The paper and paperboard container and packaging market serves as an efficient and cost-effective solution for transporting or storing various items. Its popularity is rising daily. It is thanks to its sturdy but lightweight design. It also has the ability to customize it for specific products or customer preferences.

Manufacturers have embraced paper packaging for its user-friendly storage options and functional designs. It is not only appealing but also easy to handle.  Additionally, it is made from recycled materials and available in numerous sizes or shapes. This packaging is also highly harmless for the environment.

The Benefits

Utilizing renewable materials, the paper and paperboard container and packaging market size is expanding robustly as it helps create a clan environment along with various other advantages.

1.    Multi-function

It can be repurposed for various uses. That includes wrapping paper and fiberboard. In contrast, plastic bags can typically only be recycled into another plastic bags. Additionally, enhanced paper bags effectively protect dry foods on shelves. It ensures the food and the storage space remain safe. As more paper bottles are created for beverages like carbonated drinks and milk, these materials could potentially take the place of plastic in numerous uses.

2.    Attractive

Cardboard and paper packaging stand out as the top choice among consumers. Two thirds believe it enhances a product’s attractiveness over other packaging options.

3.    Top-shelf solution

Paper packaging offers convenience and enhances brand visibility. Its benefits include the ability to display unique packaging and graphics that convey a brand’s story. It also provides excellent product protection and easy stacking.

4.    Durable

Popular for their environmental benefits and sturdiness, paper bags and boxes can bear significant weight and remain upright. Innovative paper packaging effectively keeps contents fresh by sealing in flavors and preventing pest intrusion. That makes it perfect for products like spices and flour.

The Weaknesses

Despite its many benefits, the paper and paperboard container and packaging market also has several weaknesses that can hinder its development.

1.    Poor barrier

Paper has a lower barrier against oxygen and microbes than plastic and other various packaging materials. This results in reduced shelf life for several items especially food products. To improve these barrier qualities, plastic layers are typically incorporated into paper laminates.

2.    Often go to landfills

Another weakness of the paper and paperboard container and packaging market is that it often goes to landfills. Despite being highly reusable and recyclable, paper still contributes to landfill waste. Paper decomposes efficiently. But this only occurs in aerobic environments that allow oxygen-breathing microorganisms to do their work.

In contrast, paper decomposes slowly in anaerobic or oxygen-free conditions. That includes landfills where its compacted state hinders degradation. Once municipal solid waste including paper is added to a landfill, anaerobic conditions typically develop within a year. Bacteria then decompose the waste. This leads to the production of methane which is a significant greenhouse gas.

Paper also has a larger volume than the same plastic amount in landfills because it has lower density. For example, one pound of paper will use up more landfill space than one pound of food waste or some plastic types.