Rethinking Packaging Materials in a Greener World
As the packaging industry shifts toward sustainability, many companies are re-evaluating their materials. Among the top alternatives to conventional plastic are recyclable plastics and compostable plastics. But while both are considered “green,” they are far from equal in terms of performance, environmental impact, and logistics.
Recyclable vs. Compostable: What’s the Difference?
Recyclable plastic can be collected and reprocessed into raw material—if it’s clean, properly sorted, and compatible with local recycling systems. It’s a circular option, but one that depends heavily on how end users dispose of the material.
Compostable plastic, on the other hand, is designed to break down under specific conditions—usually in industrial composting facilities. It should not be confused with biodegradable plastic, and must not be placed in regular recycling bins. Its value lies entirely in how and where it’s disposed of.
Logistics Matter: Transport Constraints Are Key
In crating services and large-scale transport, packaging materials must withstand humidity, temperature shifts, friction, and stacking loads. Here, recyclable plastics often have the upper hand in terms of mechanical strength and long-distance durability.
At Creopack, we help clients select the most appropriate material based on their actual supply chain. For air or sea freight, optimized crating and durable packaging make all the difference in safety and cost efficiency.
The Right Material Depends on Use
No material is perfect. Compostable plastics are suitable for short-term, single-use packaging, particularly in areas with access to proper composting infrastructure. Recyclable options remain the most reliable for technical or long-haul transport, especially when integrated into a recovery or reuse system.
That’s why our team evaluates every need individually: resistance, transport type, brand values, regulations, and disposal environment. Want to know how we assess packaging performance? Check out our packaging test guide.
Hybrid Packaging: When One Material Isn’t Enough
Our shipping crates and custom designs can combine several materials to match your technical and environmental goals. For example, our hybrid crate offers the lightness of cardboard and the strength of wood—an innovative, durable solution for modern logistics.
Need Help Choosing the Right Material?
Let’s work together to build packaging that fits your usage, transport conditions, and environmental vision.
Contact Creopack to get started.