Being ecofriendly is more than separating paper, plastic and aluminum; it’s about decreasing your carbon footprint A study published on March 27, 2012 by Cone Communications reported that 80% of Americans doubt that companies are addressing the complete environmental impacts of their processes and/or products. What's more, only 44% of those surveyed trusted claims made by companies about being 'green'.

69% of American consumers at least consider the environment when making purchasing decisions.  Companies should not only have a policy put in place that addresses environmental impact but should be able to establish that the policy does indeed result in a reduced of waste.

The manufacture of consumer products and their method of packaging have long gotten the attention of environmentally conscious consumers.  Manufacturers, shippers, distributors and retailers are best served if the packaging is recyclable.  If they aren’t able to make their product recyclable every effort should be made to ensure that products are brought to market in landfill friendly packaging. After all it’s our responsibility as a human race to do our part to preserve our Earth, isn’t it?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA), "Municipal solid waste landfills (MSWLFs) receive household waste...  Solid waste landfills must be designed to protect the environment from contaminants which may be present in the solid waste stream."

In the interest of the environment packaging with flat barrier bags are leading examples of landfill friendly packaging.  Also known as stand up pouches and stand up bags, flat barrier bags are the result of laminating together multiple layers of scientifically designed film.  The bags are moisture and puncture resistant and guard the contents against the following:

• Vapor

• Odor

• Ultraviolet light

• Pests

Your brand will be strengthened with consumers who, when making a purchasing decision, consider the environmental impact of a product's entire life cycle because flat barrier bag are landfill friendly packaging. These bags are made with 12 percent less film than other bags of the same size, thereby weighing less and taking up less space. (Note: Bags that weigh less cost less per unit to transport.)

The Cone study also found that as many as 77% of those surveyed would be willing to boycott companies whose 'green' claims proved to be misleading.  The fact that flat barrier bags are truly landfill friendly packaging will save your company from that fate. Not to mention help build up your brand as it will be a part of the environmentally friendly movement.

What are your thoughts on going ‘green’? How important is packaging your product that protects your product from the elements? Share your thoughts with us; we’d love to hear from you.