Recyclable, Biodegradable, or Compostable? How to understand different types of packaging
When it comes to cosmetic product packaging you may not realise quite how many different types there are. Much of the packaging will look the same, however, there are multiple differences that you may not be able to pick up on.
To help you work out the impact that the packaging you are using may have on the wider world, we have put together our guide to the different types of packaging and what to look out for.
One of the most common forms of cosmetic product packaging you will come across is carton packaging. Carton packaging is not able to be recycled like other forms of cardboard. This is because the carton is covered in a thin and often very hard-to-detect plastic coating, which helps to protect the packaging from surface damage, preserves the colours and keeps the box shiny.
This plastic film will only be removed when the box is soaked in water. Else, you may not realise that it is there.
The trouble with this type of packaging is that it has a negative impact on the environment. Rather than being recycled and able to be reused, it is going to end up in a landfill where it will not be able to degrade and will contribute to overall pollution.
As the name suggests, this is packaging that is able to be recycled. Once it has been used, it can either be placed in a recycling collection point, which is then taken away for processing, or it can be collected by your local council to be taken to their recycling centre. The packaging will be processed and will then be used again.
Compostable and biodegradable packaging
Another form of packaging is either compostable or biodegradable packaging which can either be recycled or it will fully degrade in the soil. Ideal option for the environment!
The main difference between the two is that compostable packaging breaks down much more easily and can be added directly to compost if you have one.
Biodegradable packaging isn't suitable to be added to the compost, because it takes a little bit longer to degrade fully in the soil.
Have you guessed which type of packaging we use?
Wild Ona boxes are recyclable and biodegradable. If you have the option to recycle, please do so, and if not, rest assured the boxes will fully degrade and disappear in the soil (don't confuse it with plastic-coated cartons that will leave microplastics behind).
In offering this we are showing that we really care about the world around us and we are taking serious steps to make it a better place. If you have any questions or comments about this blog post or our packaging, please pop them below!