Custom Packaging Knowledge Centre

6 Eco Benefits of VCI Paper Packaging

Written by SmartShield | Jun 14, 2024 1:00:00 PM

How VCI Paper supports eco goals of Major Industries

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, sustainability has become a top priority across all industries, including aerospace, defense, and general manufacturing.

With increasing pressure from stakeholders and regulatory bodies to reduce environmental impact, companies in these sectors are rethinking their packaging and supply chain strategies to align with sustainability goals.

And the aerospace, defense and general manufacturing sectors (where many of our clients come) are right up there.

When it comes to protecting the high-stakes and high-value equipment for these industries, in storage or in transit, there are lots of sustainable packaging options available. Including specialized metal protection wrapping - known as VCI paper (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor paper) - which we will explore in this blog.

VCI paper is made from Kraft paper and saturated with vapor corrosion inhibitor chemistry - with a 24-month lifespan. Designed to protect metal components in packages and enclosed spaces, it works by slowly releasing a non-toxic corrosion protective compound into the air, so rust doesn’t form like in the image below.

VCI paper - also known as rust preventative paper and corrosion inhibitor paper - offers effective corrosion protection along with 6 significant eco-friendly benefits. 

6 reasons for eco-conscious companies to choose VCI paper packaging

1. It’s biodegradable

One of the most significant environmental benefits of VCI paper is its biodegradability. Unlike traditional packaging materials that can linger in landfills for years, VCI paper breaks down naturally over time, minimizing its impact on the environment.

This makes it a sustainable choice for any eco conscious aerospace or defense company looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

2. It’s recyclable

VCI paper is recyclable, meaning it can be reused or repurposed after its initial use. This reduces the need for new raw materials and helps conserve natural resources.

By incorporating recyclable materials into their packaging solutions, aerospace, general manufacturing and defense companies will be contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste generation.

3. It’s non-toxic

Unlike some corrosion inhibitors that contain harmful chemicals, VCI paper is formulated using non-toxic compounds that pose minimal risk to human health and the environment.

This makes it a safer alternative for packaging sensitive equipment, while also reducing the environmental impact associated with chemical exposure.

4. It’s energy efficient

The production process for VCI paper requires less energy compared to traditional packaging materials such as plastics or metals. T

his lower energy consumption translates to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to overall energy efficiency.

By choosing VCI paper companies are inherently supporting sustainable manufacturing practices while reducing their carbon footprint.

5. It’s lightweight 

VCI paper is lightweight yet durable, offering excellent protection against corrosion without adding unnecessary bulk to packaged items.

Its lightweight design helps reduce transportation costs and fuel consumption, leading to fewer emissions during shipping and logistics. An environmentally friendly choice for any company looking to minimize its carbon footprint throughout the supply chain.

6. It extends a product’s lifespan 

By preventing corrosion and rust formation, VCI paper helps extend the lifespan of the equipment it’s used to protect. Which has the knock on effect of reducing the need for premature replacements and minimizing waste generation.

In turn, this not only conserves valuable resources but also reduces the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposal processes.

Conclusion

As concerns about environmental sustainability continue to grow, aerospace, defense, general manufacturing - and companies across all sectors - are turning to eco-friendly packaging solutions like VCI paper to meet their corrosion protection needs.

With its biodegradability, recyclability, non-toxic formulation, energy efficiency, lightweight design, and ability to extend product lifespan, VCI paper offers a host of environmental benefits.

Companies who choose it not only protect their assets - but also support the protection of the planet for future generations.

Have any questions about how we can help your business with more sustainable packaging?