How the COVID-19 Pandemic Has Affected the Packaging Industry
It’s been more than a year since the first COVID-19 case broke out in the United States. Since then, many businesses all over the country have undergone some major changes. Some businesses flourished, others have taken a harder hit. It’s been interesting, to say the least, for the packing industry.
No one really knows for sure how long it will be until we have the coronavirus under our control, but for now, packaging industries are changing with the times. Interestingly enough, the packaging industry is also working in its efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19. What other kinds of approaches are there to know about? We take a look.
Single-Use Packaging
People became more concerned with the kinds of surfaces that the coronavirus can live on. Based on studies, the virus can survive up to twenty-four hours on both cardboard and plastic surfaces. Because of this, companies have opted for single-use packaging. This kind of packaging is used mainly to be disposed of right after. Due to the fact that they are to be disposed of right away, they are made with recyclable materials, that way it does not contribute to waste buildup.
Bans on Reusable Bags
As we mentioned earlier, companies are trying to consider the spread of the virus and what kinds of surfaces it can be contracted through. Bans have either been placed or lifted on certain practices of packaging. In this case, reusable bags, such as the plastic bags you find at supermarkets, have been banned in certain areas of the country. In fact, some stores have been charging for single-use packaging due to the amount that is being used.
Less Cardboard
Cardboard, similar to plastic, can carry the virus around as well. It can be hard not to rely on cardboard, especially now that people are ordering more online, but companies are doing what they can to keep this material to a minimum. Many businesses are trying to replace cardboard materials with those that also come from sustainable and recyclable materials. This allows consumers to throw their bags out right away and recycle as they please.
Becoming More Sustainable
Sustainability and hygienic needs have been trending topics amongst many packaging industries and businesses that heavily utilize packaging. Many of the new sustainable packaging products are made out of fiber-based materials, which makes it easier for them to be broken down and recycled. It also allows companies to worry less about costs and any negative effects that some types of packaging might impose.
Use of Plant-Based Materials
Plant-based materials are the most non-toxic when it comes to the environment. Companies are becoming more and more aware of their customers’ health due to the pandemic, therefore they are also considering, how materials will affect the environment, which ultimately affects everyone. These items are made to convert into renewed raw materials, that way less packaging supplies are used. Some businesses have admitted that recycling is not enough, therefore, plant-based materials, which decompose faster, are more ideal and effective.
Mono-material Packaging
Mono-material packaging is a product or method of packaging that only uses one type of material. This type of packaging can be made out of the most common forms of materials such as paper, plastic, glass, fabric, or others. Similar to plant-based materials, they are also much easier to break down considering mono-material packages are only made out of one source. Monomaterial packaging rules out plastic materials, which can be held somewhat responsible for the spread of COVID-19.
Investing in In-House Digital Printing
Some businesses decided to find their own ways to alter their methods of packaging to comply with safety regulations. In the efforts to create their own packaging, many businesses have looked implemented in-house digital printing. It provides them with the flexibility they need to keep up with the consumer demands, especially as they have risen during the pandemic. Once the pandemic hit, the demand for digital printing also rose dramatically.
Contact Labeltech Inc., Today
At Labeltech Inc., we are not only operating for the sake of our business, but for others as well. We want to help businesses thrive with the help of our labeling services. Contact us today to learn more about how our company is operating and how we are providing services.