Sustainability Guide To Recycled Cardboard Packaging Boxes

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Emilly December 16, 2025

If we look back at the 1800s or 1900s, our air quality was very clean, and the air was so fresh and breathable. But with the passage of time, everything is changing so fast. Our lifestyle and choices have made our planet suffer as well. The constant burning and trying to get rid of plastics and other materials, or the manufacturing of new ones, is leaving devastating effects on our environment. 

According to a report published by the American Lung Association, “State of the Air” 2025

46% of Americans, that is, around 156.1 million people. They are living in places that are unhealthy, and 25 million more people are breathing unhealthy air.

“How is this air getting so dirty?”

And it is not just the case with air pollution; our land, water, and everything are getting dirty. And do you know how we are unknowingly contributing to it? 

We are burning fossil fuels, and our industries are emitting harmful gases and producing chemical water, agricultural pesticides, and what not. All these things are ruining our planet's environment for us and for our future generations. We can stop it by going for eco-friendly alternatives. There is a famous saying about prevention.

“It's better to care than cure.”

So, if you have a soft corner for humanity and nature, then you should use recyclable materials. By using recycled paper fibre, we can actually decrease deforestation. If you love and care for nature, then you can decrease the cutting of new trees.

How can your brand contribute its part in saving the planet?

Being brand owners, whether for small or large, you can provide your customers with an eco-friendly packaging solution. You can use recycled cardboard packaging boxes for your products. They are reusable, recyclable, and eco-friendly. You can gain more customer satisfaction and people’s love for your product.

When you pack in sustainable packaging, you can enhance your brand value in the market. And save the planet. When we use recycled cardboard, we actually save our planet from greenhouse gases. Plants lower greenhouse gas emissions and save energy and water compared to new materials. They easily decompose in the soil and do not contribute to landfill waste. 

"The Earth's alarm is going off, and it is time to wake up and take action."

What Are Recycled Cardboard Packaging Boxes?

Recycled cardboard packaging boxes are cartons or containers that are made from recycled material. This recycled material is basically wood pulp that is processed to form cardboard material from which packaging boxes are made.

These boxes are strong and durable. They protect your product from dust, moisture, grease, and other contaminants. They are very reliable for shipping, gifting, and retail purposes.

This kind of packaging is very cost-effective and eco-friendly. They are biodegradable and do not pollute the land or air.

Application and Usage of Recycled Cardboard Boxes

Shipping / Moving Boxes

These boxes are durable and primarily used for shipping items. You can customize these shipping boxes from manufacturers like MyBoxPrinting. They are made perfectly according to your product dimensions to fit your product. They protect your product from breakage and damage. They keep your product safe from moisture, oxygen, and other contaminants.

They are used for large, heavy-duty item movements with handles and no-tape assembly. They are mostly used for transporting your products and perfectly absorb shock and provide resistance against unwanted movements.

Retail/Gifting Boxes

They are perfect for being used as small, customizable boxes. These custom gift boxes are for cosmetics, apparel, and subscription services. They can be easily assembled and are very customer-friendly due to their lightweight. They can be customized and decorated attractively to grab more customers and sales.

Square Storage Boxes

They are lightweight but reliable. They can be used to fulfil the storage needs. They keep your product safe and protected. These boxes are a perfect solution for storing your product for a long period of time. They can easily be stacked and managed in small places.

If you also want to provide your customers with an eco-conscious solution for the environment, just click below to choose any of the above boxes for your brand from MyBoxPrinting.

 

How Recycled Cardboard Boxes Are Prepared: An Easy Guide, Step By Step

The manufacturing of recycled cardboard boxes consists of many parts. In these steps, we will learn how to convert raw materials into sustainable recycled cardboard packaging materials.

Step 1: Pulping, which is done by two methods

   + Mechanical process

   + Chemical process

Step 2: Cleaning raw materials, which is removing Impurities

Step 3: Bleaching, in which colour is given to the board

Step 4: Forming, which is done in the Fourdrinier Machine

Step 5: Pressing, which is done by the rollers

Step 6: Corrugation, which adds strength and durability

Step 7: Cutting and shaping the cardboard to give shape according to your requirement.

