In today’s marketplace, brands across industries are reducing environmental impact while maintaining high-end presentation by embracing green packaging materials.
In this article, we’ll explore 8 green packaging examples that blend eco-friendly design with functionality, using materials like molded pulp, recycled paperboard, FSC®-certified board (FSC® C149826), recycled chipboard, and corrugated cardboard.
Green Packaging Materials
Before diving into the examples, let’s look at the most common green packaging materials and what makes them eco-friendly.
1. Molded Paper Pulp
- Made from up to 100% recycled paper
- Fully biodegradable and recyclable
- Custom-molded for box inserts, protective shipping trays, and more
2. Recycled Paperboard
- Can include post-industrial recycled material (PIR) and post-consumer recycled material (PCR)
- Typically biodegradable and recyclable
- Commonly used for folding cartons
3. FSC®-Certified Paperboard
- Sourced from responsibly managed forests
- Typically biodegradable and recyclable
- Ideal for folding cartons
(FSC® C149826)
4. Recycled Chipboard
- Made from recycled paper
- Typically biodegradable and recyclable
- Used to make rigid boxes
- The durability and luxurious aesthetic of rigid boxes encourages reuse
5. Corrugated Cardboard
- Contains an average of 52% recycled content
- The most widely recycled packaging material in the U.S.
- Typically biodegradable
- Can be laminated with printed paper for premium packaging
Green Packaging Examples
These sustainable materials can be used alone or in combination to create packaging solutions that reduce waste without sacrificing design. Here are 8 different examples:
1. Clamshell Molded Pulp Tray
A biodegradable, molded pulp clamshell used to ship delicate chocolate bunnies for a major confectionery brand, offering both protection and sustainability.
2. Molded Pulp + Paperboard Book-Style Package
A molded pulp tray with a paperboard book-style wrap creates a self-contained, fully recyclable package.
3. Paperboard Folding Carton + Molded Pulp Insert
Combining a paperboard folding carton with a molded pulp tray insert keeps products secure while minimizing plastic use.
4. Molded Pulp Blister Pack
A molded pulp tray adhered to a paperboard card delivers the same functionality as a traditional blister pack, but without the plastic.
5. Rigid Chipboard Box + Molded Pulp Insert
A telescoping rigid box made from recycled chipboard with a molded pulp insert.
6. FSC®-Certified Paperboard Folding Cartons
Secondary packaging for CBD oils, balms, and softgels, printed on responsibly sourced paperboard for a low environmental footprint. (FSC® C149826)
7. Rigid Chipboard Tray + Paperboard Sleeve and Insert
A sturdy chipboard tray paired with a printed paperboard sleeve and insert combines strength, visual appeal, and recyclability.
8. Litho-Laminated Corrugated Box
A corrugated box laminated with printed paperboard creates a durable packaging solution that also showcases high-end graphics.
What’s Next?
Ready to bring your own sustainable packaging vision to life? At Wynalda Packaging, we design and manufacture custom packaging solutions that balance creativity, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Speak with a packaging expert to get started!
