Plastic is one of the most commonly used clamshell packaging solutions. Plastic tends to be durable, customizable, and secured, making it a top choice for many manufacturing industries. However, plastics are also bad for the environment and large amounts of plastics are never recycled. An estimated 150 million metric tons of plastic currently resides in the world?s oceans. A 2016 Ellen MacArthur Foundation report stated that if we do not take action, by the year 2050, there may be more plastic than fish in the ocean.
Increased recycling attempts
Some manufacturing industries are aware of this plastic problem. In an attempt to reduce the plastic pollution problem, many manufacturers are attempting to increase recycling numbers. Some states have implemented deposits on plastic bottles. One of the most popular manufacturing forms of plastics is with water and soda bottles. These states charge a minimal fee per can. Once the consumer returns, and recycles, the product they get their refund back. This has significantly increased recycling numbers, but not every state currently offers it.
The mistake of plastic pollution
Another large percentage of the plastic pollution problem comes from accidental pollution. Of the 78 million metric tons of plastic packaging produced worldwide in 2013, 40% was dumped in landfills and 32% was leaked into the environment, polluting both land and sea. Reusable packaging can help reduce this kind of waste. Some also believe that stricter recycling regulations should be set on manufacturing businesses. These mistakes should be severely fined and then, it is expected that the accidental pollution rates will decline.
How reusable packaging can help
One of the most promising solutions to the plastic pollution problem is reusable packaging. Clamshell packaging solutions, for example, can be used in retail packaging and even for box labels. This reusable clamshell product gives manufacturers the durability and strength that they need in a package but gives consumers the ability to reuse the product. Even manufacturing industries can reuse and recycle, thus significantly cutting down on the pollution problem. Clamshell packaging solutions will hopefully improve customer satisfaction and reduce plastic pollution.
The importance of consumer satisfaction
It is also important to consider consumer satisfaction when it comes to plastic design. According to a 2016 West Rock Consumer Insights Study, 26% of respondents said that the packaging of a product is extremely important to their overall satisfaction that is up from 18% in 2013. Consumers make buying decisions daily. These decisions include brand, brand packaging, and commercial responsibility. However, with customizable packaging options, such as clamshell packaging solutions, businesses can attract consumers with their packaging, while also still being environmentally responsible.
Alternatives to plastics
Perhaps the best chance of ridding the planet of the plastic pollution problem is with alternatives to plastic. There are other packaging materials that are just as strong and durable as plastics. With minor customizations, packaging materials like clam cases can be used to ship and store products. It is important to find a storage product that offers the same benefits of plastics, without the harmful pollution effects. Until this product emerges, manufacturers are unlikely to take that step to avoid plastic.
Plastics are used in many industries for storage and shipment purposes. Consumers are used to plastics and prefer their durability, making it difficult for businesses to switch. However, plastics are currently damaging and polluting our water supplies. A new product with the same advantages of plastic needs to be designed and pushed into widespread use.
