Environmentally friendly packaging materials mainly include degradable materials, natural biomaterials, recycled materials, and innovative biobased materials, which can be divided into the following main types:
1, Degradable materials
1.Biodegradable plastics
- Polylactic acid (PLA): Made from plant resources such as corn starch and cassava, it can be completely degraded into water and carbon dioxide, and is suitable for packaging bags, fast food boxes, etc.
- Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA): made by microbial fermentation of raw materials such as corn, with properties similar to traditional plastics, used for food films, bottles, etc.
- Starch based plastics: made from corn and wheat starch, can replace traditional plastics, but attention should be paid to competition with food resources.
2.Water soluble materials
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA): soluble in water without residue, commonly used for small item packaging to reduce plastic pollution.
2, Natural biomaterials
1.Plant fibers and mycelial materials
- Seaweed packaging: edible and completely biodegradable, suitable for food packaging.
- Mycelium packaging: Utilizing fungal hyphae combined with agricultural waste to decompose into organic fertilizers in a short period of time.
- Plant fiber non-woven fabric: made from agricultural waste such as sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw, breathable and wear-resistant.
2.Edible materials
Starch based film/paper: used for candy and pastry packaging, it melts upon entry and is moisture-proof and corrosion-resistant.
3, Regenerated and recycled materials
1.Recycled paper products
- Corrugated cardboard/recycled cardboard: reduces carbon emissions by 60%, can be recycled 5-7 times, but it is necessary to avoid methane problems caused by landfilling.
- Pulp molding: A cushioning material made from waste paper, replacing foam plastics.
2.Recycled plastic
Recycled polyethylene (rPE) and recycled polypropylene (rPP): Recycling plastics for further processing to reduce the consumption of primary resources.
4, Innovative and environmentally friendly fillers
Degradable fillers
- Starch foam particles: instead of traditional foam plastics, it can be dissolved in water without pollution.
- Recycled paper air cushion/packaged peanuts: Good cushioning performance and biodegradable.
Summary: Environmentally friendly packaging materials reduce environmental impact through their biodegradability, renewability, and low pollution characteristics. The core categories include biodegradable plastics, natural plant fibers, recycled paper products, and innovative fillers. When choosing, material characteristics and specific needs should be taken into account, such as prioritizing PLA or seaweed materials for food packaging, and using pulp molding or starch granules for cushioning filling.
