In today's market, sustainable packaging is no longer just a trend - it is a symbol of corporate responsibility and environmental awareness. Consumers are increasingly choosing products with eco-friendly packaging that reflects the brand's values, making sustainability an integral part of the brand's identity.
To create packaging that not only looks attractive but is also sustainable, understanding the differences in materials, recycling options and modern sustainable printing solutions.
That's why many businesses choose us - one of the most modern printing houses in the Baltic States, which for more than 25 years has been producing professional, aesthetic and environmentally responsible packaging solutions.
Cardboard packaging vs. plastic packaging: which is really more sustainable?
When discussing sustainable packaging, the question often arises: which material is more environmentally friendly - plastic or cardboard? While plastic has long dominated the market due to its strength and resistance to moisture, today cardboard is seen as a more sustainable option as it is produced from renewable sources and is easily recyclable.
Plastic packaging
Plastic has long been valued for its strength, moisture resistance and low cost. However, plastic has the disadvantage of extremely limited recycling and high environmental pollution. Most plastic waste decomposes after only a few centuries and some ends up in landfills and oceans. In addition, not all plastics are recyclable, so plastic packaging is increasingly seen as a temporary rather than a sustainable solution.
Cardboard packaging
Cardboard packaging is much easier to recycle, made from renewable sources and has a smaller CO₂ footprint. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but it also maintains a high aesthetic standard. Cardboard offers design freedom, allows for a wide range of printing and finishing solutions, and its surface is pleasant to the touch and is associated with high quality.
For many consumers, cardboard packaging is easier to touch and use. Also, cardboard packaging creates a positive impression of the brand and the product. Research shows that consumers have more trust in brands that choose eco-friendly packaging, making cardboard not only a symbol of sustainability but also of brand trust.
"Trustpack is manufactured using FSC® Certified Cardboardensuring that raw material comes from responsibly managed forests. This allows our customers to choose recyclable materials that meet both quality and sustainability standards.
So while plastic may seem economically attractive, in the long term Trustpack experts advise to choose eco-friendly packaging that is a far more sustainable, versatile and user-friendly solution.
Key materials for sustainable packaging: what to know
Creating sustainable packaging always starts with the right materials. They determine not only the quality and aesthetics of the packaging, but also the impact it will have on the environment.
FSC® Certified Cardboard
It is one of the most popular raw materials for sustainable packaging. FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certification guarantees that the cardboard used is made from responsibly managed forests. The forests where this raw material is grown are managed in a way that preserves biodiversity, social responsibility and economic balance. This packaging is not only easily recyclable, but also helps brands communicate their sustainability principles - seeing the FSC® label on the packaging sends a clear signal to the consumer that the product contributes to responsible consumption. It is also increasingly required by many international partners and procurement authorities, making it a necessity rather than an advantage.
Biodegradable paper and cardboard
Naturally occurring, biodegradable materials made from renewable sources such as cellulose or wood pulp, and left to nature, can completely decompose under the influence of micro-organisms, moisture and oxygen. These materials are suitable for composting (if not treated with synthetic additives) and the decomposition process can take just a few months. This is a great option for brands looking to reduce their plastic use and carbon footprint. In addition, such packaging can be recycled and reused, contributing to the circular economy.
The right materials make it possible to create functional, aesthetic and environmentally friendly packaging - whether in the food, cosmetics or industrial sectors. When choosing sustainable packaging, it's worth thinking not about how long it will last in the warehouse, but about the impact it will have on the world.
Sustainability certificates: how they ensure responsible packaging
When choosing a packaging manufacturer or printing partner, it is not enough to choose sustainable materials. It is important that the entire supply chain - from raw materials to production processes - is managed according to international standards. Certifications help ensure both quality and environmental responsibility.
ISO 9001 – Quality Management System
ISO 9001 sets out the requirements for a quality management system that helps companies to ensure efficient processes, customer orientation and continuous improvement. The certification demonstrates that production processes are consistent, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing product reliability.
ISO 14001 – Environmental Management System
ISO 14001 helps companies to systematically reduce their environmental impact. The standard promotes efficient waste management, resource conservation and compliance with environmental legislation. The certificate demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and responsible practices, ensuring that packaging production adheres to ecological principles.
FSSC 22000 – Food Safety Management System
FSSC 22000 is one of the world's most stringent standards for food packaging and related production chains. The certificate certifies that processes meet international food safety requirements, ensuring hygiene, product safety, quality and traceability throughout the supply chain. The standard combines the ISO 22000 quality management structure, mandatory hygiene programmes and additional FSSC specific requirements.
FSC® - Standards for Responsible Forestry
FSC® certification ensures that the raw material for packaging comes from responsibly managed forests. There are two main FSC standards:
- STD-40-004 (Chain of Custody) - Chain of Custody regulates the traceability and documentation of raw materials to ensure that the product is made from certified forests.
- STD-50-001 - Use of the trademark, sets out the rules for the correct use of the FSC logo on products and documents to ensure transparency and consumer confidence.
As well as meeting EU sustainability requirements, the certificates help businesses build trust with consumers, demonstrate responsibility and strengthen brand image.
Trustpack experience: sustainable solutions for your business
„Trustpack“ - is a reliable packaging partner that understands that every project requires not only creativity but also responsibility. We offer a wide range of eco-friendly packaging, use recyclable materials and constantly update our sustainable printing solutions to achieve the best result in terms of both design and sustainability.
Sustainability in packaging is not a temporary trend, but a strategic decision that builds consumer confidence and long-term business growth. Contact us at - Together, we'll create packaging that's not only functional, but also distinctive, reflecting your brand values and environmental responsibility.