Properties of Recycled Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard Properties and Specifications
Properties Approvals and Distinctions
Material Recycled cardboard
Types Paperboard, Corrugated cardboard
Thickness 23 ECT B for 15 lbs
32 ECT B for 25 lbs
32 ECT C for 25 lbs
32 ECT E for 25 lbs
44 ECT C for 40 lbs
Certifications FDA-approved, FSC-Certified, PEFC-Certified, ISO standard certified, ECT test certified, SCS-COC-009926
Recycled Content 100% recycled content
PCW Content 95% post-consumer waste, Plastic-free, Curbside recyclable
Corrugated Material Features B Flute - 1/8” thick. Resists crushing. Good for folding and printing
C Flute - 11/64″ thick. Provides good cushioning
E Flute - 1/16” thick. Strong crush resistance. Excellent for folding and printing
Common Types of Boxes Regular Slotted Containers (RSC) for standard shipping and mailing/gift boxes (TL style) are designed for a more premium unboxing experience
Grades of Cardboard Chip (C), Bleached White (BW), White Top (WT), Mottled Kraft (MK), Oyster (OY), Semi-Chem (SC), Waste-Based (WB)

 

Why Recycled Cardboard Is A Sustainable Option For The Planet?

Less Resource More Energy Savings

When recycled corrugated cardboard is used to make packaging boxes, less water and raw material are used. But when a totally new raw material is used to make boxes, they use a lot of water and the new raw material. This increases the energy and resource waste. 

So when we reuse the paper fibres, it reduces the demand for fresh wood pulp, and in this way, you can contribute to saving forests and natural resources. 

Less Carbon Emission and Pollution

Plastic was used as an old type of packaging. But now, as people are getting more aware of the plastic use consequences, they are shifting to biodegradable materials. Plastics impose a very harmful and negative impact on our environment. They cause the greenhouse gas effect, they make resources go down, and cause long-term pollution.

To cut CO₂ emissions, brands have shifted towards using recycled cardboard. They are totally biodegradable and break down naturally in proper conditions. They are reducing landfill load and environmental harm.

Practical and Economic Benefits For Businesses

benefits of recycled cardboard packaging boxes for businesses

 

Durable, Protective, and All-Rounder

Recycled corrugated cardboard material is a very strong and durable material. This material provides maximum protection to your product during shipping and transportation. People think that if the boxes are made from recycled cardboard material, they won't be very durable. But this is not the truth. These boxes can bear a lot of pressure and absorb shocks. They keep your product safe from breakage or damage during handling or transit.

Corrugated material is a very flexible material. You can easily customize them in your desired shapes and sizes to fit your product perfectly.  Whether you have a small retail item or a heavy product, they are perfect. And if you have something fragile that needs extra protection, they are your best all-rounder partners.

You can use these boxes for your e-commerce and retail businesses. At “MyboxPrinting,” you can get custom subscription boxes or shipping boxes for your heavy products. Our boxes are made from 100% recycled cardboard that gives strength and protection. Moreover, they are perfectly lightweight. 

Spend Less, Save Time, and Get More Profit

When any brand decides to go for eco-friendly material, they only think that

 “eco-friendly = expensive”

This is totally false. Eco-friendly material is the most affordable material. Recycled material is made from reusable material, which is cheaper as compared to new raw material. And the best part is that due to its lightweight, it costs less during shipping and transportation. And you can save more money from this thing.

Furthermore, you can save more money when you order your custom packaging boxes in bulk. This will help you save your time and money, and you will earn more profit from this idea. And when you have a bulk quantity of boxes, you won't be worried about ordering again. They will cover a lot of your orders.

One Solution For Every Industry

Recycled material is perfect for every industry's needs. This material is very flexible and can be used by every business. Whatever your brand deals with, whether you sell 

   + Cosmetics 

   + Electronics

   + Clothes

   + Handmade goods

   + Food items

   + Beverages

You can use recycled packaging, and it will fit almost any product. One of the strengths of recycled cardboard is its adaptability. From simple shipping boxes to premium retail packaging, you can use them. These recycled cardboard materials make sense for many business types.

