The Regulatory Shift: Plastic Bans, Mandates, and the Business Case for Going Compostable

Welcome back to One Less Bag, where this week we discuss the packaging revolution that’s redefining sustainability in commerce—one unboxing at a time. 

We’ve all seen the viral “unboxing” moments on social media—sleek packages, carefully wrapped items, and the brand reveal that comes with a sense of occasion. But what happens to all that packaging after the camera stops rolling? 

For far too long, the answer has been: landfill. 

The Packaging Problem 

In 2024, the U.S. is projected to generate over 82 million tons of packaging waste, with plastics accounting for a staggering portion. E-commerce has supercharged the demand for shipping materials—yet most businesses are still relying on non-recyclable, non-compostable packaging that contributes to a growing global crisis. 

But consumers are waking up. A recent McKinsey study revealed that 60% of global consumers are willing to shift their loyalty to companies that prioritize sustainability, especially in packaging. It’s no longer just about price and speed—it’s about purpose. 

This isn’t just a trend. It’s a shift in expectations. 

The Regulatory Shift: Bans, Mandates, and the Business Case for Going Compostable 

Governments across the world are cracking down on plastic. From city councils to national agencies, legislation is rapidly moving away from tolerance and toward elimination of single-use plastics. 

🌎 Globally: 

• The European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive has banned plastic straws, cutlery, plates, and polystyrene containers. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is also being implemented to hold companies accountable for the full lifecycle of their packaging. 

• India implemented a nationwide ban on single-use plastics in 2022, prohibiting items like plastic wrapping and disposable cutlery. 

• Canada banned the manufacture and import of several single-use plastic items in 2023, including checkout bags and ring carriers. 

  
  

In the United States: 

• California passed SB 54, the country’s most aggressive packaging law to date, requiring 100% of packaging to be recyclable or compostable by 2032. 

• New York, Oregon, New Jersey, Colorado, and Washington have implemented statewide bans on plastic bags and are expanding regulations on other materials like EPS foam and plastic films. 

• The Break Free from Plastic Pollution Act, a federal proposal, is gaining traction and could standardize national bans and enforce producer accountability. 

  
  

And this is just the beginning. The market is quickly moving from voluntary action to compliance-driven urgency. If your packaging doesn’t meet these requirements—you will be left behind.

A New Era for E-Commerce: Compostable Packaging That Performs 

At Plastech, we’re helping businesses transition to zero-plastic, home compostable packaging solutions that meet compliance standards while exceeding customer expectations. 

Whether you’re moving thousands of units a day or wrapping delicate products in protective layers, we offer a full suite of compostable shipping materials: 

• Compostable Bubble Wrap for secure cushioning 

• Pallet Wrap for freight and fulfillment operations 

• Bubble Bags for small and fragile items 

• Custom-Sized Bags in various thicknesses and formats 

The unboxing moment is your brand’s sustainability story.

Our products are not just alternatives—they are certified home compostable, durable, and commercially scalable. 

Why Your Packaging Matters More Than Ever 

Here’s what forward-thinking brands already understand: 

• Packaging = Brand Trust. Customers judge a product not just by what’s inside, but by how it’s delivered. Compostable materials demonstrate accountability—and intention. 

• Switching Is Easier Than You Think. Plastech’s industrial-use materials are plug-and-play. You don’t have to overhaul operations to align with new regulations—you just need better materials. 

• You Can’t Afford Not To. Fines, product bans, and damaged brand reputation are real risks of inaction. Proactive packaging strategies today will save cost, compliance stress, and customer churn tomorrow. 

Ready to Join the Unboxing Revolution? 

At Plastech, we’re proud to work with e-commerce brands, retailers, and manufacturers who understand that packaging is part of the product experience—and part of their sustainability promise. 

We make it easy to align your packaging with your brand values, regulations, and customer expectations. 

✅ Full Brand Customization Available 

Whether you're a startup launching your first product or a global distributor shipping across continents, Plastech offers custom branding options across our entire product line. From compostable mailers printed with your logo, to private-label pallet wrap and bubble bags, we help ensure that your packaging looks as good as it performs. 

Your Brand.

Our Materials. 

Our Cleaner Future.

We support: 

• Custom colors, sizes, and formats 

• Branded messaging or call-to-action print 

• Private-label partnerships and co-branded solutions 

• Bulk pricing and logistical support for enterprise-scale operations 

  
  

🚀 Built for Scale 

With global manufacturing infrastructure and streamlined production systems, Plastech can produce millions of units per week, ensuring consistent quality, reliable lead times, and scalable growth for your business. 

Whether you're shipping 500 orders a week or fulfilling 5 million, we’re ready to grow with you. 

→ Contact us for product samples, private-label opportunities, or to request a full custom packaging quote. 

Let’s make your packaging the reason customers come back—and the reason our planet thrives. 

One less plastic bag, one more step toward the future.