Benefits Of Paper-Based Packaging

Author: Adelaide

Jul. 28, 2025

Packaging & Printing

Benefits Of Paper-Based Packaging

People frequently think of recycled plastic, aluminum, and glass when they think of ecologically responsible packaging. However, paper-based packaging is one of the most environmentally-friendly solutions available, with options beyond what was previously feasible. The advantages of paper-based packaging in all of its forms are discussed below.

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Paper packing, often known as paper containers, is a high-efficiency and low-cost solution for moving, carrying, and storing various products. Paper-based packaging is becoming more popular daily, as it is designed to be durable yet lightweight, and it can be customized to fulfill product or customer-specific demands.

Paper-based packaging made from renewable resources will offer us a sustainable, healthy, and safe environment, among other benefits.

Benefits Of Paper-Based Packaging

Manufacturers commonly utilize paper packaging because it offers customers simple storage and practical packaging that is attractive and easy to handle. Furthermore, because it can be made from recycled materials and comes in various forms and sizes, this packaging is extremely environmentally friendly.

Paper-based packaging, often known as paper containers, is more extensively used and accepted than plastic containers for various reasons that benefit both the end-user and the environment.

Multi Usage

Paper packaging may be reused as wrapping paper, fiberboard, and paper bags, among other things. However, plastic bags are non-biodegradable and extremely harmful to the environment. Enhanced paper bags enable the storage of dry items on shelves, preserving the food and shelving.

Bio-based barrier materials might someday replace plastic in many applications, with substantial paper bottles designed for fizzy beverages and milk.

Top Shelf Solution

Brands benefit from the ease and visibility of paper packaging. Aside from that, its benefits include the simplicity with which items may exhibit their distinctive packaging and visuals to communicate a brand’s narrative and, greater product protection

Renewable Resources

Paper recycling mills harvest discarded paper products and boxes and transform them into packaging and other paper-based goods. Another advantage of utilizing paper is that it encourages businesses to grow and preserve trees. For example, Atlantic Packaging saves more than 14 Million trees a year by making 100% recycled paper using old corrugated cartons instead of virgin pulp. Paper can be recycled by up to 7 times allowing us to use the resources over and over without having to rely on new material. Paper also does not cause harm to the environment even when it deteriorates making it a safer alternative.

Wildlife Benefits

If thrown outside, paper bag packaging is unlikely to damage wildlife. In contrast, if consumed or coiled around the neck or limbs of animals, plastic bags can be fatal. Plastic may be mistaken for food by some animals and marine life. Plastic intake by wildlife creates intestinal obstruction, causing them to starve to death. It might take anything from 10 to a thousand years for plastic bags to degrade. Compared to paper bag packaging, which can take up to a month to decompose, it’s evident that switching would significantly influence keeping our animals safe.

High Durability

Paper bag packaging is both eco-friendly and durable. Heavyweights can be carried in corrugated boxes, which can also stand upright. Progressive paper bag packaging will keep the contents fresh. In addition, paper can lock in odors while keeping pests out, making it a good choice for tightly wrapped items like flour and spices.

Attractiveness

When choosing a product based on its packaging, customers prefer paper as it gives a more environmentally friendly feel to customers instead of plastic. Retail packaging and corrugated box packaging appeal to two-thirds of customers as people are becoming more conscious about the environment. Customers are more mindful about their purchasing decisions and would like to do their part to preserve the planet. More and more people are turning to reusable and recyclable packaging as compared to alternative packaging materials such as plastic. 

Biodegradable Material

Paper containers are created from renewable materials like paper and paperboard, ensuring that they are environmentally friendly. The basic material, like wood, may be supplied from sustainably managed forests and is easily recyclable and biodegradable by definition. Atlantic has taken preservation a step further by not relying on virgin pulp. We stand for sustainability and ensure the planet is greener by manufacturing 100% recyclable linerboard.

Choose Paper Packaging, Choose Atlantic Packaging

Our mission at Atlantic Packaging is to improve the sustainability index for our partners and nurture the environment. We make recycled paper to ensure a healthy environment for everyone. Furthermore, our paper container provides producers with effective packaging that stands out in the crowd while maintaining the freshness of their products at a low cost.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Paper and Plastic Packaging

Questions and Answers to Paper or Plastic?

Choosing the right packaging is about more than just protecting products, it’s about protecting the planet too. While plastic may seem like a more cost-effective choice, it often leads to higher breakages, more returns to process, and impacts brand and customer loyalty. It is valued for its lightweight properties and flexibility. However, with increasing regulations, supply chain challenges, and consumer demand for sustainability, many businesses are re-evaluating their packaging choices and looking at paper-based alternatives.

But is paper always the better choice? In this guide, we break down the advantages, challenges, and real impact of both materials to help businesses make an informed decision.

Is Paper Biodegradable?

One of the most significant advantages of paper packaging is that it is biodegradable. Unlike plastic, which can take hundreds of years to break down, paper decomposes naturally within weeks or months. However, the biodegradability of paper depends on a few factors:

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  • Uncoated, recycled paper biodegrades faster, whereas plastic-coated or laminated paper slows down the decomposition process.
  • Recycled paper packaging significantly reduces environmental impact, using fewer raw materials and cutting carbon emissions compared to virgin paper production.

