Not only is eco-friendly packaging better for the planet, it enables companies to meet customers’ and investors’ expectations as one of the most visible corporate social responsibility touchpoints. However, labels are all too often an afterthought when it comes to sustainable packaging, and if your strategy is based around recyclability, the labels you go for could play a bigger role than you think. Here are some factors to take into account when designing your packaging for recyclability.

What are the different types of sustainable label?

There are several different label available, that vary according to the use case and type of associated container:

• General (cut-and-stack) labels: cut-and-stack labels are one of the most widely-used label types out there, and can often be found gracing glass food condiment jars and cans, but also household goods and industrial products. They are usually printed onto large rolls and then cut down to size, making them cost-effective and energy-efficient to work with.
• Pressure-sensitive labels: these labels are self-adhesive and can be easily applied to a wide variety of containers. Using high-quality, durable facestock such as metallized paper can help guarantee your labels will stand up to sometimes punishing transport and storage conditions, while ensuring they’re 100% recyclable.
• Wet-strength labels: wet-strength labels are most often used for cold beverages, such as beer or sparkling wine, and are specially designed not to tear, wrinkle or peel off when immersed in water.