Are Paper Boxes Biodegradable?

In the last few years, cardboard has become the packaging material of choice for large and small companies and people in their everyday lives. Whether we are talking about packaging industrial quantities or just a few clothes ordered online, cardboard boxes are now the to-go option for transporting goods. 

The reason is simple: they are easy to make, strong enough to withstand significant weight, and can be designed according to each company's personal preferences. Everything can be customized from color to shape. Find more information here. 

Of course, the questions arise - are cardboard boxes good for the environment? Are they biodegradable? The answer is yes in both cases. Below, you will find several reasons why cardboard boxes are a safe choice compared to other modes of packaging or storage.

Paper Boxes Are Almost 100% Biodegradable

Paper boxes are mostly made of corrugated cardboard, which completely degrades within six to 12 months. As they are made of cellulose, the decomposition period can be even shorter if exposed to the right conditions, especially wetness or humidity. 

Of course, you must take into account that tape is often used to seal paper boxes-which is plastic-so it is difficult to degrade. To facilitate the biodegradation process of paper packages, it is recommended to remove all the tape.

They Are Compostable 

Cardboard substances are beneficial for the soil, which is why their use as compost is recommended. Since cardboard is made almost entirely from paper, it is considered a natural resource. The natural cycle says that what comes from nature must at some point return to nature, and cardboard fits perfectly within this rule, being perfect for composting. 

Paper is essentially biodegradable and, if exposed to the right conditions, can break down in soil quickly. Cardboard boxes also decompose according to similar rules. To facilitate the process, boxes can be soaked in warm water before being put on the ground. This will break down the paper fibers and make it easier for the micro-organisms to disintegrate. 

Paper Boxes Have the Lowest Impact on the Environment 

The cardboard from which boxes are made is a material that, compared to metal, glass, or plastic, has the lowest environmental impact. Little energy is used to make cardboard, as the process is quite simple. Moreover, because it does not require combustion, the manufacture is not damaging to nature and is not an active factor in CO2 emissions.  

Cardboard Is Easily Recycled 

Cardboard boxes are easy to recycle. They don't take up much space, so recycling them won't hinder people or factories. They are also easy to remanufacture and do not lose any of their quality or strength after the process. For this reason, they are perfect for recycling and reusing.

Paper Boxes Help Minimize Waste 

Because cardboard boxes are easy to recycle and reuse, they help reduce waste considerably. Moreover, recycling cardboard saves energy instead of being used to manufacture other products. Manufacturing them requires 50% less electricity and 90% less water than other resources. It goes without saying that cardboard boxes are the best option for packing and transporting goods.