[CS] Paper vs. plastic: Which is really greener when packaging goods? Myths, facts and how to make the right choice

Today, paper packaging is a symbol of sustainability – and plastic is often seen as the enemy of the planet. But is it really that simple? Packaging ecology is not black and white. For a company to make a truly responsible choice, it needs to look deeper: at the carbon footprint, the recycling options, but also the purpose of use. At RAJA, we know packaging materials in depth – we bring you a comparison of the two options without prejudice.

♻️ Paper: natural, recyclable, but…

Advantages:

The paper comes from renewable sources (e.g. FSC®, PEFC™ certification).
It is well recyclable, even several times in a row.
In customer perception, paper is synonymous with the “eco approach”.

Disadvantages:

Paper production is water and energy intensive.
Paper packaging is not always durable enough – it loses strength when wet.
When packaging fragile goods, it may be necessary to use multiple layers – increasing material consumption.

📌 For lightweight products or textiles, paper packaging is a great option. But if you’re wrapping heavy items or sending goods to a humid environment, it can be a limitation.

🧴 Plastic: efficient, lightweight, but perceived negatively

Pros:

Lightweight – lower transport carbon footprint.
It is waterproof, strong and often protects goods better (e.g. bubble wrap, stretch).
Can be recycled several times if the system is right.

Disadvantages:

It has a “bad name” in the eyes of the public.
If not sorted properly, it often ends up in landfills or in the environment.
Some types of plastic are only recyclable to a limited extent (e.g. mixed films or multi-layer films).

📌 When shipping electronics or heavy machinery parts, plastic is often the safest option – it prevents damage even in extreme conditions.

🌍 What does ecology and carbon footprint say?

The life cycle of packaging is key. Plastic can have a lower impact on the climate than paper if it is recycled and used more than once.
The volume and weight of the packaging is also important. Plastic filling can be smaller in volume and weight → lower transport costs = lower CO₂ emissions.
It is best to choose the material according to the purpose. There is no universally “greenest” packaging. It is wise to seek a balance between functionality, material and recyclability.

✅ How to choose sustainably?

Choosing the right packaging is always a compromise between product protection, environmental impact and cost-effectiveness. At RAJA, we help our customers find the best balance with regard to the type of goods, the mode of transport and their specific needs.

Prefer recycled and recyclable materials when the nature of the goods and logistics allow it. However, functionality and safety of packaging should always be taken into account.
Choose packaging from responsible sources (e.g. FSC® certification, use of recyclates), but always taking into account the overall environmental impact and the availability of recycling infrastructure in your location.
Try to minimize unnecessary packaging and filling materials, but never at the expense of product protection that could lead to increased waste from claims or damaged shipments.
Consider combinations of materials to ensure optimum protection as well as easy recyclability – for example, a cardboard exterior with a plastic filler that is both highly protective and recyclable.

When it comes to being green, it’s not enough to just ‘do what looks green’ – it’s important to think in context. At RAJA, we help companies choose packaging that makes sense environmentally and economically. Whether you reach for paper or plastic, the key is to make a conscious decision and manage your waste correctly.