Get Customer Satisfaction and Brand Value

Target More Eco-Conscious Customers With Sustainable Packaging

People are becoming more sensitive about their environmental footprint. They are becoming more and more concerned about the environment. So they really pay attention to what product they are buying and what kind of packaging brands are offering. 

When you pack your product in biodegradable packaging, you ultimately attract more customers. More customers mean more sales. So it is important for brands to use recycled cardboard. It means that you can connect with customers emotionally.

Memorable Unboxing Experience Perceived Value

Your product packaging is the “first physical touchpoint” between customers and a product. A beautiful and attractive box can enhance your product's packaging appearance. An aesthetic and visually appealing box can give your customers an “unforgettable unboxing experience.” 

Recycled cardboard packaging is printed with logos, slogans, contact information, product instructions, and safety instructions of the brand. These little details show your customers that you care for them. They increase the beauty of your product and your brand's image.

Create A Difference In The Market With Your Eco-Friendly Packaging

When we visit market aisles, we find the same products from 100s of brands. So, how can you make a difference in your packaging to take over other brands? It is only possible by making your packaging different and desirable. You can make your brand stand out in the market by using recycled cardboard.

People in the young generation are going crazy over recyclable products packaging. Millennials and Gen Z are even willing to pay more for sustainable packaging. They post videos and pictures on social media of their eco-friendly packaging.

This shows that your brands can attract more loyal customers for you, and you can make a positive word-of-mouth.

Why Many Businesses Are Switching Toward Sustainable Packaging?

According to researchers all across the world, it has been proven that most of the businesses around the globe have shifted towards sustainability. According to the 2023 Buying Green Report, more than 9000 people in Europe, North America, and South America think that eco-friendly packaging is changing the world.

This shows that as environmental awareness is increasing among customers, they are demanding it. That is why it has become compulsory for companies to choose recycled or eco-friendly packaging solutions. By using sustainable packaging, you show care and give value to your brand and customers. They bring many advantages to you, like

1. They are cost-effective because they offer lighter shipping, reduced waste, and efficient transportation:

2. They provide protection to products during shipping from damage.

3. They are very flexible packaging options, from minimal boxes to premium retail designs.

4. You can attract eco-conscious customers.

5. You can increase brand loyalty.

6. You can give a better unboxing experience to your customers.

7. They can increase your customers' satisfaction.

And this is not only for just fulfilling customers' demand. Sustainable packaging also helps your brand to show your customers that you care about future generations and environmental standards. This kind of packaging reduces waste and single-use plastics.

There is another report on customer loyalty towards those brands that use recycled corrugated cardboard. It says 80% of shoppers said that they would buy products that are refillable. They think that this packaging reduces environmental impact. And to be very honest, this is “perfect  for PR.”

This increases brand loyalty and customer satisfaction at he same time. This can help you manage your costs by reducing waste.

Ticking Time Bomb: And How to Handle Them

When we suggest to clients that they should use green packaging, their first question is?

Is this packaging strong?

Is it cost-friendly or not?

Where to find a reliable manufacturing partner?

How can it save our planet?

Is this packaging strong?: Yes! Recycled corrugated cardboards are made from high-quality material. It is strong and reliable for shipping and storing heavy products. They protect your fragile items.

Is it cost-friendly or not?: Yes! Custom packaging is very budget-friendly. When your boxes are made in bulk, its manufacturing cost decreases. This makes it a long-term savings for businesses.

Where to find a reliable manufacturing partner?: MyBoxPrinting is a reliable custom box manufacturer. We are trusted by more than 500 businesses in the USA. You can customize your product boxes from us in different shapes, sizes, dimensions, and styles. This customization satisfies your customers and gains more sales in the market. Because it fits your product perfectly.

How can it save our planet? You can explain to your customers how they can play their part in saving the earth from landfills and waste accumulations. You can make them aware through your box printings, promotions, slogans,  recycling instructions, encouraging reuse, and website.

