93% of global consumers expect the brands they use to support environmental issues (RILA). As a result, many companies have switched to more sustainable practices. Even still, Americans throw away almost 9 million tons of glass each year. Keep reading to find creative ideas on how to encourage upcycling to your customers.
Changing Trends in Product Packaging
More businesses are switching their product packaging to become more sustainable with glass containers and other recyclable materials.
Glass Packaging
Many industries like beauty brands, food storage, bath and body, and fragrance are switching from plastic to glass packaging. Glass is nonporous and protects your products and consumers.
Other Sustainable Materials
Whether it’s plastic, cardboard, or paper, we’re seeing a big shift in how some of the world’s most popular industries are implementing environmentally-friendly packaging into their business models. To find out more, check out our blog on sustainable packaging choices.
What is Upcycling?
Upcycling is the practice of creating a usable product from waste or unwanted items or adapting an existing product in some way to add value. 21% of Americans upcycle clothing, boxes, and goods (Heal the Planet). Think about second-hand stores. Goods pass through to new consumers that reuse products until they’re worn out. The same concept holds true for glass packaging.
The United States generates 12 million tons of glass a year, but only 3 million tons is recycled (EPA). Upcycling glass packaging reduces waste and can provide more to your customer than your initial product’s intent. It’s important to offer high-quality, durable, and unique packaging to your customers to encourage upcycling.
Get Creative – Upcycling Ideas
There are many ways to encourage customers to reuse their glass bottles and jars. Make sure you provide information on how to clean your products before reuse. For example, if you are a candle business, write a blog on how to remove candle wax from glass jars.
Here are a few ideas to showcase the idea of upcycling:
Ideas for Upcycling Jars
Home DecorationS
Indoor or Outdoor Planters: Glass jars or candle containers can be used to house plants and flowers.
Organizational Jars
Bathroom Organization
Office & Craft Organization
Pantry Jars for Dry Goods
Ideas for Upcycling Bottles
Home Decorations
Lamps and Hanging Light Fixtures
Flower Vases
Conclusion
Businesses should think of creative ways to encourage consumers to not only recycle, but also upcycle their product packaging. Sustainability is sure to be a large part of purchasing in 2022. Check out the glass containers on our website for sustainable packaging options!
