Everything You Need To Know About Cardboard and Sustainability

30th Jan 2025

How Cardboard is Made

Cardboard is created using renewable resource trees. The production process at Curran Packaging begins with recycled pulp, which is a significant advantage for our environmentally conscious customers. Recycled pulp is more sustainable, as it reduces the demand for deforestation and consumes less energy and water compared to virgin pulp production. This recycled pulp is processed into fibers, which are pressed and dried to form sheets of paper. These sheets are then layered together to create the durable, versatile material we know as cardboard, combining strength, functionality, and environmental responsibility.  

Why is Cardboard Sustainable?

Cardboard is one of the most sustainable materials available for packaging due to several key factors, these include: 

Renewability: Cardboard is made from trees, a renewable resource.

Recyclability: Cardboard can be recycled multiple times without losing its structural integrity. 

Biodegradability: Unlike plastic, cardboard decomposes naturally, reducing waste in landfills. By choosing cardboard, businesses, and consumers can significantly lower their environmental impact.

Why Cardboard Beats Plastic When it Comes To Packaging

When comparing packaging materials, cardboard stands out as the more eco-friendly option. Here’s why: 

Lower Carbon Footprint: The production of cardboard generates fewer greenhouse gases compared to plastic. 

Recyclable at Scale: Cardboard has an established recycling infrastructure, making it easy for consumers to dispose of responsibly. 

Non-toxic Decomposition: While plastic takes centuries to degrade and releases harmful chemicals, cardboard breaks down naturally without polluting the environment. Switching to cardboard packaging is a simple yet effective way to support sustainability efforts.  

Recycled Cardboard

Recycled cardboard plays a critical role in the circular economy by reducing the need for virgin materials. The process involves collecting used cardboard, breaking it down into fibers, and reprocessing it into new products. This not only conserves natural resources but also saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Products made from recycled cardboard retain the same durability and functionality, proving that sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on quality.

Choosing cardboard, especially recycled varieties, is a step toward a greener, more sustainable future. Curran Packaging offers a wide range of eco-friendly cardboard solutions to meet your packaging needs.