Plastic pollution is a growing concern as it infiltrates oceans, landfills, and even the air. Addressing this issue begins with reducing our consumption, particularly in product manufacturing and packaging. Plastic waste from packaging constitutes a significant portion of municipal solid waste and as online shopping tendencies continue to surge amongst consumers, there seems to be no sign of slowing down.
E-commerce powerhouses aren’t the only sizeable waste contributors, though. The food hospitality and distribution sectors of the world are also amassing large amounts of waste throughout their day-to-day operations as well. In this way, the two industries share a way in which they can positively change: considering more sustainable alternatives in packaging.
As mentioned, more manufacturers are adopting new waste control programs and sustainable practices. For example, in the way of packaging, alternatives like glass, paper, and cardboard, though potentially less cost-effective, offer easier recyclability. Innovative techniques such as ultrasonic sealing, when combined with paper, can also create more sustainable packaging options without compromising safety. While the global challenge of plastic waste requires extensive efforts, modernizing packaging practices and implementing cutting-edge manufacturing techniques can make a difference today.
To learn more about the ways in which organizations are creating a more sustainable future by reducing their plastic packaging use, continue reading on to the infographic accompanying this post.
The Problem With Plastic Packaging, provided by Herrmann Ultrasonics, a company offering a suite of ultrasonic metal welding machines