Is Cardboard Really More Eco-Friendly Than Plastic?

For years, cardboard has been perceived as a more sustainable option than plastic. But… is it really? In this article, we explore its environmental impact, recyclability, effectiveness in food preservation, and what alternatives exist today to reduce our ecological footprint.

Cardboard food packaging

How is cardboard made?

Cardboard is made from cellulose fibers obtained from wood pulp. Producing just one ton of cardboard requires approximately 24 trees, along with large amounts of water and energy.

Although it’s biodegradable and recyclable several times, its manufacturing process leaves a significant environmental footprint, especially when it doesn’t come from sustainably managed forests.

How recyclable and biodegradable is it?

In countries like the UK, between 70% and 80% of cardboard is recycled. However, that doesn’t mean all cardboard is properly recycled. When it ends up in landfills and decomposes without oxygen, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO₂.

Also, with each recycling cycle, cardboard loses strength and quality, limiting its long-term usability.

How does it compare to plastic?

Despite its green reputation, cardboard can generate more greenhouse gas emissions than plastic during production, due to its resource-heavy process and transportation impact (cardboard is bulkier and heavier, requiring more fuel).

On the other hand, plastic remains one of the most efficient materials for food preservation. Thanks to its excellent barrier properties against moisture, bacteria, and oxygen, it extends the shelf life of fresh products, helping reduce food waste significantly.

What about food preservation?

When it comes to packaging perishable foods, cardboard has several critical limitations:

• It's not moisture-resistant

• It can absorb odors and contaminants

• It offers poor protection for freshness

  
  

By contrast, high-tech plastic packaging, like the ones we design at Gurpa Bio, can include modified atmosphere technology, hermetic seals, and functional barriers that prolong freshness, reduce waste, and protect food from contamination.

More sustainable alternatives: compostable and recyclable plastics

The key is not choosing cardboard over plastic, but rather developing responsible, circular packaging solutions.

At Gurpa Bio, we create flexible packaging that:

• Is certified compostable or recyclable.

• Meets strict food safety and preservation standards.

• Helps our clients reduce food waste and improve logistics efficiency.

  
  

  

  Compostable Packaging of Gurpa Bio