How To Label Eco-Friendly Packaging: Comparing Plastic vs Glass Containers

Eco-friendly packaging is becoming increasingly important for many brands, as consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. Many manufacturers are switching their packaging to eco-friendly alternatives such as glass containers or recycled plastic. Both of these options have their own unique benefits and drawbacks and have an impact on the labelling machines and label materials used. In this article, we are exploring the pros and cons of using plastic and glass containers and discussing the best ways to label eco-friendly packaging using advanced labelling systems.

Plastic Packaging

Plastic containers are a popular choice for packaging because they are lightweight, durable, and inexpensive to produce. They are also easy to label using labelling machinery and can be made into a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different products. However, plastic is not a very eco-friendly material because it is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose in the environment. Plastic packaging also contributes to pollution and can harm wildlife. Many brands are choosing recycled plastic alternatives or making efforts to reduce their plastic use completely by adopting glass containers.

Glass Packaging

Glass containers are made using natural materials and are completely recyclable. They are also more durable and resistant to damage, making them a good choice for packaging products that are fragile or require a high level of protection. However, glass is heavier than plastic and can be more expensive to produce and transport. There are various types of glass available for packaging, including borosilicate, treated soda-lime, and soda-lime-silica. Each have different strength points and corrosion resistance to be considered.

Labelling Machines For Glass And Plastic Packaging

When it comes to labelling eco-friendly packaging, there are a few options available. One is using in house labelling machines such as print and apply label equipment. This is a good option for businesses that need to label large quantities of products on a regular basis. Another option is contract labelling, where a business outsources the labelling process to a third-party company, such as our expert team at Atwell Labellers. This is a good option for businesses that don’t have the resources to purchase and maintain their own labelling machinery.

The material used for your product packaging makes a big difference to the type of labels and labelling machinery you should use. It is vital that you choose an advanced labelling system and material which will work with your packaging, whether that be down to container shape or finish. One important thing to consider when choosing plastic or glass packaging is static electricity. This is caused by a transfer of electrical charges between objects, such as a label and a container. If both objects have the same charge they will repel, but if they are opposite charges they will attract, improving the adhesion of the label. Static electricity is a common problem with plastic packaging but can also be an issue with glass.

Both plastic and glass containers have their own unique benefits and drawbacks when it comes to labelling eco-friendly packaging. Businesses can choose the right option for their products based on their needs and budget. It is important to choose the right labelling method that is not only efficient but also eco-friendly. For more information about how our labelling machines can help, get in touch with our team of specialists.