Innovations in green packaging include the use of biodegradable materials such as plant-based plastics, recycled materials, and compostable packaging. Other advances include the development of edible packaging made from seaweed, mushroom-based packaging, and the use of nanotechnology to improve the shelf life of food products without the need for preservatives. Additionally, smart packaging provides real-time information on product freshness and quality as well as is becoming increasingly popular. These innovations aim to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste while also improving the sustainability of the packaging industry. Let’s check out 20 innovative green packaging startups taking these technologies forward in 2024 and beyond!
20 Green Packaging Startups to Watch (2024)
- StarchTek – Startch-based Styrofoam Alternative
- Ston2Pack – Stone Paper Packaging
- CoolBox – Organic Chilled Packaging
- EcoCushion Paper – Paper-based Protective Packaging
- Cirkla – Customizable Sustainable Packaging
- Pulpex – Wood Pulp-based Bottles
- Origin Biopack – Eco-friendly Speciality Packaging
- Packiro – Recyclable Food Packaging
- Repax – Reusable-Packaging-as-a-Service
- Sourceful – Sustainable Packaging Design Platform
- Source Green – Planet-Friendly Packaging
- Parcel Health – Mineral-coated Paper Packaging
- Kelpi – Kelp-based Packaging
- WEGE COMPANY – Banana Waste-based Poly Bags
- Circulate – Eco-Friendly Packaging Marketplace
- Low imPACK – Packaging from Textile Waste
- IonKraft – Recyclable Plasma-coated Packaging
- Perflute – Fiber-based Packaging
- BIOLO – Bioplastic Packaging
- Impackt – Package Recycling
Global Startup Heat Map highlights 20 Green Packaging Startups to Watch
Through the Big Data & Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering over 3 790 000+ startups & scaleups globally, we identified 1630 green packaging startups. The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the 20 green packaging startups you should watch in 2024 as well as the geo-distribution of all green packaging startups & scaleups we analyzed for this research.
Based on the heat map, we see high startup activity in the UK and the USA, followed by India. These green packaging startups work on solutions ranging from stone paper packaging to wood pulp-based bottles and starch-based styrofoam alternatives to reusable packaging-as-a-service.
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As the world’s largest resource for data on emerging companies, the SaaS platform enables you to identify relevant technologies and industry trends quickly & exhaustively. Based on the data from the platform, the Top 20 Green packaging Startup Hubs are in London, New York, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Los Angeles. The 20 hand-picked startups highlighted in this report are chosen from all over the world and develop solutions for organic chilled packaging, paper-based protective packaging, wood pulp-based bottles, stone paper packaging, and much more.
Explore 20 Green Packaging Startups to Watch (2024)
StarchTek makes a Startch-based Styrofoam Alternative
USA-based startup StarchTek develops a plastic-free and water-soluble styrofoam alternative, STARCHAFOAM. The proprietary process combines corn, potato, pea, or tapioca starch, and bioplastics in a closed loop mixing hopper for a uniform distribution. A high-pressure twin screw extruder generates a chemical and mechanical reaction together with a proprietary dye to extrude starch to foam (a closed-cell foam tube structure).
This starch foam tobe passes through a tube slitter, cutting it open and unfolding it into a flat-length surface. Thereafter, a liner board is unwound and laminated onto one or both sides of the starch foam, producing starch of foam board length ranging up to 1.5 inches in thickness. The foam then proceeds into a box-cutting machine that converts it into individual boards or a blank box. STARCHAFOAM’s thermal density and rigidity properties are similar to traditional plastic styrofoams, thus making it an appropriate plastic-free alternative for package protection.
Ston2Pack provides Stone Paper Packaging
Indian startup Ston2Pack produces paper from stone and uses it to offer packaging products. Stone paper is a sustainable alternative to virgin pulp paper as its manufacturing involves no deforestation, uses no water, and results in lesser emissions. The material, inherently white due to high calcium carbonate concentration, eliminates the need for bleaches or acids, making it chemical-free. Ston2Pack’s stone paper serves as a core material in sustainable packaging.
