In today’s episode, Saloni Doshi helps us see beyond the hype to understand what sustainable packaging really means. Saloni is the CEO and self-proclaimed “Chief Sustainability Geek” of EcoEnclose, a packaging manufacturer that offers guidance to brands wanting to become more sustainable without breaking the bank. Saloni describes how EcoEnclose collaborates with producers of innovative packaging materials made from regenerative sources like seaweed and discusses new environmental regulations that will impact how brands label their products. Check out the podcast below!
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Here are examples of the sustainable packaging mentioned in this episode:
Shipping Box with Algae Ink
Secondary Beauty Packaging
Cosmetic Shipping Boxes
Spirits Shipping Box
Paper Mailers
Reusable Mailers
Padded Mailers
Green Wrap
Spiropak
Summary of Beyond the Hype—Sustainable Packaging
Here are the key insights from our interview with Saloni Doshi, the co-owner of EcoEnclose, a sustainable packaging company. The interview, featured on the Entrepreneur Mindspeak podcast, explores EcoEnclose’s journey, commitment to sustainability, innovative solutions, and advice for businesses seeking eco-friendly packaging.
Key Themes & Insights
- The True Meaning of Sustainable Packaging: Saloni emphasizes that true sustainability means achieving packaging circularity, where packaging is made from recycled packaging and can be recycled again endlessly. The input materials should also be regenerative, contributing positively to the environment. This vision drives EcoEnclose’s rigorous framework, prioritizing post-consumer waste, high recycled content, readily recyclable design, and regenerative materials.
“We want to [create] a future in which one day all packaging is largely made out of packaging and becomes packaging again in its next life… the net inputs that are going into the packaging being produced are regenerative rather than today’s net inputs [which] are extractive.” – Saloni Doshi
- Debunking Recycling Myths: While acknowledging issues like “wishcycling,” Saloni reassures listeners that the recycling infrastructure is stronger than perceived. Recyclers, as businesses, depend on selling collected materials, ensuring proper recycling of accepted items. The key lies in adhering to recycler guidelines and understanding what is truly recyclable.
“Recyclers are businesses that only work if they can sell… what they receive and so as long as you’re recycling what they can accept largely that is finding markets and getting sold and oftentimes getting converted back into recycling.” – Saloni Doshi
- Innovating for a Regenerative Future: EcoEnclose actively seeks packaging materials with net-positive production impacts. Their partnership with Sway, a company developing seaweed-based plastic, showcases this commitment. This innovative material, used for windows in paper boxes and potentially for poly bags, exemplifies their dedication to sourcing regenerative inputs.
“Sway is a developer of a plastic made out of seaweed… the seaweed production is regenerative… it’s restoring the coastal ecosystems, it’s creating [livelihoods] for coastal communities… it could be carbon sequestering, it could help reverse ocean acidification.” – Saloni Doshi
- Navigating Compromises and Finding Solutions: Saloni acknowledges that businesses often face trade-offs between sustainability, aesthetics, budget, and functionality. EcoEnclose addresses this through their Eco Ally experience, focusing on providing the best and most suitable packaging solutions for each brand’s unique needs, fostering transparency, and ensuring exceptional service and support.
“We’re not here to shove the most perfect packaging solution… We’re here to say like we have a range of offerings and we’re going to help match you to the one that works.” – Saloni Doshi
- Evolving Regulatory Landscape: Saloni provides valuable insights into the emerging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation. She highlights both the positive impacts, like incentivizing sustainable practices and investing in waste management, and potential downsides, like increased fear of mislabeling and lawsuits.
“EPR … is asking or is requiring Brands to join a PRO… you will pay fees… based on how much packaging you sell to a state and then those fees are presumably going to go into the investment in waste management and recyclability and composting in that state.” – Saloni Doshi
EcoEnclose: A Partner for Sustainable Growth
EcoEnclose works with a diverse range of clients, from small startups to large brands, offering various options to meet individual needs and budgets. Their commitment to transparency, customer support, and problem-solving solidifies their position as a reliable partner in the transition to sustainable packaging.
Advice for Entrepreneurs:
- Embrace Progress Over Perfection: Focus on making incremental improvements, starting with replacing virgin content with recycled materials.
- Prioritize Transparency: Clearly communicate the sustainability features of your packaging to customers, acknowledging any limitations.
- Partner with Experts: Leverage the knowledge and expertise of companies like EcoEnclose to navigate the complexities of sustainable packaging.
The Future of EcoEnclose:
EcoEnclose’s ultimate goal is to offer packaging solutions that are net-positive for the planet. They are continuously exploring innovative materials and processes, striving to create a future where packaging contributes to a healthier environment. They also envision a company culture that fosters growth and development for their employees.
Saloni Doshi
CEO and Chief Sustainability Geek
EcoEnclose
Saloni serves as the CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer at EcoEnclose, a leading innovator in sustainable shipping solutions for eCommerce businesses. She is deeply committed to supporting mission-driven companies and driving progress toward a fully circular materials economy.
Throughout her career, Saloni has focused on the intersection of social justice, environmental sustainability, and strategic growth. She holds a degree in Operations Research from Princeton University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.
Saloni resides in Colorado with her husband and their three children, who fuel her hope and inspiration for the planet’s future and its diverse ecosystems.
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