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Ecology

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy
Circular packaging, Ecology, Industrial packaging

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

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In a Circular Economy model where waste becomes a resource, the paper and board industry has a key role to play.

 

We know that the future of packaging involves incorporating sustainable materials, reducing the ecological footprint associated with its production and use, and that its waste can be revalued, without neglecting the purpose for which it is designed: to protect the product. In this future, cartonboard packaging will be a priority.

 

Cardboard as a sustainable packaging material

 

Cardboard is a natural, renewable, recyclable and biodegradable material. In recent years, it has been replacing other traditional packaging materials such as plastic.

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

Paper and cardboard fibers are also much stronger than previously thought. It has been shown that fiber-based packaging material – paper, cardboard, paperboard and folding cartons – can be recycled more than 25 times, retaining their mechanical properties for re-integration into the production process.

This makes it one of the most sustainable materials in the packaging sector and one of the preferred packaging solutions for the consumer.

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

Why is cardboard packaging preferred by consumers?

 

The way companies package their products is a matter of concern for consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions.

The European Association of Carton and Cartonboard Manufacturers reveals that 4 out of 5 consumers prefer cartons to plastic. In its report, it says that more than half of the consumers surveyed in Spain claim to have switched brands because the packaging was not recyclable or because they used unnecessary packaging. It adds that 82 percent would be willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

Most commonly used carton packaging

For companies interested in incorporating circularity into their packaging, cardboard packaging represents a zero-waste system of significant social, economic and environmental value.

Because of its versatility, it can be used throughout the packaging chain:

  1. Primary packaging, which is directly in contact with the product.

  2. Packaging for Ecommerce.

  3. Cargo units for storage and transport of consumer goods.

  4. Protective elements, such as interior fillers to pack merchandise shipments, or corners to avoid friction during transport.

The most commonly used cartons are:

Corrugated cardboard boxes

Can be used in standard size or large volume for packing and palletizing light and heavy goods. They are foldable, which facilitates storage, reducing space.

 

Pallet boxes

They are corrugated cardboard boxes placed on a wooden pallet or cardboard. Its use as commercial exhibitors has been extended by its profitability, since they serve both as product container shelf and advertising support, because the cardboard can be easily printed and incorporate gaps or shelves to place the product.

 

The cardboard pallet

Consists of corrugated cardboard sheets and solid cardboard blocks that are inserted as pillars. Resistant and lighter than the wooden pallet, it is also valid for international transport, without having to undergo phytosanitary treatment.

 

The road map to a Circular Economy is written on cardboard.

 

Contact us if you are interested in adding reusable packaging to your logistics.

Trending packaging
Circular packaging, Ecology, Industrial packaging

What will be new in Packaging in 2023?

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The way companies distribute their products is constantly evolving. Aspects as diverse as legislation, profitability, innovation and consumer preferences condition the changes to which logistics processes are subjected in order to meet quality, safety and efficiency requirements.

 

As far as packaging design is concerned, everything indicates that packaging in the year 2023 will continue to follow the path of sustainability it has taken in recent years, albeit under the imperative of regulations that will entail new fiscal obligations.

Packaging

As manufacturers of packaging solutions, we review the main innovations that 2023 will bring to the packaging sector.

 

Plastic tax

The Law on Waste and Contaminated Soils for a Circular Economy, which was passed last year, aims to improve the management of waste generated in Spain. Among other measures, it has established a “green tax” on plastic, in force since January 1.

 

According to this, all non-reusable primary, secondary or tertiary packaging containing plastic will be subject to a charge of €0.45/kg. This amount may be reduced if part of the product comes from recycled material.

 

Ecodesign

Spanish companies have been working for years to incorporate sustainability into their production processes in order to reduce their environmental footprint.

 

In fact, last year more than 2,000 Spanish companies implemented 4,632 sustainable design measures to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging.

Packaging

Achieving the EU’s reduction, reuse and recyclability objectives means knowing the principles of ecopackaging and knowing how to apply them to the design and development of sustainable packaging.

 

The trend will continue to be to opt for packaging that, with the minimum amount of material possible, guarantees product protection throughout the distribution chain, reducing environmental impact and the economic cost associated with transportation, while meeting consumer expectations.

 

Growth of online commerce

Online commerce will continue to grow, which will have an impact on packaging and logistics. Demand for packaging solutions such as corrugated boxes and products for protecting and cushioning goods will increase, and new specialty packaging and customized shipping options will emerge.

Ecommerce

Smart packaging

The use of technology applied to the field of packaging is driving a new generation of packaging. We are talking about smart packaging, which is increasingly being applied in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

 

Packaging that will change color if the product is about to expire, or that emits particles for preservation, will see the light of day throughout the year.

