Most businesses understand that when they send freight, the more sustainable the packaging, the less it will cost them both for the transport company costs and the costs of purchasing the packaging. Many types of packaging have a reason for their use and existence. Companies try to keep their goods in top shape and packaging can help with this.
However, most people are aware that it is often a marketing ploy alone that dictates the type of packaging.
One ‘mistake’ that most companies make on purpose is using a bottle or package that is much larger than needed for what it contains. We’ve all seen vitamin and other pills in large bottles that are only filled to two thirds capacity. The reason for this is to make the product more visible on the shelf and to make the customer think they are getting a lot for the cost of the product.
Things like cereal come in two packets. One to keep it fresh and the other to prevent the contents being crushed in transit and handling. While the amount in the packet goes nowhere near to filling it, companies cite the contents ‘may’ have become more compacted during transport. In fact, they too, want their product to take up a large amount of shelf space in the shop so it is highly visible – and they also like it if the customer believes they are getting more than is actually in the packet.
Chips are a big waste of packaging, since many chip packets are made from seven layers of plastic and foil. This may keep the product fresh and stop it being crushed, but there is no way to separate the layers, meaning it can’t be recycled.
Foods packaged into single serve containers are also an expensive mistake for companies who do it. Who wants a single serve of something they like anyway? A double or treble size would soon be eaten and halve the costs of the packaging. Some companies even package a single banana in cellophane. What’s wrong with its skin being the package it comes in? It’s just such a waste and adds to the cost of the item as well as the amount of landfill.
Plastic water bottles are recyclable, but studies show that less than 14% end up being sent to recycling centres. That means the rest go into landfill where they take many years to break down. Why do we need them at all? Tap water is fresh and good and you can use a refillable water bottle to take with you.
Toothpaste tubes are also unsustainable. The amount of toothpaste goes to waste because you can’t get that last bit out and this means the container is not suitable for recycling. They too, have double packaging.