Innovation

EcoEnclose has transformed the packaging industry with innovative sustainable packaging solutions, offering an alternative to an industry previously characterized by excessive waste and using virgin materials that create harmful environmental impacts. EcoEnclose’s innovation in packaging prioritizes materials circularity, regenerative materials, and eco-conscious practices. Materials circularity is important because it is a core component of the UN’s SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) with efficient use of natural resources (target 12.2) and reduction of waste generation (target 12.5). This includes products like algae printing ink, wheat straw kraft bags, GreenWrap (alternative to bubble wrap), and 100% recycled poly mailers with higher levels (50%) of post-consumer waste (PCW).

The company’s sustainable products were developed in response to concern for the environment, demand for eco-friendly packaging, and a desire to ship products more sustainably. EcoEnclose’s journey began with a process consisting of 88% recycled poly mailer with 25% PCW. Through continuous research, collaboration, testing, and feedback, the company has been able to expand to over 200 shipping solutions, of which almost all are 100% recycled/recyclable. This aligns with the UN’s SDG 13 - addressing climate change by reducing reliance on materials with greater environmental impacts.

Both internal and external stakeholders, named EcoAllies, are involved in the creation of EcoEnclose’s packaging innovations. For example, 100% recycled kraft bags (an alternative to clear poly bags) came from customers constantly asking how they can eliminate plastic from inner packaging, without using virgin (0% recycled) paper, helping to make exchanges of goods more sustainable (SDG 11). Sarah Quirk, Sustainability Manager at EcoEnclose stated, “One reason we’re successful is our relationships with the entities involved in our supply chain operations.” Suppliers of sustainable materials and technologies have played a crucial role as well, allowing ever-increasing levels of PCW content and experiments with alternative materials such as wheatstraw (agricultural waste) feedstock, and seaweed films.

EcoEnclose’s innovation in sustainable packaging is driven by the company’s mission of sustainability, positive environmental impact, and relentless focus on customer needs. The company aims to, “work towards a future in which our products, operations, and supply chain are a positive, regenerative force for the planet.” The founders believe that businesses have a profound responsibility to act as stewards of the environment. This belief drives EcoEnclose and EcoAllies to continually seek out and develop sustainable materials and processes that minimize harm to the planet, with the goal of a future where packaging is net positive.

Inspiration

EcoEnclose began in 2010, under Erin Kimmett, who wanted to supply her own reusable diaper business, Thirsties, with sustainable shipping supplies. Kimmett had been upset that she had to ship her eco-friendly diaper products in single-use plastic. Unable to find eco-friendly packaging solutions, she founded EcoEnclose to achieve her goal, starting with a recycled poly mailer.

While the mission has remained largely the same, it was not until 2015 when current owners Saloni Doshi and Kyle Wente acquired the business from Kimmet, that EcoEnclose began to scale its product offerings and dive deeper into innovation. Motivated by a deep sense of responsibility for the environment, EcoEnclose's founders aimed to make a way “for packaging to be truly sustainable and circular,” not just on shipping products sustainably. In doing so, EcoEnclose has become a trailblazer in the eco-friendly packaging sector.

Overall impact

EcoEnclose's packaging innovation has had a profound impact on business, society, and the environment. The company's dedication to sustainable practices and material circularity has not only differentiated it in the marketplace but also fostered a loyal customer base and a positive brand image. Their close relationship with their supply chain network has enabled them to refine products, reduce risks, and solidify their position as a leader in sustainable packaging innovation, yielding economic success.

On an environmental front, their use of recycled and sustainable materials, coupled with material circularity, significantly reduces their environmental footprint. At the societal level, EcoEnclose's commitment to sustainability has raised awareness about eco-friendly packaging choices and influenced environmentally responsible behaviors. The company's educational efforts and advocacy contribute to a broader understanding of the importance of such choices.

While already impactful in the short term, EcoEnclose's constant commitment to finding new packaging solutions practices can make a substantial positive impact on the planet and how businesses approach packaging. Sarah mentioned how EcoEnclose will “continue to constantly improve packaging products, hopefully expanding with greater product innovation into other industries like retail and food.”

Business benefit

Competitive Advantage: By consistently pioneering eco-friendly packaging solutions and materials, EcoEnclose establishes itself as a market leader. This differentiates the company from competitors and positions it as a go-to choice for environmentally conscious packaging needs, allowing the firm to grow to $20 - 30 million in revenue for 2022.

Attracting Talent: EcoEnclose’s strong commitment to sustainability helps attract and retain top talent looking for meaningful work. Aligning innovation with sustainability contributes to a sense of purpose among employees and stakeholders. Sarah spoke on how “the team is positively motivated internally to make change” and “all have the common goal to overcome these environmental issues.”

Constant Product Improvement: EcoEnclose values customer feedback, which has helped initiate many of the company’s packaging innovations. The firm’s beta user program allows performance validation of innovative products in real-world use cases and determines whether or not the packaging can be launched to a broader market. Engaging with beta users in the development process fosters stronger customer relationships and demonstrates EcoEnclose’s commitment to quality and sustainability.

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Social and environmental benefit

Resource Conservation: By promoting the use of renewable and recycled materials, EcoEnclose conserves natural resources, including water and raw materials, benefiting the environment and future generations. In 2022 EcoEnclose’s recycled packaging created a demand for over 4 million pounds of recycled paper and 6.5 million pounds of recycled plastic, keeping those materials from going to the landfills and giving them another life in packaging. 21 million gallons of water were also saved through the use of recycled packaging compared to virgin materials.

Reduced Environmental Footprint: EcoEnclose's use of recycled and sustainable materials reduces the demand for virgin resources, contributing to lower deforestation, reduced energy consumption, and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to products made with virgin materials, in 2022 EcoEnclose’s recycled packaging protected the equivalent of 11,990 acres of forest and negated the use of 5,412 barrels of oil.

Market Transformation: EcoEnclose's success in the market encourages other businesses to adopt more sustainable packaging practices, leading to a broader industry shift towards eco-conscious solutions. Sarah mentioned how with innovative packaging materials, “no one wants to be the first,” but once it is an effective replacement and viable in the market, then “everyone wants to be second.”

Interview

Sarah Quirk, Sustainability Manager