Tag Archives: Circular packaging

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

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

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?

 

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?

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

Types of Returnable Packaging III: Plastic Packages

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.

Circular packaging, Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

Presenting our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

Presenting our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

On May 11, 12 and 13, 360 Eco Packaging Encaja Embalajes had the opportunity to present its packaging solutions for the solar industry at the Intersolar Europe Fair, the most important exhibition of the sector worldwide, held in Munich (Germany).

The meeting was attended by Jesús Álvarez, commercial director, and José Ramón Novoa (ASTUREX; Sociedad de Promoción Exterior Principado de Asturias S.A.)

Our participation was possible thanks to the Sociedad de Promoción Exterior Principado de Asturias S.A. (ASTUREX), which organized a joint stand with 8 Asturian companies that supply products and services related to the solar energy value chain.

With commercial actions such as Intersolar Europe, ASTUREX contributes to a greater presence of Asturian companies in international markets.

On this occasion, among all the participating companies, we have highlighted the potential of the region as a producer of goods and services in the value chain of renewable energies linked to solar energy.

We were accompanied by: Alusín Solar S.L.U., Distribuciones Solares del Principado S.L. (DSP Solar), Duro Felguera S.A., Ingeniería y Suministros Asturias S.A., Mecanizados CAS S.A., Procinsa Energías Renovables S.L. and Temper Energy International S.L. (Temper).

 

As part of the fair, 360 Eco Packaging – Encaja Embalajes informed attendees about the most efficient packaging for transporting solar panels, sustainable packaging and the reusability of wooden packaging and its impact on logistics costs, as well as the specifications that this type of packaging must meet for export.

 

Why Intersolar Europe?

Intersolar Europe is one of the most significant events in the energy sector calendar.

The event brings together more than 50,000 visitors and around 1,500 exhibitors interested in showcasing their innovative products, solutions and business models for the energy transition and security of supply in Europe.

 

The importance of Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

As industrial packaging manufacturers, we remain attentive to market demands in order to offer solutions that meet the needs of the supply chains of each sector and customer. 

It has been an honour for us to present our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe.

See you at the next edition!

Presenting our sustainable packaging at Intersolar Europe

Presenting our sustainable packaging at Intersolar Europe

Circular packaging, Ecology

World Environment Day

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.

Circular packaging
Circular packaging

Circular Packaging for a New Cycle

It is a fact that the intensive use of natural resources and the volume of waste we generate have a huge environmental impact. It is also a fact that through a Circular Economy we can transform our throwaway model into a new, more balanced and respectful production system, able to provide value thanks to continuous and regenerative cycles.

At 360 Eco Packaging we are contributing to a sustainable economic model.

Our company has spent years helping companies in a wide variety of sectors to be more productive and reduce their environmental footprint through efficient, sustainable and profitable packaging systems.

And we do this from a circular perspective based on three principles:

  • Reduce and valorize our resources.

Our raw materials come from certified sustainable sources, as well as from our own manufacturing surpluses. We also apply circular designs to our packaging solutions, based on technical, economic and ecological feasibility diagnoses.

  • Extending the useful life of our products.

We manufacture returnable packaging that can be reused and recycled by companies, allowing them to save costs, produce less waste and optimize their logistics processes.

  • Identify opportunities for improvement in the supply chain of our customers.

We provide an advisory service and optimization of packaging processes, creating circular packaging solutions for every need.

With this work philosophy we have developed patents in returnable packaging, such as our Clipping Crate® and obtained certifications in ISO9001, PEFC/FSC chain of custody and ISPM15 (phytosanitary regulations for export), among others.

We also participate as a member of the Subcommittee CTN 192 SC 03 (UNE/ISO) in the development of a new regulation in the field of transport of dangerous goods, together with AENOR and the Ministry of Industry. We also belong to the board of directors of the Innovation Club in Asturias and collaborate in the development of new projects with leading technology centers and companies such as AIDIMME and Aglae.

 

For our company, being sustainable has become a competitive advantage.

For this reason, we want to share our knowledge and experience with companies and professionals who are still unaware of the benefits of the circular economy or are wondering how to implement a circular strategy in their packaging systems.

We want this blog to serve as a meeting point where we can provide resources on trends, regulations, programs and success stories that facilitate the practical application of a circular economy.

The future will be circular. And as in every cycle, there is always a starting point.

We hope that each post will be a source of inspiration that helps to see packaging in a different way.

 

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