Now Using Environmentally-Friendly Packaging!

Since I started selling online, one of my biggest goals has been to switch away from traditional unsustainable packing materials and instead use completely environmentally-friendly and sustainable methods and materials. Through research of new methods and products, I have been gradually making this switch from plastics (bubble wrap, plastic tape, packing peanuts, etc.) and have been switching every element of the packing materials to a more sustainable and compostable material.

With the purchase of my new Rollo printer, I have now made a complete switch away from plastics in my packaging materials towards a more environmentally-friendly and sustainable method. Before this investment, I was using an inkjet printer and putting clear plastic tape over the label. The Rollo printer instead uses thermal heat to “ink” the labels and spits out the label FAST! Not only does this help remove the use of plastics, but it also saves a lot more time in the packing process so I can return to the studio quicker and continue making art.

Here are the other ways I have moved away from traditional plastics in packaging and shipping my pots:

• Instead of bubble wrap, I use the Ranpak Geami WrapPak EX, which is not only more environmentally friendly than plastic bubble wrap, but it is way cheaper by the foot as well.

• For void fill in boxes, instead of plastic air packs or plastic peanuts, I use blank packing newspaper or biodegradable packing peanuts. Newspaper is great at absorbing the shocks a package might endure and it is usually compostable and/or recyclable. The only downside of using newspaper is that it makes the package slightly heavier. For larger packages, or double boxed packages, I use biodegradable packing peanuts. They are more expensive than newspaper, which is why I don’t use them for every package - yet! Until I can find a preferably local supplier that I can buy in bulk.

• Instead of plastic tape to assemble the box, I use a water-activated brown kraft paper tape. I personally find this sturdier than plastic tape (it has threads reinforcing the tape) and even stickier.

• For labels, I now use a Rollo thermal activated label printer and no longer use plastic tape to affix the label to the box.

• Lastly, one of the recycling R’s is Reuse. Sometimes I will reuse packaging, whether it be peanuts, boxes or other void fill. So you may find plastic peanuts, cut up Styrofoam, etc. in your box but I assure you this is 100% reused product and I did not continue to support the plastics industry. If you can, I highly encourage you to continue to reuse any plastic or biodegradable packaging that arrives in your mail, however I know that isn’t an option for everyone. Consider donating any boxes in good condition, bubble wrap or packing peanuts to local businesses in your area, you might get a lot of interest!

Each incremental and small change can have a huge impact for the environment! I’m proud to spend a little extra on environmentally friendly packing materials because I feel it is the right thing to do, especially as a small business. I am also looking into other ways I can reduce my use of plastics in the creation of my artwork, such biodegradable disposable gloves!

Are there any ways you would like to see more environmentally friendly options at Bri Larson / Art or do you have any questions or comments? I’d love to hear them below!

PS - The links in this article DO NOT contain affiliate links. Feel free to Google search any of these products or similar to find a supplier that works best for you. I personally try to avoid Amazon and ULINE whenever possible and buy directly from the supplier.