The cannabis industry is growing fast, and with it comes the challenge of meeting strict packaging regulations while staying eco-friendly. Packaging rules require child-resistant, durable designs, but these often lead to waste and overuse of plastic. At the same time, today’s consumers want brands to offer sustainable options.

In this guide, we’ll look at practical ways to reduce waste in cannabis packaging.

The Problem: Regulatory Challenges Leading to Excessive Packaging Waste

Cannabis packaging regulations, while essential for consumer safety, have led to excessive waste across the industry. Marijuana Moment recently highlighted a study published by Oaksterdam University that found cannabis packaging waste in California alone is on par with household pharmaceuticals in the state. Here are some key regulatory factors contributing to this issue:

1. Child-Resistant (CR) Closures

In the cannabis industry, plastic has unfortunately become the go-to material for child-resistant (CR) packaging. Options like mylar bags and pop-top containers are currently dominating the market. This reliance on plastic, largely due to its low cost, has come at a significant environmental cost. Unlike recyclable materials, plastic CR packaging is notoriously difficult to dispose of responsibly. This, in turn, has added to the immense amount of non-recyclable waste in landfills.

While plastic may meet regulatory standards for child safety, it compromises the product’s quality, lacks durability, and fails to align with today’s sustainability goals.

2. Extensive Labeling Requirements

Cannabis packaging must display a range of mandatory information, from warning labels and universal symbols to ingredient lists and dosage information. Many brands rely on single-use labels to meet these requirements, which not only add extra waste but also limit recyclability. According to the study covered by Marijuana Moment, California’s stringent labeling requirements have led to “a 37% increase in packaging volume” since legalization began in 2018, resulting in far more waste than before.

3. Shifts in Consumer Behavior and Regulatory Gaps

The cannabis industry has shifted from traditional flower to a wider range of products like vapes, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. These products have different packaging needs that often require additional or more complex materials, leading to more waste. Consumer preferences for vape products have particularly strained the industry’s sustainability efforts due to the battery and plastic components involved in vape packaging—a new and significant source of waste identified by the recent study.

As the industry evolves, there’s an urgent need for updated regulations and infrastructure that can support sustainable practices.

The Solution: Eco-Friendly Packaging Materials That Meet Compliance

To counter the waste impact of cannabis packaging, brands are turning to sustainable materials that meet regulatory standards without sacrificing quality. Here are some effective solutions:

1. Recyclable and Reusable Metal Packaging

Materials like tin and aluminum offer cannabis brands an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic. Tin and aluminum packaging are durable, recyclable, and offer a premium look and feel that stands out on the shelves. These materials are ideal for cannabis brands seeking sustainable options that fulfill CR requirements without compromising on appearance.

2. Sustainable Plastics (PCR and Sugarcane-Based Plastics)

Post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics and bioplastics made from sugarcane are eco-friendly materials that meet packaging regulations while reducing reliance on traditional plastic. PCR plastics repurpose existing plastic waste, giving it a new life and keeping it out of landfills. Sugarcane-based plastics, on the other hand, are biodegradable and reduce the carbon footprint of packaging.

3. Direct Printing to Eliminate Excess Labeling Waste

Direct printing on packaging allows you to include all necessary information without additional labels, reducing waste and improving recyclability. This approach ensures that all legal information is present while streamlining the overall design and reducing materials. Direct printing works well on metal, glass, and certain sustainable plastics, providing a professional, cohesive look while minimizing waste.

The Implementation: How to Reduce Waste in Cannabis Packaging

At The Packaging Company, we specialize in helping cannabis brands transition to sustainable, premium packaging solutions that meet regulatory standards. Here’s how our offerings can help you achieve this goal:

1. Customizable Tin Cases, Aluminum Tubes, and Glass Jars

Our range of child-resistant packaging options spans tin cases, aluminum tubes, and glass jars—all tailored to reduce waste without sacrificing quality or compliance. Here’s how each product type can work for you:

• Tin Cases: These sleek, durable tin cases are reminiscent of classic cigarette tins, making them ideal for pre-rolls and edibles. Crafted from recyclable tinplate, they feature secure child-resistant closures to ensure safety while adding a touch of vintage appeal. Tin cases are perfect for brands looking to stand out with a sturdy, reusable packaging option that keeps your products fresh and protected.
• Aluminum Tubes: Lightweight and portable, these aluminum tubes evoke the classic look of old cigar tubes, designed to hold single pre-rolls, cartridges, or other small items. Aluminum’s recyclability and durability make these tubes a great choice for eco-conscious brands. Plus, the CR closures on our aluminum tubes provide compliance with safety regulations, while their streamlined design offers a premium, on-the-go packaging solution.
• Glass Jars: Glass jars are a premium option for concentrates and edibles, providing an upscale look and feel while being fully recyclable. These jars come in various sizes and offer long-lasting product freshness, making them a favorite among consumers who value reusability and sustainability.

2. Direct Printing Services for Full Compliance

Our direct printing services allow you to meet all regulatory labeling requirements by printing product information directly on the packaging. By opting for direct printing on our tin cases, aluminum tubes, and glass jars, you eliminate the need for extra labels or inserts, reducing overall waste and enhancing your brand’s presentation with a sleek, consistent look.

3. Elevate Brand Perception with Premium, Sustainable Packaging

Consumers today recognize quality and value eco-friendly products. When they encounter high-quality, reusable packaging—such as recyclable tin cases, aluminum tubes, and glass jars—they’re more likely to reuse these containers, keeping your brand visible long after the initial purchase. By investing in premium packaging, your products stand out, supporting a positive brand image while actively reducing environmental impact.

Moving Toward a Greener Future

At The Packaging Company, we’re committed to providing eco-friendly options that elevate your brand, meet regulatory requirements, and support a more sustainable industry. Contact us today to explore how to reduce waste in your cannabis packaging.