It is becoming increasingly common to integrate smart labels, RFID, QR codes and NFC chips into packaging. These devices provide more and better information on product quality, storage conditions and traceability.

 

Automation with “Pick and Place” robots will also be extended to more industries in order to bring more efficiency and flexibility to packaging processes.

 

What do you think of these changes, and would you add any more to the list?

wooden packaging
Circular packaging, Ecology

Sustainable forests to drive a greener, cleaner and more responsible economy

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Forests are one of the most valuable natural resources for their social, economic and environmental benefits. Wood is also the only material that continues to absorb and store CO2 from the atmosphere for years.

For the European Union, forests are a priority. The new EU Forestry Strategy 2030 includes measures for the protection, conservation and sustainable management of forests, within the framework of the European Green Deal to curb climate change. The aim is to promote forest management practices that are more respectful of the climate and biodiversity, as well as to encourage the responsible use of wood.

Wood is a recyclable, renewable and biodegradable raw material. Qualities that fit with the principles of the circular economy. An intelligent use of forests would help to protect the environment, repopulate territories and generate employment. That is why organizations wishing to move towards a responsible economy model include in their plans the PEFC chain of custody certification, which endorses good practices along the entire wood value chain.

 

What is Chain of Custody?

 

Chain of Custody certification allows companies to label their products as coming from sustainable logging or recycling.

This certification can be done by two entities:

  • Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®).

  • Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Both represent a useful tool for tracing the sustainability of any type of product made from forest raw materials, both for the companies that market them and for the consumers who buy them.

In Spain, 1,646 companies already certify their products through the PEFC forest management system and the number is increasing every year. The certified forest area has also grown, as has the number of foresters and forest owners, as can be seen in the search engine for certified areas and the search engine for Sustainable Forest Management certificates on the PEFC Spain website.

 

Benefits of PEFC certified Wood

 

Chain of Custody certification is essential for companies seeking to access environmentally and socially responsible markets or to demonstrate compliance with public or private purchasing policies that specify the sourcing of environmentally responsible materials as a requirement. For example, the European Union Ecolabel system for furniture or the LEED rating system issued by the Green Building Council in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design category.

The PEFC seal is key to the development of the market for sustainable forest-based products, which are increasingly in demand and gaining social recognition.

 

How to recognize a product of sustainable forest origin?

 

Consumers can identify and choose products based on a responsible forest management model. In fact, 8 out of 10 consumers prefer companies to label the sustainable forestry products they use.

A product or packaging of sustainable forest origin is distinguished by the FSC®/PEFC seal with the visible logo, accompanied by a numerical code composed of nine digits, unique to each certified company.

It is surprising to see the number and diversity of items that can be found with the FSC®/PEFC label or printed on cardboard or wood: furniture, textiles and footwear, food, hygiene products, as well as wooden containers and packaging.

As consumers, we play a decisive role in the future of our forests and the development of a greener and more sustainable economy. Turn to certified wood suppliers.

Cardboard Pallets
Circular packaging, Ecology, Transport and logistics

Ecological Cardboard Pallets: Are they the alternative to wooden pallets?

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The pallet is one of the most widely used elements in the packaging industry. Its use facilitates the handling, loading, transport and storage of goods.

Due to its resistance to support any type of load, grouping of goods and ease of handling, the wooden pallet occupies most of the market, being one of the most widely used packaging systems for export.

However, it is indisputable that wood is an increasingly scarce resource. In recent months, supply problems have led to a rise in the price of wood, which, together with a growing environmental awareness, is driving companies to look for sustainable and cost-effective packaging solutions. One such solution is the cardboard pallet.

 

What are the characteristics of the cardboard pallet?

The cardboard pallet is composed of corrugated cardboard sheets and solid cardboard blocks that are inserted as pillars. This manufacturing system gives it a stacking strength similar to that of a wooden pallet, since it can carry loads of over 600 kilograms.

It is also much lighter. A cardboard pallet weighs up to 10 times less than a wooden pallet. This reduces the risk of occupational accidents during handling and damage to palletized products.

Cardboard pallets are manufactured with the same dimensions as a traditional pallet, so they are suitable for use with forklifts.

 

What are the advantages of cardboard pallets over wooden pallets?

The demand for sustainable transport packaging has sparked interest in the cardboard pallet, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industry, where its advantages over traditional palletizing systems have not gone unnoticed:

  • Stronger and lighter than the wooden pallet. A cardboard pallet weighs between 1 and 5 kilos compared to 10-25 kilos for wood. This facilitates handling during transport and storage and reduces warehouse space.
  • It is valid for export without the use of phytosanitary treatments, which are mandatory for wooden pallets for international transport, according to ISPM15 standard.
  • Easy recycling, in any common paper container.
  • It is customizable.
  • Reduces CO2 emissions.

