From the kitchen: How do we pack?
The topic of order packaging is important and sensitive for all environmentally conscious brands.
The strategy we chose at the very beginning is that of reusing cartons . Sometimes the requests fit right in, and other times it takes miracles of courage and application of skills from "Labor and Technology" classes. And this is provided that we have time to show this creativity, as it is also an important resource for a young business.
The results are not always aesthetic, but we hope that customers also believe in the beauty of our intention not to waste resources. We also love stylish branded boxes that provide aesthetic pleasure, but at this stage we cannot find such a solution that is responsible for the environment, our budget and transportation conditions.
What does this look like in practice?
After the products arrive, we separate their boxes and store them. If we don't have enough space, we cut them up and use them for stuffing. Since these boxes are larger and don't always fit our needs, we talk to our neighboring businesses and we often get cute smaller boxes. Even colleagues often think of bringing us their unnecessary little boxes, for which we are more than grateful.
The shredder is our first friend. Through it, we transform waste administrative paper into a homogeneous and eye-pleasing filling (after mixing it well beforehand, of course).
Sometimes we overflow from boxes, and other times we have a lot of orders and construct them on the fly. If you have ordered from us, you may have received some "interesting" design solutions. :)
Of course, sometimes it turns out beautifully. The photo accompanying the article shows one of those sweet moments when aesthetics, environmental friendliness and functionality come together. A second-hand box of the perfect size, carefully shredded documentation and a product that sinks into a soft bed, wrapped in paper tape and adorned with the inscription that we put on each shipment:
This carton is living a second life.
We believe that there is no such thing as trash, only resources in the wrong place.
Yours, Tierra Verde Bulgaria
Sometimes we have to argue with the courier company employees and defend our choice of paper tape , on which the bills of lading do not stick so well, or our refusal of envelopes. Other times we reconsider whether it is cost-effective to get a printer for adhesive bills of lading to avoid envelopes... and a bunch of other cases, which are only a small part of all the issues that come to the agenda when you decide to develop sustainably.
Packaging is just one of the countless systems thinking exercises required as you begin to delve into conscious business. We hope you find this article helpful, and we would also be happy if you have any working practices to share.
