There are a lot of options out there if you’re trying to move away from plastic. You’ve probably seen words like bioplastics, compostables, or even edible packaging floating around. All of them promise a greener future, but when it comes down to what people are actually using, paper is one of the most common.. and here's why.
Many alternatives, different challenges
Bioplastics are made from things like corn or sugarcane, which sounds eco-friendly. The catch is that most of them only break down in special industrial composting facilities that aren’t easy to find. Compostable bags are, sometimes, the same story. They can’t just go into your regular recycling bin. And reusable containers are great for local markets, but not very practical if you’re shipping nationwide.
That’s why so many businesses (big and small) are keeping it simple with paper.
1. It fits into everyday recycling
Paper is one of the most widely recycled materials in the world. Most communities already have systems in place for collecting and processing paper waste, which makes it easy for customers to dispose of responsibly.
Almost everyone already knows how to recycle paper. You toss it in the right bin, and it gets processed into something new.
Compared to bioplastics or compostables that need special facilities, paper fits seamlessly into the recycling system people already know.
2. Accessibility and cost
Paper-based packaging is easier to source and generally more affordable than niche alternatives. For small to medium-sized businesses, this makes it a realistic step toward sustainability without increasing overhead costs.
Products like paper mailers, water-activated tape, and glassine bags are available, effective, and do not require big changes to operations.
3. Performance and durability
Paper packaging isn’t flimsy as some might expect. Reinforced paper tape sticks better than most plastic tapes. Padded paper mailers protect items just like bubble mailers do, but without the plastic. Boxes, of course, are as reliable as ever. Paper can hold its own in the shipping world.
4. Consumer perception (it looks and feels eco-friendly)
Customers are not just looking for sustainable solutions. They are looking for packaging that feels good to receive.
Most bioplastics still look like regular plastic. Your customer may not even realise you spent extra to make the switch. Paper feels different. It looks eco-friendly, it feels eco-friendly, and it makes the unboxing experience way more thoughtful. Add a custom sticker or a bit of branding, and suddenly your package doesn’t just protect your product, it makes your brand memorable too!
5. Regulatory alignment
Governments are tightening rules on single-use plastics, but most regulations are friendlier toward paper. Unlike plastic alternatives that still fall into grey areas, paper is already accepted as a low-impact option. Choosing paper packaging now helps businesses stay ahead of compliance issues.
Looking at the bigger picture
Paper isn’t perfect, but it ticks more boxes than most alternatives: affordable, practical, recyclable, and customer-approved. That’s why businesses are leaning into paperization — it’s the easiest way to go greener without overcomplicating things.
At Impack, we’ve made it simple for you too. From biodegradable mailers to water-activated paper tape and our glassine bags, our products are built to help you replace plastic without stress. Think of it as packaging that works harder for your business while making your customers feel good about their choices.
