Environmentally Safe Packaging Materials

Businesses are finding that green, or sustainable, practices, such as using environmentally friendly or biodegradable packaging, is not only responsible, but it can also attract customers, increase revenue and reduce costs, according to the business advisory firm Grant Thornton.

Packaging

Environmentally friendly packaging can be made from anything from recycled paper bags to biodegradable plates, food containers, and boxes. Biodegradable plastics can be made from vegetable oils and starches rather than petroleum, according to NewBiodegradable.com.

Large Retailers

Large retailers like Walmart and Whole Foods are now requiring their suppliers to follow guidelines such as reducing plastic in packaging and increasing the level of recyclable content and use of post-consumer recycled materials in packaging material, according to Earth911.com.

Food and Beverage Industry

According to Grant Thornton, almost 58% of food and beverage makers claim that most of their sold products are packaged in "recyclable and/or reusable" packaging. The IRS also offers tax credits for green practices, including more favorable depreciation deductions for equipment that collects, distributes or recycles certain materials, which can include packaging.

References

• Grant Thornton: Coloring
• Earth911: Get the Facts
• New Biodegradable: Biodegradable Facts