Beyond the Box: Rethinking Packaging for a Greener Philippines

Hungrytravelduo
Feb 16
4 min read

Did you know the Philippines consumes a staggering 163 million sachets—small, single-use packets that contribute significantly to our plastic waste problem? This "tingi culture" or even Sachet Economy” has led to the country generating approximately 2.7 million tons of plastic waste annually, with an estimated 20% ending up in our oceans. Andami diba?

As a business owner, you might wonder: How can I help reduce this waste without compromising my product's safety or my bottom line?

Some of the sustainable packaging and products we saw at the recently concluded Propak Philippines 2025 expo.

The Unboxing Problem

Imagine ordering a simple bar of soap online. When it arrives, it's encased in multiple layers of plastic, nestled within a box that's far too large, and wrapped in yet another plastic pouch. You discard most of this packaging, feeling a pang of guilt. Yet, as a business owner, you understand that packaging is essential for protection, branding, and logistics.

But here's the real question: How much of this packaging is truly necessary?

The Hard Truth: Excess Packaging in today’s Supply Chain

The rise of e-commerce in the Philippines has led to a significant increase in packaging waste. In 2023, the country generated approximately 60,640 tons of waste per day, a figure that has been steadily increasing over the years.

This surge in waste is not just a global issue; it's a pressing concern right here at home. Our beautiful islands and rich marine biodiversity are at risk, with plastic waste clogging waterways and endangering wildlife.

The Economic Cost of Plastic Waste

According to the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), the World Bank estimates that the Philippines loses between $790 million and $890 million in material value annually due to the disposal of single-use plastics instead of their recovery and recycling. These figures highlight the urgent need for improved waste management systems and sustainable practices.

Zed Avecilla with the eco warrior guests at the PARMS booth at Propak Philippines 2025.

What’s the Cost of Change?

Transitioning to sustainable packaging might seem daunting, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Sustainable materials can be more expensive than traditional plastics. However, sustainability doesn't have to break the bank. It's about making intentional choices that balance function, cost, and environmental impact.

Smart Ways to Make Packaging More Sustainable

Audit Your Packaging: Evaluate your current materials. Can you reduce or replace them without compromising product safety?
Offer Minimalist Options: Give customers the choice of "minimal packaging" at checkout. Brands like Back to Basics Ecostore in the Philippines have successfully implemented this, allowing customers to bring their own containers and reduce waste.
Use Multi-Function Materials: Opt for packaging that serves multiple purposes or is easily reusable. For instance, some Filipino innovators are developing bioplastics from corn husks and seaweed, providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging.

Shampoo Bars in Eco-packaging by The Eco Shift.

Learn from Local Leaders: One notable example is The Eco Shift, a Filipino brand committed to offering sustainable alternatives to everyday essentials, including packaging. By embracing eco-friendly materials such as compostable mailers, reusable wraps, and biodegradable adhesives, The Eco Shift has successfully demonstrated that businesses can thrive while reducing their environmental impact. Their model proves that sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into product packaging without sacrificing affordability or quality.

Think Long-Term: Investing in sustainable packaging can align your business with future regulations, such as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law in the Philippines, which mandates companies to manage their plastic waste. Take for example Econest who was highly praised during the Propak Expo because of its sustainable food packaging solutions like their Bagasse food containers and Cassava Bags.

For more insights on the state of plastic waste and recycling in the Philippines, visit PARMS.

No need for BIG CHANGES. Start Where You Are!

There's no one-size-fits-all solution, but every small change contributes to a larger impact. Instead of focusing on what's impossible, start with practical steps: reduce unnecessary materials, choose smarter packaging, and offer your customers better options.

Check out these eco-friendly, sustainable packaging options by local Philippine printers like Pinyapel - paper products and packaging made from pineapple fiber waste.

Challenge Yourself: The 30-Day Sustainable Packaging Trial

Are you ready to make a change? Here's a fun challenge for your business:

Week 1: Audit your current packaging. Identify at least one material you can reduce or replace.
Week 2: Research and source sustainable packaging alternatives that fit your budget.
Week 3: Implement a "minimal packaging" option for your customers and promote it through your channels.
Week 4: Gather feedback from your customers and assess the impact on your costs and waste reduction.

Share your journey on social media using the hashtag #SustainablePH and inspire other MSMEs to join the movement. Remember, packaging isn't just about enclosing a product—it's about delivering value sustainably and efficiently. Let's lead the way towards a greener future for the Philippines.

Thank you Propak Philippines for hosting the very insightful tradeshow last week. So much insights in your learning sessions!