Corrugated:
Protecting the Planet One Package at a Time...
When we think about consumer products, our minds typically consider the product itself and not the package it is encased in. However, if packaging is done poorly, we are sure to notice. Nobody wants their products tampered with as a result of frail packaging.
Similarly, when we think of mankind, our minds typically consider the products of mankind—humanity’s accomplishments, histories, wars, and ideas—not the earthly biome we are encased within. However, our earth is becoming increasingly less and less durable for human and nonhuman life, meaning our systems of production will be affected in the process. If our environment is frail, so are we.
So, what do we do?
The answer is change.
If packaging is frail and leads to harmed goods, we change that packaging. If our planet’s ecosystems are becoming increasingly frail because of climate change, we change the industrial systems that contribute to climate change. In the packaging industry, luckily, there seems to be a solution that can help tackle both of the problems listed above: corrugated.
Corrugated is a sustainable and durable solution to packaging. With corrugated, we do not have to worry about our products’ safety; its structural design consists of layered material that helps provide cushioned support and protection for the package’s internal goods. Corrugated also comes in different levels of strength depending on the degree of support and protection your product needs. Need sturdiness? Single Wall should work just fine. Need ultra-sturdiness? Double Wall it is.
What is even more important than a protected product? A protected environment. According to the EPA, corrugated has a 66.5% recycling rate, compared to 12.6% for metals, and 4.5% for plastics in 2018, making it one of the most recyclable packaging materials out there today. Made from sturdy, paper pulp material, corrugated is not only readily recyclable in many communities but also well suited for reusability. Its durable structure makes corrugated a continuously adequate container even after its first use, its second use, its third use, and beyond.
Sustainability is the future of packaging. If we want our packaging strong and our environment stronger – corrugated is the way to go.
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Sustainably Packaged Newsletter – Feb 2026
You’re committed to making better, more sustainable packaging choices and we’re here to help you do that. The Veritiv Sustainable Design Lab Newsletter is your monthly link to the latest insights, trends, and expert advice directly to your inbox, so you can stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of sustainable packaging.
Whether it’s new material innovations or practical design strategies, we’ve got the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and drive your sustainability efforts forward.
Want to learn more about
Sustainable Packaging?
We have created some resources to guide you in your transition to sustainable packaging:
Sustainably Packaged Magazine
Veritiv’s magazine dedicated to Sustainable Packaging insights, trends & ideas. Available for download now.
Sustainable Design Lab Podcast
Chris and Brodie chat with industry leaders about sustainable packaging options, new products, and how we can improve packaging sustainability.
EPR for Packaging Masterclass Series
A companion piece to Veritiv’s SDL Packaging Masterclass Podcast series that explores the big ideas reshaping packaging. This guide walks you through the key elements of EPR programs and what they mean for your packaging strategy.