packaging, I should be more focused on cardboard in their supply chain–not just focused on packaging direct to consumer.. 

While I am not a fan of single-use of any sort, cardboard has always been the somewhat “ok” material. Somewhat “ok” in the sense that it still can be recycled, though that process certainly isn’t perfect. Recycling cardboard is a beast of its own… 

This employee continued with, “We’re sending 500 boxes per store per month to replenish inventory, and only using those boxes a single time. That is a lot of wasted resources: water, energy and ultimately, money. We spend over $1 per box for that single-use cardboard.” 

Small-scale, $1/box is nothing. But we aren’t talking small-scale here. 500 boxes per month at $1.25 per box would add up to $7,500 a year on cardboard that gets used once and then tossed. These may not even apply to recycled cardboard boxes though many claim they to be using recycled cardboard boxes. And these numbers are on the smaller end of that scale… Large retailers around the nation, and the globe, experience these same price pains when it comes to their shipments. Why is it that retailers are willing to pay this kind of money for a single-use transportation item?  

“Well,” this customer had said, “We don’t have any choice. Cardboard is a fact of life.”

Despite this retail employee’s insistence, I wasn’t sure I totally bought what they said. Could it really be that most retailers in the U.S. are blowing through hundreds of thousands, or millions, on single-use cardboard boxes every year just to replenish their shelves? 

To find out, I decided to go undercover one afternoon in early November to visit 10 retailers who had sterling sustainability reputations. 

Behind closed doors

My skepticism didn’t last long.

First stop…

I started with a California based retailer that had around 100 retail locations. I walked into the store on a slow, cloudy day and quickly started a conversation with their very friendly store manager. 

“How,” I eventually asked her, “do your stores get replenished?” 

I quickly learned that store replenishment happened with cardboard, that they received around 300 boxes per month, and that they recycled all their cardboard. “However,” she’d said, sensing I had thoughts about recycling, “We know recycling isn’t actually a great option compared to reusing these boxes, but what else can we do?”

Second stop…

Next I visited a retailer with several hundred retail locations that is as hip and Gen Z friendly as a brand could be. I’d barely started speaking with the very young store associate before she’d said, “don’t worry. We recycle literally everything. We’ll do anything to promote sustainability.”  

I laughed, telling her that it wasn’t recycling that I was worried about, but the act of using a resource intensive material like cardboard just once.

“Oh wow,” she’d replied, “I’ve never thought of it like that. We go through a ton of cardboard! And yea, what a waste.”

The rest of the stores…

Store after store, the story was the same. I watched employees cut otherwise brand new boxes filled with sweaters and socks. I watched them unpack the boxes and then flatten them, sending them off to be recycled or discarded.

It’s not that recycling cardboard is bad, per se, but when you realize that every flattened box represents at least 70 liters of water, or that every 100 boxes represents an entire tree, one starts to realize that the environmental cost of using cardboard is astronomically high even when it is being recycled. 

So, what did I learn? 

8 key takeaways

• Store replenishment depends on single-use cardboard boxes
• Sustainability minded store employees feel bad about single-use cardboard boxes
• Breaking down cardboard boxes for recycling is a time consuming process for store employees 
• Cardboard is expensive
• Even companies that prioritize sustainability use cardboard boxes for shipping products 
• Many products arrive in stores in a plastic bag that is placed inside the single-use cardboard it is shipped within
• Both store employees and retail sustainability team members know single-use cardboard is wasteful, but don’t feel there is an alternative
• Cutting out the use of cardboard is low hanging fruit for retailers that are looking to increase operational sustainability and efficiency

Are you wondering how you can quit cardboard? If yes, click here to schedule a call and we’ll see what can do to help you get away from using resource intensive, single-use packaging in your supply chain.