Our company is focused on the natural world, and committed to global ecology and the preservation of our ecosystem. We are actively engaged in the exploration and application of environmentally prudent raw materials and processes.

Sustainable packaging is manufactured using substrates that have a neutral effect on the planet’s ecological system; acting to preserve our environment with positive consequences for the populace.

(One of our favorite sustainable concepts)

Ideally an environmentally prudent packaging life cycle would encompass material sourcing, manufacturing, transportation, consumer usage, and reprocessing.  The object is to utilize materials that have been recycled, are recyclable, biodegradable, or possibly compostable. These materials are then converted and re-processed via environmentally clean processes, using minimal energy resources and transport volume.

(One of our favorite sustainable concepts)

Initiating a Sustainable Proposition:

• Assess the package design and production processes to establish materials that represent a key influence in minimizing package impact.
• Analyze existing structure, footprint, substrate, and print / deco specifications to achieve a net reduction in environmental impact, cost, and resource volume.
• Evaluate alternative materials with higher recyclate content from acknowledged sources.
• Examine the manufacturing consequences of package design on clean converting methods, energy sources, transport fuels, and eventual disposal of materials.
• Strategically source, and track verification.

At IBC Shell, we offer a variety of environmentally friendly packaging materials and converting methods, not merely as best practice, but as a requisite for a healthy planet.

A brief overview of our recommended environmentally prudent materials and their benchmarks:

Paperboard:

Our ongoing practice is to recommend and utilize paperboard with up to 100% recycled fiber. We purchase paper from, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and SFI (Sustainable Forest Initiative) certified mills.

Recyclable Materials:

PLA (Polyactic acid) is a 100% biodegradable corn derivative.  PLA has a myriad of uses including injection molded packaging, clear folding cartons and thermoformed inserts.

Agri-Soy Ink containing zero petroleum additives and releasing minimal volatile organic compounds.

Hybrid UV and aqueous coatings that exhibit up to a 46% reduction in VOCs.

Synthetic Reflective Metallic Emulsions utilizes 97% less metallic than traditional reflective foils. We also provide an environmentally neutral adhesive with a superior tack and a faster closing time than conventional glues.

Molded pulp: 100% recyclable and biodegradable discarded newsprint is a viable cost effective solution for protective cushioning.

Glass: Similar to steel and aluminum, glass materials, specifically clear flint and amber glass, are infinitely recyclable. The use of recovered glass or ‘cullet’ reduces the melting temperature of glass and thus saves energy

100 % Biodegradable & Compostable Film: Its principal raw material is wood pulp sourced from 100% managed forestry. Available in both gloss and matte finishes, the film has a naturally high dyne level, enhancing print and adhesive processes.

(One of our favorite sustainable concepts)