In June 2024, China officially implemented its first mandatory national standard on express packaging, “Limits of Heavy Metals and Specific Substances in Express Packaging.” On the same day, another recommended standard, “Reusable Express Packaging Boxes,” also came into effect. These two new standards will compel logistics and express delivery companies to transition towards green packaging.

At the end of 2023, the National Development and Reform Commission, along with eight other departments, released the “Action Plan for Promoting Green Transformation of Express Packaging.” This plan aims to achieve a basic green transformation of express packaging by the end of 2025. Consequently, the ability to use green packaging will become a key competitive advantage for express delivery companies in the future.

For small and medium-sized logistics companies, implementing green packaging presents a challenge, but it also offers an opportunity to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Here are some feasible action paths suggested by the author:

Assess Current Packaging Solutions: Small and medium-sized companies should first assess their current packaging solutions. This includes understanding the types, quantities, and costs of packaging materials used, and identifying any problems and areas for improvement.

Choose Suitable Green Packaging Materials: Based on product characteristics and requirements, select appropriate green packaging materials, such as biodegradable plastics and recycled paper, to reduce environmental impact.

Optimize Packaging Design: Optimizing packaging design can reduce the amount of packaging materials used and lower costs. Small and medium-sized companies can consider adopting customized packaging solutions, designing personalized packaging based on product characteristics.

The pollution caused by various stages of logistics and express delivery activities is receiving increasing attention. Against this backdrop, the vigorous promotion and practice of green packaging have become a consensus among logistics and express delivery companies. With the development trend of green packaging and technological innovations, it is believed that logistics companies can reduce costs while pursuing environmental protection, thereby contributing to sustainable development.