Sustainable Packaging, Smarter Future!

At Paper Tubes Co., we’ll help you select the most sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring top-notch quality, aesthetics, and functionality without compromise.

Reimagined, Reused & Recycled!

We use FSC mix paper for all our custom tubes, while our ready-made stock tubes are crafted from FSC 100% recycled paper. We offer custom packaging made with FSC 100% recycled paper upon request. Not all specialty papers have FSC certifications and are made with virgin pulp. The choice you make depends on your needs and priorities. The most sustainable option we have is the white uncoated or kraft FSC 100% recycled paper that is varnished after printing.

Soy-Based Inks

We use soy-based inks for all our offset printing processes, offering a more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based inks. They deliver the same accuracy and vibrancy while being more eco-friendly.

Recycled Packaging for a Greener Future!

We’ve conducted third-party lab testing on both laminated and unlaminated tubes, including those with paper and film-based liners. All passed reliability testing which is the first step in recyclability. According to the lab, packaging made solely from paper materials (without plastic liners or laminates) can be labeled as recyclable. Packaging containing composite materials requires specialized facilities for proper recycling handling.

Packaging Rooted in Nature!

Paper is made from tree pulp, which comes from plants. While some customers are concerned about trees being cut down for paper, we use pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests (FSC certified). For those who require liners, they are typically made from PE plastic. However, some customers seek barrier properties without plastic. For them, we offer alternatives such as bagasse paper (made from sugarcane pulp) and PLA (a bioplastic made from corn starch).

Strong, Sustainable, and Plastic-Free

For secondary packaging that does not have shelf-life concerns, plastic-free options work well, especially with the natural finish of uncoated paper. If you prefer a soft-touch or matte-coated finish for a luxurious look, we can use biodegradable laminates (less plastic) or adjust them based on your specific priorities.

Greener Choices, Lasting Impact

What are your main areas of focus?

Eliminate plastic usage.
Utilize recycled materials.
Ensure all materials are recyclable.

What are your specific needs?

Determine if it is primary or secondary packaging.
Identify whether it will be sold in stores or shipped.
Assess if the product requires special protection.

Have a material in mind?

Require non-tree-based paper?
Need plant-based liners?
Evaluate its impact on overall sustainability.

What environmentally friendly options do you have?

To offer options, we must first understand your requirements and priorities.
The most sustainable choice is a tube or box made from FSC 100% recycled paper, printed with soy inks, without inner lining or outer lamination. Pure paper—simple and effective.

Are the tubes/boxes biodegradable?

While we haven’t conducted official compostability testing, we have consulted accredited laboratories and material scientists. Compostability testing is a lengthy, expensive process—typically taking around eight months and costing $20,000.
Experts indicate that results may not always be conclusive or favorable. One challenge is that tubes have a thick, spiral-wrapped core, which may not break down fully within the required timeframe. Since our tubes are plastic-free and contain minimal additives, they will naturally decompose over time, qualifying as biodegradable. However, without official testing, we cannot confirm whether they meet compostability certification criteria. Experts suggest that cutting tubes into smaller pieces before composting could enhance decomposition, but this responsibility falls on the consumer. As a result, we cannot make formal compostability claims. That said, we are committed to minimizing the environmental impact of our packaging. If you wish to pursue compostability testing, we are happy to collaborate and support your efforts. Our goal remains the same—to provide sustainable packaging solutions with the smallest ecological footprint possible.

What does FSC-certified paper mean?

According to FSC.org, the FSC label is the most trusted mark for sustainable forestry. FSC manages forests for paper production, ensuring wood pulp sources meet strict environmental standards. Their goals include biodiversity preservation, zero deforestation, and fair wages. This certification guarantees responsible sourcing, making FSC-labeled paper a sustainable choice for eco-conscious businesses and consumers.

What are the minimum order quantities for sustainable options like 100% recycled paper?

Most of our products are made using FSC-certified materials. For custom orders, our minimum quantity for FSC-certified 100% recycled paper is only 1000 pcs.

Do finishes like foil stamping and spot UV impact recyclability?

Spot UV is a clear gloss varnish applied to selected areas of the artwork, enhancing its visibility. It is eco-friendly, as UV light cures it without releasing harmful chemicals or solvents. Foil stamping is also environmentally friendly, using minimal energy, being dry and solvent-free, and making the majority of foil recyclable. Both processes offer sustainable options while maintaining high-quality finishes.