Sustainable Packaging Strategies for Helsinki Artists

1. Use Recycled and Recyclable Materials

• Opt for boxes made from recycled cardboard, widely available in Helsinki's eco-friendly packaging stores.

• Use recycled paper or biodegradable packing peanuts for cushioning.

• Choose tape and stickers made from paper, not plastic.

2. Innovate with Biodegradable Materials

• Experiment with mycelium (mushroom-based) packaging, an emerging technology that's fully biodegradable.

• Hemp: Sourced from the cannabis plant, hemp is highly biodegradable, resilient, and versatile. However, hemp is still an expensive source for bioplastics and not yet commercially available in its polymerized form.

• Cellulose: Despite being bad for the environment, packing peanuts are actually a pretty good packaging solution, and can do wonders for protecting sensitive and delicate items like art. Entirely plant-based, biodegradable packing peanuts will dissolve in water, making it impossible for them to wind up polluting oceans, lakes, rivers, or waterways.

• Seaweed: Like cellulose, seaweed-based material is highly biodegradable, and a great for short-term packaging, but unstable and unsuitable for food packaging, transport and storage.

3. Reuse and Upcycle

• Establish a system to collect and reuse packaging materials from art supply deliveries.

• Transform waste materials from your studio into unique, artistic packaging elements.

4. Minimize Packaging

• Design your art with transportation in mind, reducing the need for excessive packaging.

• Use precise measurements to create custom-fit packaging, eliminating unnecessary filler materials.

5. Educate Buyers

• Include information about your sustainable packaging choices with each shipment.

• Encourage buyers to reuse or properly recycle the packaging materials.

Helsinki-Specific Resources and Initiatives

1. Local Suppliers

• Partner with Helsinki-based eco-packaging companies like BioBag Finland for biodegradable packaging options tailored to artistic needs. Explore second-hand shops or recycling centers like Kierrätyskeskus for reusable packaging materials.

2. Community Initiatives

• Organize a joint visit to local recycling facilities like Sortti Stations to better understand sustainable material options.

• Collaborate with local environmental groups to source sustainable packaging materials.

3. Research Partnerships

• Engage with Aalto University's sustainable packaging research programs to stay at the forefront of innovations.

• Collaborate with the Helsinki Design District to co-promote sustainable practices in the art and design community.

Overcoming Challenges

1. Cost Considerations

• While some sustainable materials may have a higher upfront cost, consider the long-term benefits, including customer loyalty.

• Bulk purchasing with other association members can help reduce costs.

2. Durability Concerns

• Test your sustainable packaging rigorously to ensure it provides adequate protection.

• Consider combining sustainable materials with minimal use of conventional materials for high-risk areas.

3. Aesthetic Expectations

• View sustainable packaging as an extension of your artistic expression.

• Educate clients about the value and beauty of eco-friendly packaging choices.

Eco-Action

As an eco-friendly artists we have a unique platform to lead by example. Here are some immediate steps you can take:

1. Commit to using at least one sustainable packaging element in your next art shipment.

2. Share your sustainable packaging journey on social media, using hashtags like #HiaaFinland and #Ecoart.

3. Collaborate with fellow artists to bulk-purchase sustainable materials, reducing costs and environmental impact.

4. Reach out to local packaging suppliers to request more eco-friendly options.

5. Include a note about your commitment to sustainability in your packaging, inspiring buyers to join the movement.

Artist spotlight: Veronika Vegesent (website) featuring biodegradable custom-made protective shipping packaging, biodegradable artwork and card, made from recycled cardboard.

🌿Follow Veronika on social media and be part of the discussion on responsible art choices.

🌍 Shape Change and connect with a community of artists who share your passion for ethical art and sustainable design.