The search for sustainable alternatives for packaging all kinds of goods is one of the trends that will mark the packaging industry in the coming years. Cardboard packaging, and in particular the cardboard pallet, meets the requirements of quality, efficiency and recyclability demanded by an industry committed to efficient resource management and respect for the environment.

Did you know about this type of packaging? Which of its qualities do you find most interesting?

Returnable packaging plastic
Circular packaging, Ecology, Folding packaging, Industrial packaging

Types of Returnable Packaging III: Plastic Packages

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As we told you a few days ago, during this month in the blog, we talked about the different types of returnable packaging that exist.
In this post, we define plastic returnable packaging whose purpose is optimal for transportation and storage over long periods of time.

 

The logistics industry is beginning to clearly perceive the advantages of using returnable transport packaging systems.

Compared to single-use packaging, returnable packaging optimizes the supply chain, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. Although this type of packaging requires an initial investment, it usually pays for itself within the first few months and leads to significant savings in logistics costs. See for yourself by calculating how much you can save per year with returnable packaging.

There is a wide range of returnable packaging solutions for every need. We have already explained which wooden returnable packaging is commonly used and which metal returnable packaging is the most commonly used. In this post we will explain the most commonly used plastic returnable packaging and its benefits.

 

Properties of plastic Packaging

 

Plastic is one of the most commonly used packaging materials. It stands out for its lightness, resistance and high protection against external factors such as humidity, temperature or microorganisms. All these innate characteristics have made it an essential packaging material for the food, agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors.

Plastic packaging can be easily handled. And because of its durability, it is a returnable packaging with an excellent price/performance ratio. Especially now, when due to the scarcity of raw materials such as wood and the rise in market prices, it is a very competitive product.

 

What are the most common plastic returnable packages?

The most commonly used plastic returnable packaging models are:

They are detachable, stackable and very versatile. They can be folded, taking up less storage space. They save 85% in return transport and storage. There is the possibility of providing the box with a lock, securing the goods. Manufactured in polyethylene and polypropylene. They are suitable for food use and are available in different sizes and types.

Foldable plastic box-FlexiCrate ©
Returnable packaging- Plastic
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Returnable packaging - Plastic Packaging

  • Removable and reusable plastic packaging.

This type of plastic packaging is characterized by its strength, low weight, reusability and re-stackability. They are available in several standard sizes that cover most of the needs of the packaging sector.

Plastic collapsible crate – Container storage box
Returnable Packaging -Plastic Packaging

Manufactured to support medium and heavy loads, plastic pallets are lightweight, durable and reusable. They are available in a range of standard sizes.

Returnable Packaging_plastic packages

  • Lego pallet/paletkit.

It is a modular plastic pallet that can be disassembled for its return. The parts that deteriorate over time can be easily replaced.  In addition, it is dimensional according to your needs. Being modular, it can be assembled as long as required and benefit from a logistical return.

 

  • Woodyplast collars.

These collars are manufactured with a combination of materials: 70% wood (spruce) and 30% plastic (PP + additives). This mixture is then thermoplastically processed into granules and WPC is obtained. They are highly resistant to moisture and are 100% recyclable. They are available in standard sizes.

Returnable Packaging_plastic packages

In short, there are different plastic returnable packaging that can be an efficient and cost-effective alternative to your conventional packaging system.

 

Contact 360 Eco Packaging. We will help you find the right solution for your logistics processes.

Returnable packaging metal
Circular packaging, Ecology, Industrial packaging

Types of returnable packaging II: Metal Packagings

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Although less used than other packaging materials such as wood or plastic, metal has a number of properties that make it an interesting packaging for transport.

From the point of view of protection, metal packaging stands out for its durability and resistance, being a guarantee in the case of goods that have to undergo long periods of storage and transport. For this reason, metal packaging is common in the automotive industry.

 

From the point of view of sustainability, metal is 100% reusable and recyclable, and its properties remain unchanged for a long time. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of all metals ever produced are still preserved. This makes it an option to consider when evaluating it as a returnable packaging.

 

The most frequently used returnable metal packaging on the market are:

  • Reusable metal packaging.

Removable metal crate or cage, made entirely of metal. Composed of sheet metal sides and metal base designed for stacking. It offers high mechanical resistance and resistance to high temperatures. It is dismountable and allows a high reusability.

Metal Packaging - Products form Dajusa and CarrosPF

Metal Packaging – Products form Dajusa and CarrosPF

 

 

 

  • Modular metal box.

Enclosed metal trolley ideal for packing, transporting and storing cabling and equipment. The interior of the box is modular, which means that the accessories can be placed without tools on the rails adapted for this purpose and on four different levels. It can be opened on both sides without tools and is stackable.

Metal returnable packaging - Cargo-Cart product

Metal returnable packaging – Cargo-Cart product


Metal returnable packaging - Cargo-Cart product

Metal returnable packaging – Cargo-Cart product

 

  • Flight cases.

