Background
As consumers focus more on sustainability, the plastics and packaging industry has experienced a backlash because of perceived risks to the environment. Whether it’s a ban on plastic bags or plastic forks, consumers are looking for alternatives to single use plastic packaging. Perhaps one of the greatest obstacles being faced directly within the packaging industry is being able to supply the consumer with a sustainable or eco-friendly container that is able to support the product as is intended and meet consumer expectations. In response to growing consumer interest, a number of global consumer packaged goods companies have pledged to move towards 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025.
What Does It Mean?
One of the most difficult aspects of addressing these new consumer expectations for packaging is actually understanding what “sustainability” means. Is the concept of sustainable packaging synonymous with recycling? What truly is a compostable package? Is there such a thing as biodegradable package? Is the understanding unanimous amongst all consumers, brands and the market? The topic of “sustainable” packaging is even more complex when you factor in consumer confusion around the nature of recycling packaging in general.
Materials, Cost & Functionality
The challenge is that often the most sustainable options may compromise the cost and functionality that brands are accustomed to. Replacing polyethylene on a formed paper cup may come with its own performance characteristics. Brands will have to strike a fine balance between the best eco-friendly package without sacrificing a cost effective, reliable product.
Double H & Sustainability
Double H holds several certifications including FSC (Forest Stewardship Council Chain-of-Custody Certification) and SFI (Sustainable Forest Initiative) that support sustainability.
Innovation and exploration into sustainable packaging is a top priority. The company is committed to reducing the amount of materials needed without sacrificing quality or product safety, developing alternatives to replace traditional, non-renewable, or non-recyclable materials, and optimizing freight to reduce the overall carbon footprint.
About Double H:
Double H Plastics is a manufacturer of Plastic & Paperboard Packaging that services industries such as Ice Cream & Dairy, Consumer Products, Cereals, Convenience Foods and Pet Care. Through a unique injection molding process, we use paperboard inserts and a variety of plastic resins to mold custom packaging solutions, including functional tamper evident lids. This process allows for exceptional graphics and superior functionality in a wide array of shapes and sizes.
In addition, Double H can supply Formed Paperboard Cups and Containers as well as Thinwall Injection Molded components and IML Packages. Sizes range from 3.6 Ounces to 5 Quarts.
