Top Sustainability Tests for Packaging: Ensuring Performance Meets Purpose

Today, packaging isn’t just about protection- it’s about responsibility. As more companies set ambitious sustainability goals, packaging plays a central role in meeting environmental targets while still ensuring safety, compliance, and performance.

The challenge? Not all “green” packaging stands up to real-world conditions. That’s why sustainability testing is critical. These tests validate whether materials are truly recyclable, compostable, or reusable, while also confirming that they can withstand the rigors of transit.

Why Sustainability Testing Matters

• Regulatory Compliance: Governments and industry bodies are introducing stricter packaging mandates.

• Retailer & Consumer Demands: Large retailers and eco-conscious consumers expect sustainable solutions.

• Risk Reduction: A sustainable package that fails in transit causes waste, added costs, and reputational damage.

• Credibility: Backing sustainability claims with third-party testing prevents accusations of “greenwashing.”

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Key Sustainability Tests for Packaging

At Gaynes, we see four categories of testing as critical for sustainability validation:

1. Recyclability Testing

Confirms whether materials can be processed through standard recycling streams.

• Assess fiber recovery in paper-based packaging.

• Validate plastics against recycling standards (e.g., PET, HDPE).

• Ensure inks, adhesives, and coatings don’t hinder recyclability.

2. Compostability & Biodegradability Testing

Validates whether materials safely break down in industrial or home composting environments.

• Measures disintegration time and residue.

• Assesses impact on soil quality.

• Confirms no harmful byproducts remain.

3. Material Durability in Transit

Eco-friendly doesn’t mean fragile. Transit simulation tests verify whether lightweight or recyclable materials still protect products effectively.

• Drop, vibration, and compression tests (ISTA/ASTM).

• Humidity and temperature testing for fiber-based packaging.

• Case studies showing cost savings by reducing damage rates.

4. Life Cycle & Environmental Impact Analysis

Goes beyond lab performance to evaluate the package’s full footprint.

• Energy and water use in material sourcing.

• Emissions from transport and disposal.

• Comparison of alternative materials (e.g., paper vs. plastic vs. bio-based).

Industries Leading the Way

• Food & Beverage: Compostable trays, recyclable fiber-based bottles.

• E-Commerce & Retail: Lightweight mailers, minimal void fill.

• Pharmaceuticals: Paper-based blister packs, cold chain recyclable solutions.

Each industry faces unique compliance requirements, but all benefit from testing that balances sustainability with performance.

The Gaynes Labs Approach to Sustainable Packaging Testing

With over 65 years of expertise, Gaynes Testing Lab helps brands validate sustainable packaging without compromising protection. Our accredited lab combines:

• ISTA and ASTM-compliant transit simulation.

• Specialized recyclability and compostability assessments.

• Clear, actionable reporting for compliance and claims validation.

Sustainability isn’t just a brand promise - it’s a measurable standard. By testing packaging for recyclability, compostability, durability, and life cycle impact, companies can confidently deliver packaging that performs as well for the planet as it does for the product.

Ready to validate your sustainable packaging? Contact Gaynes Labs to discuss the right testing protocols for your materials.