In a world facing an escalating climate crisis, companies are rethinking the materials they use from raw inputs to packaging. One of the most effective and visible changes a business can make is to replace plastic sacks with paper-based alternatives. At Peter Marsh Group, we’ve been helping businesses make that transition for decades—delivering not just reliable packaging, but real environmental results.

The Environmental Case Against Plastic

Plastic sacks have long been used for their durability and water resistance, but the environmental costs are now too high to ignore:

  • Non-renewable origin: Most plastics are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to climate change.
  • Long degradation time: A single plastic sack can take up to 1,000 years to decompose.
  • Low recycling rates: In the UK, flexible plastics like sacks and films have recycling rates of just 6%.
  • Ocean pollution: Over 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans each year, harming marine life and ecosystems.

In contrast, paper sacks offer a sustainable solution that’s renewable, biodegradable, recyclable, and circular.

How Paper Makes a Positive Impact

Switching to paper sacks offers measurable sustainability benefits across several key metrics:

  • 1) Lower Carbon Footprint

Studies show that producing paper sacks requires significantly less fossil energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases than plastic. For instance, a typical paper sack has up to 70% lower GHG emissions compared to a plastic equivalent, particularly when made from FSC®-certified virgin or recycled kraft paper.

  • 2) Biodegradability & Compostability

Paper breaks down in a matter of weeks—sometimes just days—under composting or natural conditions. Even if it ends up in landfill, it doesn’t pollute water sources or release harmful microplastics.

  • 3) High Recycling Rates

Unlike plastic, paper is easily accepted by local recycling schemes. UK households and businesses recycle more than 70% of paper waste, compared to a tiny fraction of flexible plastics.

  • 4) Supports a Circular Economy

Paper is one of the few materials that fits naturally into a closed-loop economy. It comes from renewable forestry, can be recycled multiple times, and degrades without leaving harmful residue.

  • 5) The CSR & Brand Value

Environmental sustainability is no longer a niche issue—it’s central to how customers, suppliers, and investors evaluate companies. By switching from plastic to paper sacks, you signal:

  • Environmental responsibility
  • Alignment with regulatory trends
  • Support for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • Proactive compliance with plastic taxes and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws

For example, one of our clients in the food manufacturing sector recently transitioned to kraft paper sacks and featured their switch prominently in their CSR report—resulting in stronger B2B relationships and increased retailer interest.

Performance Without Compromise To Paper Sacks

You might be wondering: does paper work as well as plastic? The answer is yes—and often better.

Our paper sacks are:

  • Tear-resistant
  • Moisture-resistant (with optional liners or coatings)
  • Stackable and pallet-friendly
  • Compatible with existing filling lines
  • Compliant with food-grade and industrial standards

We tailor every solution to your specific sector and product—be it flour, birdseed, feed, or charcoal.

It’s Easier Than You Think

At Peter Marsh Group, we make the transition to paper straightforward with our simple 4-step process:

1. Assessment: We analyse your current plastic use and recommend suitable paper options.

2. Sampling: We provide samples for testing on your filling line.

3. Design: We help create branded sacks with your artwork and sustainability messaging.

4. Production: We manufacture and deliver your new sacks, supporting you through integration.

No delays. No waste. Just progress.

Ready to Make a Real Impact?

If you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint while enhancing your brand value, paper packaging is the right move—and Peter Marsh Group is the right partner.

Get in touch today with our Business Development Team for a sustainability consultation and free packaging samples.

Visit www.petermarsh.co.uk or call us directly to take the next step.

Make the switch to paper. Make the difference that matters.