Real-world examples of examples of sustainable packaging alternatives

Fast examples of sustainable packaging alternatives you already know

Before we get into the newer materials and trends, let’s start with a few familiar examples of sustainable packaging alternatives that you’ve probably already seen:

Think about simple brown cardboard boxes made from recycled content instead of shiny laminated boxes. Or glass jars that you can reuse for leftovers instead of thin, crinkly plastic tubs. Padded mailers filled with shredded paper instead of bubble wrap. These are the best examples of how small, boring choices can quietly cut a lot of waste.

When people ask for an example of sustainable packaging that works for almost any product, recycled cardboard is usually at the top of the list. It’s widely accepted in curbside recycling across the U.S., and the recycling rate for corrugated cardboard has hovered around 90% in recent years, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.

Those are the low-hanging fruit. Now let’s walk through more specific, modern examples of sustainable packaging alternatives and how they fit into a zero waste mindset.

Fiber-based packaging: paper, cardboard, and molded pulp

If you want practical, scalable examples of sustainable packaging alternatives, fiber-based materials are where most companies start.

Cardboard shipping boxes made from high recycled content are one of the best examples of a material that’s already part of existing recycling systems. Brands like Amazon, Target, and most major retailers now use boxes with recycled content and minimal printing to make recycling easier.

Molded pulp is another strong example of sustainable packaging. You’ve seen it around eggs, electronics, and even wine bottles. Instead of Styrofoam, the product sits in a molded tray made from recycled paper or agricultural waste fibers. Companies like Apple famously shifted from foam to molded fiber for many of their devices, showing how premium products can use low-impact packaging.

For food and takeout, unlined paperboard containers and fiber clamshells are better examples of packaging than black plastic trays that many recycling facilities can’t process. Just be cautious: when you see “compostable” paper products, check whether they’re lined with PFAS or other chemicals. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has flagged PFAS as persistent and harmful chemicals, so choosing PFAS-free options actually matters. You can read more on PFAS concerns at the EPA site: https://www.epa.gov/pfas

Reusable and refillable systems: packaging you don’t throw away

If you’re serious about zero waste, some of the strongest examples of sustainable packaging alternatives are the ones you don’t throw out at all.

Refillable cleaning products are a great example of this. Brands sell concentrated tablets or refills in small paper packets that you mix with water in a sturdy glass or aluminum bottle you keep for years. Instead of shipping heavy water in single-use plastic, you’re just shipping the active ingredients.

Refill stations in grocery stores are another real example of sustainable packaging in action. Shoppers bring their own containers and refill bulk bins with rice, beans, nuts, or even shampoo and dish soap. Co-ops and zero waste stores across the U.S. and Europe are expanding these systems, and even big chains are experimenting with refill programs.

Cosmetics and personal care brands are offering refill pods for deodorant, makeup compacts, and skincare. The outer case is designed to last, while the refill uses less material and often comes in simple cardboard. These are some of the best examples of how design can cut waste without sacrificing aesthetics.

From a zero waste perspective, these examples include the most powerful approach: refuse and reuse before you even think about recycling.

Plant-based and compostable materials: from mushrooms to seaweed

This is where things get interesting—and sometimes overhyped. Still, there are real examples of sustainable packaging alternatives in this category that are worth watching.

Mushroom packaging is probably the most famous example of a newer material. Companies grow mycelium (the root-like structure of fungi) around agricultural waste to create a sturdy, foam-like insert that can replace Styrofoam. After use, it can be composted in industrial or sometimes home compost systems. Brands shipping fragile items—like electronics or glass—use mushroom packaging as a protective cushion.

Bagasse, a fibrous byproduct from sugarcane processing, is another example of a plant-based alternative. It’s used to make takeout containers, plates, and bowls. When unlined and free from synthetic coatings, these items can often be composted, reducing landfill waste from food service.

Seaweed-based films and edible coatings are emerging examples of sustainable packaging alternatives for food. Some startups are wrapping single-serve snacks or condiments in seaweed-based films that can dissolve in hot water or be composted. While still niche, these experiments show how natural materials can replace plastic wrappers in certain uses.

When considering compostable packaging, it’s wise to check whether your local area has industrial composting facilities. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers background on composting and organics recycling here: https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home

Without proper composting access, some “compostable” plastics behave more like regular trash. So while these are exciting examples of sustainable packaging alternatives, they work best when paired with the right infrastructure.

Glass, metal, and other durable materials

Sometimes the most sustainable move is to go old-school. Glass jars, metal tins, and aluminum bottles are classic examples of sustainable packaging alternatives that can be reused many times.

Glass is inert, doesn’t leach chemicals into food, and can be endlessly recycled without losing quality. That’s why glass bottles for milk, sauces, and beverages are coming back in some local delivery systems. In many cities, refillable glass bottle programs for milk or water are making a quiet comeback.

