Aussies care about waste—but we still want our parcels to look the part. The good news? You don't have to choose. With the right materials, your pack can protect the product, look tidy, and go in the right bin after use.
Below is a straight-talking guide to eco packaging in Australia. No buzzwords. Just what works, what to avoid, and where to start—whether you ship online, run a café, or send retail orders every day.
Quick Navigation
- What is eco friendly packaging?
- Why it matters in Australia
- Recyclable, biodegradable & compostable
- Sustainable food packaging
- Design basics: use less, label better
- Key materials
- How to start switching
- Related reading
- FAQs
What Is Eco Friendly Packaging?
Put simply, it's packaging that does its job without making a mess of the planet. It uses renewable, recycled or recyclable inputs and has a clear plan for end-of-life: reuse it, recycle it, or compost it—no guesswork.
Think through the whole life of the pack: how it's made, how it's used, how it ends. If it protects the goods, looks good on arrival, and keeps waste low, you're on the right track.
- Recyclable: becomes new material via kerbside streams.
- Compostable: breaks down into safe organic matter under compost conditions.
- Biodegradable: decomposes naturally (timeline varies—check claims).
- Reusable: sturdy enough to go another round.
Why It Matters in Australia
Councils here recycle a lot of paper and cardboard. Customers notice when you make disposal clear. Brands that keep it simple tend to get the thumbs-up—and repeat orders.
- Earns trust with people who care where packs end up.
- Keeps landfill down and litter out of the picture.
- Right-sizing cuts freight and storage costs.
- Local making means faster, steadier supply.
Recyclable, Biodegradable & Compostable
Recyclable
Cardboard and kraft paper are the no-drama choice. Widely accepted, easy to print, and tidy to store. If in doubt, start here.
Biodegradable
Useful for wraps, satchels and fillers that won't be around long. Look for credible claims and supporting test info—not just a green leaf icon.
Compostable
Great when a compost stream is available. In Australia, certifications to watch for: AS 4736 (commercial) and AS 5810 (home). Label clearly so people know what to do.
Sustainable Food Packaging
Hot food is unforgiving. You need strength, heat tolerance and a lid that behaves. Many venues are moving to fibre-based packs with plant-based linings.
- Paperboard trays/boxes: sturdy and recyclable when unlined.
- Bagasse: sugarcane by-product—compostable and tough.
- Compostable cups/lids: plant-based liners instead of plastic.
- Clear films: PLA for cold display (check local rules).
Always check council guidance. A small sign above the bin saves a lot of guessing.
Design Basics: Use Less, Label Better
1) Use Less Material
Tight fits reduce void fill and damage. Smaller, lighter cartons ship cheaper and store neater.
2) Keep Materials Simple
Avoid mixed laminates if you can. Single-material packs are faster to sort and more likely to be recycled.
3) Label Clearly
Skip the essays. A short prompt—“Recycle me” or “Home compostable”—plus an icon is plenty.
4) Print Light
Lighter ink coverage (water-based or soy) keeps fibres clean and helps downstream recycling.
Key Materials
| Material | Why it helps | Common uses |
|---|---|---|
| Cardboard | Recyclable, renewable, cost-effectiveWhy recycled cardboard is a smart default → | Mailer boxes, cartons, sleeves |
| Kraft paper | Compostable, recyclable, easy to brand | Bags, wrap, void fill |
| Bagasse | Sugarcane by-product; compostable | Food trays, clamshells |
| PLA bioplastic | Plant-based; compostable under set conditions | Cups, cold-food films |
| Bamboo pulp | Fast-growing, renewable fibre | Trays, cutlery, inserts |
| Aluminium | Infinitely recyclable | Lids, foils, food trays |
How to Start Switching
- List every pack you use and its material.
- Swap one item first. Prove it, then roll it out.
- Right-size packaging to cut void fill and freight.
- Add simple disposal labels to every pack.
- Choose an Australian maker for steadier lead times.
Ready to try eco options?
Explore recyclable mailer boxes like TSW-W1S10 (white) and TSW-BB10 (kraft), plus sturdy shipping cartons made here in Australia.
Related Reading
- Benefits of Using Recycled Cardboard Products — covers the environmental and business upsides of choosing recycled cardboard, plus practical tips for switching.
FAQs
Biodegradable vs compostable: which should I choose?
If a compost stream is likely, go compostable and say so on the pack. If kerbside is the safe bet, choose recyclable cardboard or kraft.
Can I recycle all eco packs in Australia?
Most paper and cardboard go in kerbside recycling. Compostables may need a facility (or a home heap if certified). Always check your council.
Does eco packaging cost more?
Sometimes up front. But right-sizing, fewer fillers and lower weights often swing the total cost back in your favour.
What's the easiest first step?
Swap plastic satchels for E-flute mailers or kraft bags. It's visible, simple and customers appreciate it.
The shift to better packaging is already happening. Pick one change, run a quick test, and build from there. Small steps compound—and your customers will notice.