Customized metallic box with high resistance. Suitable for air, sea and land transport. This type of packaging is used in a wide variety of sectors: aeronautics, industry, audiovisual, medicine, tooling, etc.

Flight case - Product from Thomann

Flight case – Product from Thomann

It is a product with very high mechanical resistance and great reusability.

 

  • Aluminum pallet.

Aluminum pallets are manufactured from a wide range of high quality aluminum profiles. They have a high mechanical resistance of up to 3000 kg. load. They are available in standard sizes and with the possibility of custom manufacturing.

Metal pallet, metal returnable packaging. Product of exportaglobal.co.uk

Metal pallet, metal returnable packaging. Product of exportaglobal.co.uk


Metal pallet, metal returnable packaging. Product of exportaglobal.co.uk

Metal pallet, metal returnable packaging. Product of exportaglobal.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not all returnable packaging is cost-effective for all companies. Contact packaging professionals to see if it is feasible to replace your current packaging with returnable packaging to optimize your supply chain.

Returnable Packaging Wooden Packaging
Circular packaging, Ecology, Industrial packaging

Types of Returnable Packaging (I): Wooden Packaging

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Returnable packaging is a solution that more and more companies incorporate into their supply chain for its environmental and economic benefits.

Depending on the material, we can classify the different types of returnable packaging into three groups: wood, metal and plastic.

In this post we describe the most common returnable wooden packaging and its advantages.

 

Advantages of wood as returnable Packaging

Due to its strength, wood continues to be one of the most widely used materials in packaging for the transport of large or heavy goods. It also acts as a thermal and acoustic insulator and is highly resistant to fire. It is a durable, reusable and 100% recyclable material.

For this reason, wood packaging is considered one of the most sustainable and highest quality for export.
In this regard, it should be remembered that wood packaging for export is regulated under the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures ISPM-15, which requires treatment to prevent pests.

 

What are the most commonly used returnable wooden transport packages?

There are different designs of wooden returnable packaging to adapt to any merchandise.

The most common are:

  • Foldable packaging made of processed wood board and wood,

Clipping Crate ® model.

It is a model of high quality reusable box, patented by 360 Eco Packaging. It has a simple and ergonomic assembly and disassembly, without tools. It minimizes transport and storage space when not in use.

It can be manufactured in different types of wood boards (mainly plywood, OSB3, MDF and chipboard). The Clipping Crate® is standardized in its dimensions and can be made to measure. It has a replacement service for damaged parts for all its ranges.

Types of Returnable Packaging I_ Wooden Packaging

Types of Returnable Packaging I- Wooden Packaging

 

It is made of plywood board with steel reinforcements on the sides, which allows the box to be folded. It is reusable, stackable and available in different sizes.

 

It is a modular packaging composed of wooden rings that allow the height to be modified as required. They are made of pine wood boards joined by galvanized steel hinges, which are stacked on a pallet.

Types of Returnable Packaging I- Wooden Packaging

Types of Returnable Packaging I- Wooden Packaging

 

This returnable wooden packaging solution stands out for its simple anchoring system and its ability to be reused. The frame is collapsible, which represents an efficient alternative to save costs in storage and transportation.

It is an economical, resistant and durable packaging model, as it can have a useful life of up to 10 years. It is replaceable. If a fence is damaged, it can be quickly replaced by another of identical characteristics.

 

To prevent the entry of dust or rain, specially designed covers are available for this product. It is available in standard sizes and can be made to measure.

 

Wooden supports with boards with or without separation between them and wooden blocks or slats at the base to facilitate the transport and mobility of the load. Wooden pallets can be open or closed, with two or four entrances, blind, reversible or reinforced to support heavy loads. They are available in standard sizes and can be made to measure.

 

Packing provided with wooden boards, with a construction system similar to that of a wooden box, but with a greater separation of the boards from each other, which makes it lighter. They are manufactured with metal reinforcements so that they can be disassembled and reused. Standard or custom-made.

 

If you want to know how to reduce logistic costs with a returnable packaging, please contact our technical department.

We will study the most suitable solution for your product and logistic process.

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY
Circular packaging, Ecology

World Environment Day

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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

Yesterday was World Environment Day and we would like to remind you of the concept of Sustainable Packaging and its importance in preserving our planet. Because there is no Planet B.

 

Sustainable Packaging pursues greater planning in the life cycle of packaging. It is based on the principles of the Circular Economy: redesign, reduce, reuse, repair, renew, recover and recycle. In practice, this means minimizing the amount of raw materials in our packaging that can be recycled or reused.

 

We must not forget that consumers rely on environmentally responsible brands. Companies that use sustainable packaging are reinforced in their image and social reputation.

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