The company’s flexible packaging range includes box pouches, stand-up pouches, side gussets, and spout pouches, Their 3 side seal is ideal for viscous liquid packaging, while heavy-duty bags cater to both liquid and powder packaging. Stone paper bags, characterized by tear and water resistance, are suitable for advertising and long-term use. Stand-on-shelf bags are designed for carrying food and drinks. Lastly, Ston2Pack’s euro tote and shopping bags offer a sophisticated, reusable solution for retail and gift packaging.
CoolBox innovates in Organic Chilled Packaging
CoolBox is a UK-based startup that manufactures plant-based insulated packaging solutions for 24 to 48-hour temperature-controlled shipping of chilled and frozen goods. CoolBox Frozen has 8 insulating cavities, whereas CoolBox Chilled 48 and CoolBox Chilled 24 have 6 and 4 cavities respectively. CoolBox packaging solutions are kerbside recyclable. If not recycled, they decompose at the end of their life.
The startup also replaces PVA glue with starch-based glue to make the packages to ensure that they are fully plastic-free. Additionally, it makes Cool-Ice which provides refrigeration for the food delivery system in the form of a frozen spring water bottle used as an ice pack. Made from recyclable polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Cool-Ice bottles are both recyclable and reusable by end users in domestic premises.
EcoCushion Paper offers Paper-based Protective Packaging
Indian startup EcoCushion Paper makes compostable protective packaging solutions using paper. Its product, EcoCushion Paper Wrap, offers a recyclable and cost-effective alternative to traditional plastic bubble wrap. It features a 3D honeycomb design for efficient cushioning and protection with minimal paper usage. The product is lightweight and occupies much less space than conventional bubble wraps.
It is ideal for shipping fragile items like ceramics, electronics, and glass bottles, and requires no tape due to its interlocking cells. The product is customizable to any size due to its design with continuous perforations for easy expansion. EcoCushion BoxFill made from strong, lightweight paper serves as a void filler in packages to prevent movement and damage during transit. Utilizing honeycomb wrap technology, it maximizes volume with minimal paper, offering a lightweight, sustainable, and cost-effective solution. Moreover, it produces much less waste compared to foam peanuts and air pillows.
Cirkla simplifies Customizable Sustainable Packaging
USA-based startup Cirkla specializes in customizable sustainable packaging solutions, aiding brands in reducing their plastic footprint. The startup’s molded fiber solutions, made from plant-based fibers, agricultural waste, and biomass are home-compostable and applicable across various industries. Cirkla also uses post-consumer recycled plastics to offer global recycled standard (GRS)-certified recycled packaging solutions including rHDPE and rPP, reducing virgin plastic consumption. Natural color polymer enables the final products to have any color.
The company also provides compostable films, including single-ply films and multi-ply laminates, suitable for food and fashion packaging. Paperboard options from Cirkla are recyclable and FSC-certified, catering to electronics, cosmetics, and pharma sectors. Cirkla’s sustainable packaging solutions align with environmental goals while maintaining functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Pulpex manufactures Wood Pulp-based Bottles
Pulpex is a startup from the UK that produces bottles utilizing sustainably sourced wood pulp that is a program for the endorsement of forest certification (PEFC)- and FSC-certified. Pulpex has a lower carbon footprint than glass or PET, making it an apt green alternative. The bottles can also be designed to fit brands’ needs as a complement to their current packaging. The inside of the bottles are sprayed with proprietary, food-grade coatings depending on whether the bottled product is oil- or aqueous-based.
As the bottles are made from natural material (renewable feedstock), they readily degrade in the natural environment. They do not contain PET and they can be picked up roadside and recycled through standard methods. Moreover, Pulpex uses a patented technology that can be easily incorporated into filling lines used by packaging manufacturers without needing changes to their existing infrastructure.
Origin Biopack enables Eco-friendly Speciality Packaging
Origin BioPack is an Indian startup that provides eco-friendly specialty packaging solutions. Its Kraft Paper Mailer Bags offer a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging, being both recyclable and biodegradable. These recyclable and compostable mailer bags, made from high-quality kraft paper, are strong and durable, suitable for a variety of shipping needs.
Origin BioPack’s Kraft Paper Tapes, developed as a zero-plastic option, feature a pressure-sensitive adhesive for strong bonding with corrugated boxes. These tapes are user-friendly, hand-tearable, and can be custom-printed for branding purposes. The company also provides Application-Based Paper Rolls, customizable for specific needs with options like water-resistant and grease-resistant coatings. These paper rolls are versatile, catering to various packaging requirements while emphasizing sustainability.