Using FSC-certified, recycled paper-based packaging is the best way to minimise environmental impact while maintaining packaging performance.

How Long Does Paper Take to Decompose?

Under ideal conditions, uncoated paper can break down within 2 to 6 weeks, whereas plastic can take centuries. However, factors such as coatings, thickness, and disposal methods influence decomposition time.
While paper is biodegradable, businesses must also consider its full life cycle impact, from raw material sourcing to disposal. Protega Global’s 100% recycled paper-based packaging solutions offer a way to reduce waste while maintaining packaging performance.

Is Paper Packaging the Best Sustainable Choice?

For businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact, paper-based packaging offers a compelling alternative to plastic. However, while paper is often seen as the greener choice, it comes with its own set of challenges. Below, we break down the advantages and considerations of paper packaging.

Why Businesses Choose Paper Packaging

Paper packaging has become a popular alternative to plastic, largely due to its sustainable reputation and recyclability. With growing consumer demand for sustainable choices, businesses are shifting towards paper-based solutions that align with their environmental goals.

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  • Recyclable & Biodegradable: Paper packaging is recyclable up to 7 times and naturally biodegradable, making it a strong choice for businesses prioritising sustainability. Protega’s FSC-certified paper solutions provide both protection and eco-credentials without compromise. 
  • Plastic-Free & Renewable: Sourced from natural fibres, paper is a renewable resource, helping businesses reduce their reliance on fossil-fuel-based plastics.
  • A Circular Economy Fit: With effective waste management, paper-based packaging supports a closed-loop recycling system, reducing landfill dependency.
  • Consumer Preference: Studies show that 76% of consumers prefer paper-based packaging over plastic (Two Sides), making it a valuable brand decision.
  • Carbon Footprint Reduction: Using 100% recycled paper can reduce carbon emissions by up to 38% compared to virgin paper, making it a sustainable choice for businesses looking to lower their environmental impact.

Challenges of Paper Packaging

Despite its sustainability benefits, paper packaging does come with some drawbacks, particularly in terms of durability and production impact.

  • Durability & Strength: While HexaFil and paper void fill provide excellent protection, some paper-based packaging solutions may not offer the same flexibility or moisture resistance as plastic alternatives. However, innovative paper-based technologies are continuously improving in this area.
  • Weight & Cost Factors: Paper packaging is often heavier than plastic, which can contribute to higher transport emissions and costs.

How Does Plastic Compare to Paper Packaging?

Plastic packaging has been widely used in the industry for decades, primarily due to its perceived affordability and versatility. However, its long-term impact on the environment and product protection is under increasing scrutiny. Below, we explore why some businesses still rely on plastic packaging and the challenges that come with it.

  • Lightweight & Perceived Cost Benefits: Plastic is often seen as an affordable option due to its low weight and initial cost, but increased breakages, returns, and waste disposal fees can make it less cost-effective in the long run.
  • Advancements in Recycling: New chemical recycling technologies are improving plastic’s potential for circular use.

Challenges of Plastic Packaging

Plastic packaging, despite its advantages, poses significant environmental concerns, particularly in waste management and disposal.

  • Non-Biodegradable & Persistent Waste: Unlike paper, most plastics take centuries to break down, leading to long-term pollution and environmental harm. This remains a key driver for businesses seeking sustainable packaging alternatives.
  • Recycling Complexities: Many plastics are difficult to recycle due to contamination and mixed-material compositions.
  • Regulatory & Consumer Shifts: The Plastic Packaging Tax in the UK and growing consumer demand for sustainable alternatives are driving businesses towards plastic-free options.
  • Not as Protective as Paper: Unlike paper-based packaging, plastic transfers impact, increasing product breakages during transit.

Is Plastic Packaging Better Than Paper?

While plastic is often seen as a cost-effective choice, paper-based packaging provides stronger protection, greater recyclability, and a lower environmental impact. The right solution depends on factors such as business priorities, regulatory requirements, and long-term sustainability goals.

The Shift Toward Sustainable Packaging

As sustainability becomes a priority across industries, businesses must consider the long-term environmental impact of their packaging choices. Paper-based solutions such as Hexcel Wrap, paper void fill, and plastic-free protective packaging from Protega Global provide sustainable alternatives without compromising on protection.

For businesses ready to transition to more sustainable packaging, key considerations include:

  • Choosing FSC-certified, 100% recycled paper packaging to reduce environmental impact.
  • Utilising Protega’s HexaFil system and paper void fill for protective packaging needs.
  • Balancing sustainability with functionality to ensure efficiency and protection.

Is Paper Packaging More Sustainable Than Plastic?

Paper is more sustainable in terms of recyclability and biodegradability. Using recycled paper-based solutions, like those from Protega Global, helps reduce this impact while maintaining performance.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Both paper and plastic packaging have their benefits, but for businesses focused on reducing waste, meeting sustainability targets, and enhancing brand reputation, biodegradable, recyclable paper-based solutions are the smarter choice.

As innovation in sustainable packaging continues, businesses no longer need to compromise between sustainable solutions and product protection.

Looking for a more sustainable packaging solution? Discover how Protega Global’s range of paper-based protective packaging can support your business in reducing waste while maintaining performance.

Explore Our Sustainable Packaging Solutions

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