At EcoPackables, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s our blueprint for innovation. That’s why we recently commissioned a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to better understand the environmental footprint of our packaging materials, including our latest material additions, and help our clients make smarter, more sustainable choices.
Compliant with internationally recognized standards like ISO 14040/14044 and EN 15804+A2, this LCA evaluated six of our leading materials — including compostable PLA/PBAT film, Renewa™ (ocean-bound plastic), recycled paper, recycled LDPE, and BioLaminate™ — and compared them to conventional virgin LDPE mailers.
Why We Did This
The demand for eco-friendly packaging is growing — but “eco” can mean different things depending on the environmental factor you’re focused on. Carbon emissions, fossil fuel use, water consumption, end-of-life recyclability — these are just a few of the elements that matter.
By analyzing each material’s impact across 11 core environmental categories — from climate change to water use and resource depletion — we can provide data-backed clarity in a space that often feels overwhelming or ambiguous.
What We Found
Every material has its strengths. Some highlights from our study include:
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Recycled paper had the lowest carbon footprint, emitting just 0.0018 kg CO₂-eq per mailer — nearly 90% less than virgin plastic.
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Recycled LDPE reduced fossil fuel use by 93% compared to virgin LDPE, making it a smart choice for clients who prioritize circularity and energy reduction.
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Ocean-bound HDPE diverted waste from coastal regions and performed similarly to PCR plastic in terms of emissions.
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While compostable PLA/PBAT had a higher carbon footprint due to agricultural inputs and overseas production, it still serves as a valuable option for composting-centric disposal strategies.
What This Means for You
Whether you're a retailer, e-commerce brand, or fulfillment partner, our LCA enables you to:
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Choose the best material based on your sustainability goals — be it reducing CO₂, minimizing water use, or eliminating plastic.
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Back up your environmental claims with transparent, third-party data — not just green language.
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Communicate your impact to your customers, investors, or regulators with confidence and credibility.
We’re not just offering “greener” packaging — we’re offering proof.
This LCA is a step toward greater accountability — for us, and for the industry. And we're just getting started.
Let’s redefine what sustainable packaging really means — together.