How Your Brand Can Adopt Recycled Cardboard Packaging 

If you decide to switch to recycled cardboard packaging, here are some practical steps and strategies:

Go For Custom-Sized Boxes

Perfectly fit boxes increase the visual appearance of your product. You do not need to overpack your product. Just use custom-sized boxes, which are manufactured according to your given dimensions. This will make your packaging eye-catching and professional. 

Moreover, this will reduce material waste and your shipping costs. You can order die-cut custom boxes from “MyBoxPrinting.

Use High-Quality Corrugated Cardboard

If we think about how a brand can give its customers a premium quality packaging? The first thing that comes to our mind is using good quality material. Before packaging your product, you need to take care of a few things.

Make sure the cardboard is strong and durable. It should absorb shock during shipping and provide maximum protection to your product. Paperboard or kraft paper is good for retail and gift packaging, but they can not keep your product safe during shipping and transportation. 

If you want to ship your product safely, then use corrugated cardboard and customised protective inserts.

Explain Your Brand Through Your Prints and Designs

If you want to send your message to your customers, then you should go for 2D and 3D digital graphic designs. You can go for printing options like offset and digital printing.

This is a perfect way to show your customers that you are “100% recycled material” using the brand. You can also do this by using custom labels or stickers.

Educate Your Customers Through Your Website

Customers are only linked to your product. It's up to you how you present your product to them. If it is in good packaging, you will be the one who will benefit. 

To make your customers understand the importance of recycled cardboard? Educate them through your website on

Why do you use recycled cardboard? 

How does it benefit the environment?

Do What You Say

You need to stay transparent with your customers. If you say that recycled material is the first step towards going green. Then you need to act accordingly.

How "Econoflex" Packaging Increases Visual Appearance And Customer Satisfaction

You can increase the visual appearance of your product and brand by getting these greener boxes customised to power your requirements in different shapes, sizes and styles. You can gain more sales and more customers in the market. You can add your logo, slogan, personalised messages for your customers, contact information and much more.

Printing Options: Logo printing, brand colours, and eco-friendly inks.

Finishing Options: Matte, glossy, embossed, or laminated finishes.

Structural Customization: Window cut-outs, magnetic closures, or unique shapes.

Add-ons: Inserts, dividers, or cushioning for delicate products.

“MyBoxPrinting” is a professional expert who can provide you with all these customisation perks at wholesale rates.

Crux of Discussion

By choosing recycled cardboard, you do not just pack your product in environmentally friendly packaging. But you also increase your brand’s values, customer trust, and support a sustainable future for our next generations.

When we say that we are shifting to recycled cardboard packaging. It becomes a very powerful business strategy, more than an eco-friendly statement. Because it reduces environmental pollution, it reduces land, water, and air waste. Moreover, it increases the efficiency of your brand and helps you connect with consumers.

For businesses, it can help to gain more sales and customers. It reduces shipping and manufacturing costs. If you’re ready to make a change, now is the time. MyBoxPrinting offers recycled cardboard packaging for your brand, for your customers, and for our planet. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are recycled cardboard worth it?

Yes, recycling one ton of cardboard saves nine to seventeen trees. This is how much it is worth. Moreover, you can save about seven thousand gallons of water and around 400 gallons of oil and other fossil fuels.

How can one know if a cardboard box is compostable or not?

All the paper-based products are compostable, and they should be uncoated. If any box is coated with plastic or wax, it is non-compostable. 

Are brown paper bags compostable or recyclable?

Yes, all brown paper bags are compostable or recyclable. They can be shredded and can be turned into pulp. Then that pulp acts as a raw material for making new bags.

Do you offer customisation options?

Yes, we offer all the customisation options to our customers. We manufacture all types of boxes in different sizes, shapes, and designs as according to your given details. We offer various printing and finishing options as well.

What is ECT corrugated cardboard?

ECT stand for "Edge Crush Test". This is a test that is used to measure the strength of cardboard from edge to edge.

What is your shipping time?

We offer a fast turnaround time. We ship your product in 5-10 business days all across the USA without any charges.

How much do you charge for sample kits?

We offer free of cost sample kits. You can order your sample kits from us and then place your bulk order to enjoy our wholesale rates and great discounts.