Packiro advances Recyclable Food Packaging
Based out of Germany, Packiro is a startup that specializes in eco-friendly food packaging solutions, focusing on resource conservation and waste reduction. The startup’s proprietary packaging materials include Transparent Toni, Metallised Martha, Robust Robin, Biobased Ben, and Natural Nils.
The former two materials are recyclable monoplastic-based and the latter three are made using sustainably sourced, forest stewardship council (FSC)-certified paper. Packiro’s packaging solutions are suitable for various requirements, such as moisture, UV, and oxygen protection, and are available in different shapes like stand-up pouches, flat bottom pouches, and flat pouches.
Repax facilitates Reusable-Packaging-as-a-Service
Based out of Indonesia, Repax is a startup that promotes reusable packaging. The company provides sustainable packaging solutions that are durable, waterproof, and have anti-tamper properties. Thus, ensuring environmental friendliness as well as product safety. The startup’s product, Re-Bag is made from a disposable poly mailer alternative material that is also water-resistant. It is suitable for items like clothing and accessories.
Another product, Re-Box is ideal for fragile items — it has a sturdy construction with internal cushioning for impact resistance. Both packaging types are repairable and come in multiple sizes, catering to different product dimensions and weights. Repax’s system allows easy return of used packaging to couriers or designated drop-off points. This process ensures a sustainable cycle of use and reuse, significantly reducing waste from single-use packaging.
Sourceful develops a Sustainable Packaging Design Platform
Sourceful is a startup from the UK that builds a platform where users can design custom sustainable packaging online. The platform provides real-time data to help brands understand and minimize their packaging footprint. It includes a proprietary live carbon calculator for packaging and also suggests carbon removal projects for offsetting footprints. Sourceful also provides full life cycle assessment data, to ensure the packaging choices are environmentally responsible.
Sourceful’s products are certified by leading sustainability standards, including FSC and GRS, ensuring responsible sourcing. Thus, they are able to customize size, design, and, add artwork, brand colors, and image, while also reducing carbon footprint. The platform also features live pricing, eliminating the need for waiting on quotes, and offers 3D prototyping to implement ideas quickly. Sourceful leverages AI for visual idea generation and conception, making the design process faster and more efficient.
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Source Green develops Planet-Friendly Packaging
Source Green is a Hong Kong-based startup that offers a sustainable packaging platform. It connects brands with bio-based packaging solutions and also helps brands calculate and reduce their plastic footprint. By using Source Green’s platform, brands gain insights into their environmental impacts, health impacts, natural extraction, and microplastic generation from their packaging.
The platform also lets brands create a plastic-free roadmap and track their progress with monthly reports. It notifies brands about personalized product recommendations based on their product and use-cases to switch to sustainable packaging. This enables a cost-effective plan to switch to plastic-free packaging.
Parcel Health offers Mineral-coated Paper Packaging
US-based startup Parcel Health develops mineral-coated paper packaging for the pharmaceutical industry. The startup’s Phill Box is a fully recyclable and compostable medication packaging that replaces orange pill bottles. Its mineral coating on the paper package makes it water and grease-resistant.
Moreover, the package integrates seamlessly into existing pharmacy workflows and enhances the medication-taking experience for patients. Phill Box has a three-step lock that keeps the contents safe from children but remains easy to open for older adults. Parcel Health’s packaging solution reduces environmental impacts, improves patient satisfaction and adherence, and saves costs on shipping and storage.
Kelpi offers Kelp-based Packaging
UK-based startup kelpi replaces plastic packaging with bioplastics made from seaweed. The startup’s kelp-based bioplastic adapts to various applications, such as poly bags for fashion, hot food trays, and thin-film solutions. As seaweed is biodegradable, the packaging breaks down without any damaging consequences once they reach landfills or water bodies.
Kelp-based bioplastics feature an oxygen barrier and desiccant functions that outperform fossil fuel plastics. kelpi’s bioplastic thus offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastics by using seaweed, which is abundant.
