As consumers, we are increasingly concerned about the quality of packaging used by brands and mass distributors. Whether it’s plastic, cardboard, or glass, it’s clear that some have a significant impact on the environment in the short, medium, or long term.

Packaging: A significant impact on the planet

Packaging can have a negative impact on all living beings and the environment if waste management and sorting are not properly managed.

Soil and water pollution

Indeed, by releasing potentially harmful substances such as heavy metals or chemicals, discarded packaging can pollute soil and water, which can harm human health, fauna, and flora. When it ends up in the oceans, it can contribute to the disappearance of many marine species.

Greenhouse gas emissions

The decomposition of non-biodegradable packaging can take years or even decades and release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming

An impact on human and animal health

This point is closely related to the two previous ones. A non-biodegradable packaging has harmful consequences on the planet and by ricochets, on the beings which live there. Indeed, by contaminating the soil and water, packaging waste can make food and drinking water unfit for consumption. The emission of toxic gases can also affect the respiratory health of people and animals exposed.

How to limit the impact of packaging on the environment?

To limit the negative impacts of packaging on the environment, companies and brands can adopt eco-responsible practices, such as :

• Using recyclable and/or reusable packaging;

• Avoiding unnecessary packaging such as plastic bags and film;

• Raising awareness about environmental issues;

Consumers can also contribute by sorting packaging waste and supporting eco-responsible companies.

More useful info on branding and packaging available on our blog.