With 75% of consumers more likely to purchase brands that offer green or sustainable products (Deloitte), there’s no denying the importance of sustainability, especially when it comes to shipping. Various water-resistant packaging options exist, but planet-friendly coatings provide an environmentally friendly alternative with several brand and consumer benefits. In this blog post, we look at why water-resistant paper packaging is the future of sustainable shipping for eco-conscious brands.
What is water-resistant paper packaging?
Traditional water-resistant packaging relies on plastic to keep goods safe from moisture, but its inability to be recycled has a negative environmental impact and contributes to waste. By swapping to packaging with environmentally friendly coatings – which are 100% biodegradable and recyclable – businesses can enjoy the same level of product protection against moisture without compromising on their ‘green’ goals.
Water-resistant paper packaging meets the growing consumer expectation for eco-friendly packaging options while helping businesses reduce their environmental footprint. Plus, with one in five companies using plastic packaging in the UK seeing their costs increase by more than 75% due to the UK Plastic Packaging Tax (Packaging Insights), it’s also a cost-effective solution for brands.
What industries use water-resistant paper packaging?
Water-resistant packaging is incredibly versatile, offering protection across a range of industries and packaging needs. For example, in the produce sector, it helps to keep perishables fresh during transit, while in horticulture, it supports the quality and visual appeal of plants and flowers in wet conditions. For eCommerce businesses, especially those shipping goods worldwide, this packaging helps to reduce the risk of moisture damage when sending products from A to B.
What are the benefits of water-resistant paper packaging?
Water-resistant packaging maintains visual appeal and reduces damage
Water-resistant packaging helps maintain the visual appeal of goods in transit, a key factor in consumer satisfaction and purchase decisions and reduces the chance of damage. This protection ensures that items remain dry, intact and in perfect condition throughout the supply chain, regardless of exposure to rain, humidity, or spills. Customers can make a purchase knowing that the chance of an item arriving damaged is minimal, helping to increase their buying confidence and overall satisfaction with a brand.
It extends the shelf life of perishable goods and fresh produce
Water-resistant paper packaging can extend the shelf life of goods by creating a protective barrier between the product and outside factors, such as rain and accidental spillages. By keeping moisture away from goods during transit, water-resistant paper packaging helps maintain their quality and freshness, ensuring goods arrive in the same condition as when packed.
Moisture is one of the leading causes of spoilage and damage for many goods, especially perishable items such as fruit, vegetables, and flowers. When these items are exposed to water in the supply chain, they can quickly lose their freshness and appeal. Water-resistant paper packaging stops this from happening, ensuring that consumers receive goods in the condition they expect every time.
See why Ireland’s leading herb and leaf grower, McCormack Family Farms, swapped to planet-friendly water-resistant coatings for their fresh produce trays here.
Moisture-resistant packaging minimises the risk of mould
Water-resistant packaging minimises the risk of mould, bacteria, and contamination in packaged goods. The packaging is designed to protect against moisture, forming a barrier that shields products from the harmful impacts of humidity and rain during shipping. This helps maintain the safety, quality, and visual appeal of goods throughout the supply chain. By forming a protective barrier against humidity, water-resistant paper packaging ensures everything reaches its destination in pristine condition.
It boosts brand reputation and customer satisfaction
With many competing businesses out there, first impressions really do count. Goods that are protected and arrive in perfect condition impress consumers, leading to positive unboxing experiences and improved customer satisfaction. The unboxing experience is something that nearly half of UK shoppers consider important (Internet Retailing). When products arrive wet or damaged due to poor protection against moisture, customers are likely to feel frustrated, and this negatively impacts their perception of a brand. A poor unboxing experience can lead to negative reviews, impacting brand reputation and loyalty.
When customers experience a positive unboxing experience, there’s a higher chance of repeat purchases and word-of-mouth recommendations. This can expand a business’s customer base and solidify its positive reputation. It shows that a business is dedicated to maintaining high standards throughout the supply chain. 61% of consumers don’t believe that they should need to think about sustainability when shopping (Deloitte) and opting for eco-friendly water-resistant packaging shows a willingness to invest in shipping solutions that consumers can rely on, without worrying about their impact on the planet.
See how Brownings Ltd, a trade sign and display manufacturer, made an eco-conscious decision to replace their plastic poster frame backings with an environmentally friendly water-resistant paper solution here.
Water-resistant paper packaging reduces the hassle of returning products
Water-resistant paper packaging solves the issue of product returns by providing a reliable barrier against moisture. This protection ensures that items remain in good condition throughout their journey, reducing the likelihood of damage. For consumers, this means a stress-free shopping experience without the inconvenience and cost of returning damaged products. For businesses, it means lower rates of return, reduced costs associated with processing returns and improved customer satisfaction.
How is water-resistant paper packaging sustainable?
Water-resistant paper packaging created with the environment in mind is a planet-friendly option that appeals to eco-conscious consumers. Unlike traditional water-resistant packaging – made using plastic coatings, which are not recyclable and contribute to environmental waste – eco-friendly water-resistant paper packaging is designed to be kind to the planet. This aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable products, packaging and delivery, which 49% of people said they would pay more for (Deloitte). By opting for 100% recyclable water-resistant paper packaging, businesses can meet consumer demands while reducing their environmental footprint. This commitment to the environment can boost a brand’s reputation and attract eco-conscious customers, benefiting both the business and the planet.
At Smurfit Westrock, we prioritise the planet by using water-resistant paper packaging made from 100% recyclable coatings. As a planet-friendly and protective packaging option, water-resistant paper packaging keeps goods safe during transit while appealing to eco-conscious consumers. Get in touch to find out how sustainable shipping solutions can benefit your business today.
About Smurfit Westrock
Smurfit Westrock is a leading provider of paper-based packaging solutions in the world, with approximately 100,000 employees across 40 countries.