WEGE COMPANY makes Banana Waste-based Poly Bags
WEGE COMPANY is a Burundi-based startup that provides eco-friendly packaging. The startup collects banana trash from farmers after harvesting and transforms it into a biodegradable and compostable packaging alternative, NDIHOSE PACKAGE. the startup’s packaging is an alternative to plastic bags, which pollute the environment and harm marine life.
It comes in different colors and is available in two types, one with and one without a handle on its top. WEGE COMPANY thus provides inexpensive, reusable, and eco-friendly packaging that contributes to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Circulate offers an Eco-Friendly Packaging Marketplace
Swedish startup Circulate offers an online marketplace for sustainable packaging. It helps businesses find packaging solutions that pass through the startup’s strict sustainability criteria. The startup offers products an overall sustainability score and labels them to describe their key characteristics, making buying decisions easier for businesses.
Circulate also connects customers with verified suppliers that deliver packages that meet high environmental standards. The startup’s website also provides businesses with a tool to check the sustainability of their current packaging for better decision support. By using Circulate, businesses save time and money, reduce their environmental impacts, and create a positive customer experience.
Low imPACK makes Packaging from Textile Waste
Low imPACK is an Estonian startup that offers reusable packaging made from recycled textile waste. The startup’s packages feature a rigid protective structure and a moisture-repellent surface that businesses customize with their proprietary branding. The textile-based packaging also has higher tear resistance, making it suitable for longer use or reuse.
Low imPACK’s production process for textile waste-based packaging has a lower carbon footprint than cardboard-based packages. Consumers return the packages by scanning the QR code and dropping it off at a nearby return box. This system makes it easy for businesses to encourage sustainable behavior among their customers while also building their brand image and promoting sustainability.
IonKraft develops Recyclable Plasma-coated Packaging
IonKraft is a German startup that makes and coats plastic packaging with a chemically resistant barrier using plasma technology. It uses plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) to deposit the coating onto the plastic packaging. This technology enables plastic packaging to be recyclable and replace multi-material containers that are difficult to recycle.
The startup also applies the coating system to a wide range of packaging types and designs, making it suitable for the food, pharma, cosmetics, household chemical, and industrial chemical industries. The startup’s coating chemically bonds to the inner surface of the packaging and is non-reactive and chemically inert. This makes it an effective and widely applicable sustainable packaging solution.
Perflute provides Fiber-based Packaging
Australian startup Perflute develops eco-friendly packaging materials to replace plastic bubble wrap products. The startup utilizes a patented fiber-based material that is recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, and made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) feedstocks. This material offers superior impact protection and thermal insulation for various applications.
It is also available as pre-cut sheets and rolls, padded mailers, and cold chain insulation. As it is made from fibers, it is cost-competitive, making it a commercially viable option for businesses. Perflute’s packaging thus allows businesses and consumers to reduce their reliance on virgin materials and mitigate associated environmental impact.
BIOLO manufactures Bioplastic Packaging
Biolo is a US-based startup that offers a sustainable bioplastic packaging solution. The startup uses Nodax polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), a biopolymer made from plants, to make its packages. It biodegrades in microbial catalysts with soil, water, and compost, but not in water alone.
This ensures that the packaging and the product within are never soggy, regardless of exposure to wet surfaces. Biolo produces home compostable bags, mailers, straws, and more to replace single-use plastic packages. The startup’s PHA-based packaging provides businesses with eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based plastics that are convenient, affordable, as well as heat and water-resistant.
Impackt advances Package Recycling
Impackt is a Dutch startup that provides a packaging recycling platform for businesses. By setting up collection points outside retail stores, consumers return used plastic packaging and Impackt recycles it and provides exclusive store discounts. The platform helps retailers and brands increase customer loyalty and brand awareness by incentivizing consumers to recycle their plastic packaging.
It also increases sales turnover in the store due to the in-app discounts, creating more footfall in the store. Moreover, the platform helps businesses achieve their recycling goals by delivering insights into consumption, recycling, and marketing through a dashboard. As a result, Impackt’s recycling platform helps businesses become more sustainable while also providing benefits for consumers.
Discover All Emerging Packaging Startups
The packaging startups showcased in this report are only a small sample of all startups we identified through our data-driven startup scouting approach. Download our free Packaging Innovation Report for a broad overview of the industry or get in touch for quick & exhaustive research on the latest technologies & emerging solutions that will impact your company in 2024!
