Paper Packaging tops global sustainability rankings – 2025 Two Sides Trend Tracker Survey

SOUTH AFRICA – Paper-based packaging continues to lead as the world’s most preferred sustainable packaging material, according to the 2025 Two Sides Trend Tracker Survey, with South African consumers echoing the global sentiment that paper and cardboard offer the best balance of recyclability, renewability, and practicality.

The survey, spanning thousands of respondents across major markets, found that paper packaging ranked highest among 15 environmental, visual, and functional attributes, ahead of glass, plastic, and metal.

In South Africa, 64% of respondents said they prefer products ordered online to arrive in paper packaging, up from 58% in 2023, while 58% said they are actively increasing their use of paper-based materials.

According to the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA), this growing preference reflects increasing awareness of paper’s circular advantages.

“Paper-based packaging is made from renewable wood fibre sourced from sustainably managed forests or recycled paper,” said Samantha Choles, PAMSA’s communications manager.

“It offers recyclability, biodegradability, safety, and cost-effectiveness, qualities that consumers value in sustainable packaging.”

The survey also found that 75% of respondents regard paper and cardboard as the most compostable and biodegradable materials, 53% see them as best for the environment, and 51% find them the easiest to recycle.

Glass ranked highest for aesthetics and brand image, plastic for storage convenience, and metal for strength and durability.

Choles noted that while paper cannot always replace other packaging materials, it remains the “unsung hero of renewability.”

Only 7–10% of South Africa’s 850,000 harvested trees are cut each year, with immediate replanting ensuring long-term carbon capture.

“Recycled fibre from used paper and packaging further supports the circular economy,” she added.

The survey revealed encouraging shifts in recycling behavior: 69% of respondents recycle their paper-based packaging, while 81% understand what can be recycled, up from 78% last year.

South Africa’s paper mills recover about 1.2 million tonnes of paper and packaging annually, aided by informal collectors and recycling firms.

In terms of policy, 66% of respondents believe non-recyclable packaging should be discouraged through taxation, while more than half said they would avoid retailers not reducing such packaging.

“Paper packaging meets both practical and aesthetic needs, it’s easy to print, lightweight, and versatile,” concluded Choles.

In an era of sustainability-driven brand identity, paper is helping businesses reflect their environmental commitments responsibly.”

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