Amazon's New Look Sustainable Packaging to Achieve Net-Zero by 2040

Amazon Develops Shock-Proof, Lightweight, and Fully Recyclable Paper Envelope in the UK

Amazon has introduced an innovative new paper-padded envelope designed in the UK, as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing unnecessary packaging. Created in collaboration with packaging experts Mondi, this new envelope is fully recyclable at home and free from plastic content. It features a shock-absorbent, paper-based lining that replaces traditional bubble-wrap-lined envelopes.

A Sustainable Solution for UK Deliveries

This eco-friendly envelope has already started arriving on doorsteps across the UK. Unlike previous packaging solutions that relied on bubble wrap, Amazon’s new design prioritises recyclability without compromising on protection. Customers increasingly demand packaging that is not only sustainable but also robust enough to prevent damage during delivery. When fully recyclable options aren't viable, Amazon optimises its packaging materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions while maintaining safety and functionality.

Lightweight and Effective Design

One of the key benefits of this new paper envelope is its lightweight structure. It is significantly lighter than comparable cardboard boxes, saving an average of 44 grams of packaging per shipment. The envelope’s flexibility allows for efficient use of space, meaning it can be packed easily without the need for additional materials like paper dunnage. This means less waste overall, both in terms of excess packaging and added weight during shipping.

Thais Blumer, European Head of Sustainable Packaging for Amazon, said: “Amazon stopped using traditional bubble-wrap padded envelopes in Europe several years ago, which presented a challenge to develop light, flexible, and fully recyclable paper packaging that provides the same protection. Achieving both low weight and maximum protection with a 100% recyclable paper envelope was not an easy task, but these envelopes are easy to pack, simple for customers to recycle at home, and enable damage-free deliveries.”

How It Works

The strength of the new paper-padded envelope comes from the carefully engineered lightweight paper used in its outer layer, combined with a corrugated inner lining. This lining offers durability and protection despite being only a few millimetres thick. The ridged design allows the envelope to securely wrap around its contents, reducing the risk of damage by preventing items from shifting during transit.

Pedro Cuesta, a packaging engineer from Mondi, explained the collaborative process: “Together with Amazon, we spent several months testing our designs, evaluating various padding options such as honeycomb and embossed bubble paper. Ultimately, open-flute padding — a flat paper sheet attached to a sheet of ridged paper — proved to be the best solution.”

A Collaborative Journey Towards Sustainability

This new envelope is part of Amazon’s broader mission to make its operations more sustainable. The company has been actively reducing its use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in packaging.

Already, more than 50% of Amazon's European shipments arrive in reduced, recyclable delivery packaging, such as paper bags or cardboard envelopes. Since 2019, around 700 million shipments have been sent through Amazon’s “Ships in Product Packaging” programme, eliminating the need for additional packaging altogether.

Since 2015, Amazon has reduced the weight of its packaging per shipment by 43%, equating to over 3 million metric tonnes of packaging materials saved. This not only benefits the environment but also improves logistics. By reducing the size and weight of packages, Amazon can fit more deliveries into each van, leading to fewer delivery journeys and helping the company move closer to its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Available in Multiple Sizes

The new paper-padded envelopes are available in three sizes and are suitable for a wide range of items, from skincare products and health supplements to home, office, and children’s toys. Their versatile design ensures that both single and multiple products can be securely packaged and shipped.

This paper envelope marks another step forward in Amazon’s drive to reduce its environmental impact, demonstrating how innovation can lead to practical, sustainable solutions in everyday operations. As Amazon continues to roll out this packaging across the UK and Europe, customers can enjoy both secure deliveries and the knowledge that their packaging can be easily recycled at home.

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