Aluminum is another strong example of a circular material. Aluminum cans already have high recycling rates in the U.S., and the material can be recycled repeatedly. Some personal care brands now use aluminum bottles for shampoos, soaps, and lotions, offering mail-back or in-store refill options.

Metal tins for tea, coffee, spices, or cosmetics are also practical examples of sustainable packaging. They’re sturdy enough to reuse for years, and when they finally wear out, they’re recyclable in most curbside programs.

These examples include a common theme: designing packaging that’s worth keeping.

Minimalist and right-sized packaging: less is more

Sometimes the best examples of sustainable packaging alternatives aren’t about new materials at all—they’re about using less of everything.

Right-sized boxes that fit the product tightly mean fewer void fillers like air pillows or foam. E-commerce brands are increasingly using software to match product dimensions to the smallest possible box. That might sound boring, but it reduces both material use and shipping emissions.

Brands that skip unnecessary layers—no plastic window on the box, no extra wrap, no decorative ribbon—are quietly offering some of the best examples of low-impact design. A simple paper band around a bar of soap, for instance, does the job without creating trash that lingers for decades.

For digital products, gift cards, and subscriptions, the most sustainable packaging example of all is none. Sending a code by email requires no physical packaging. That doesn’t work for everything, of course, but it’s a reminder that reducing demand for stuff is part of any honest zero waste strategy.

Real examples from brands moving the needle

If you’re looking for real examples of sustainable packaging alternatives in the wild, a few patterns are worth noticing instead of focusing on any one brand.

Many apparel companies now ship clothing in recycled paper mailers or reusable fabric bags instead of plastic poly mailers. Outdoor and athletic brands in particular are experimenting with packaging that can be reused for returns or storage.

Grocery delivery services are testing reusable insulated totes and ice packs that customers hand back at the next delivery. This replaces single-use foam coolers and plastic bags. Some meal kit companies have shifted from plastic insulation to paper-based liners that are curbside recyclable.

Even big-box retailers are cutting plastic from their store-brand product lines, switching to paperboard, metal, or glass where possible. These examples include everything from laundry detergent to snacks.

If you’re curious about how packaging waste fits into the bigger climate and health picture, the World Health Organization offers background on environmental health and pollution here: https://www.who.int/health-topics/environmental-health

How to choose better packaging in your own life

You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Start by noticing packaging and asking a few simple questions. This is where those examples of sustainable packaging alternatives become your personal checklist.

Ask yourself:

• Can I buy this in glass, metal, or cardboard instead of plastic?
• Is there a refillable or bulk option at a local store?
• Is the package clearly recyclable in my city’s system?
• Is there a version with less packaging overall?

For example, choosing a big bag of rice in paper over multiple small plastic bags is a straightforward example of a better choice. Buying shampoo bars wrapped in paper instead of liquid shampoo in plastic is another real example of reducing waste.

If you’re unsure what your local recycling system actually accepts, check your city or county’s website. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also provides general recycling guidance here: https://www.epa.gov/recycle

These small shifts add up, especially when you repeat them every week.

FAQ: examples of sustainable packaging, answered simply

What are some easy examples of sustainable packaging alternatives I can switch to right now?
Some of the easiest swaps include buying products in glass jars instead of plastic, choosing cardboard boxes over plastic clamshells, and using paper mailers instead of plastic envelopes for shipping. Shampoo bars in paper, bar soap instead of bottled body wash, and bulk-bin pantry staples in your own containers are all simple, real examples.

Can you give an example of packaging that sounds green but isn’t very sustainable?
A common example of this is “biodegradable” plastic that doesn’t meet any composting standard and can’t be recycled. It often behaves like regular plastic in landfills and can contaminate recycling streams. Another example is heavily printed, laminated cardboard that’s technically recyclable but rarely accepted because of coatings and mixed materials.

Are compostable plastics good examples of sustainable packaging alternatives?
They can be, but only when there’s access to industrial composting and the material actually meets recognized standards. Without the right facility, compostable plastics may not break down properly. That’s why paper, cardboard, and reusable packaging are often better examples of sustainable packaging in everyday life.

What are the best examples of packaging for a small online business trying to be more sustainable?
For many small businesses, the best examples include right-sized recycled cardboard boxes, paper tape instead of plastic tape, shredded paper or paper pads for cushioning, and paper mailers for soft goods. Adding a note explaining how to recycle or reuse the packaging helps customers follow through.

Do sustainable packaging examples always cost more?
Not always. While some innovative materials cost extra, many examples of sustainable packaging alternatives—like using less packaging, choosing standard cardboard, or reusing boxes—can actually save money. Refillable systems may have higher upfront costs but can lower packaging costs over time.

If you remember nothing else, remember this: the best examples of sustainable packaging alternatives are the ones that use fewer materials, rely on established recycling or reuse systems, and avoid toxic additives. Start there, and build from it, one package at a time.