• Amazon’s new paper-padded envelopes replace bubble-wrap, offering recyclable, plastic-free protection.
• Packaging is lightweight, saving 44g per shipment on average, while maximizing delivery protection.
• Amazon’s sustainable push aims to achieve net-zero carbon operations by 2040, reducing packaging waste by 43% since 2015.

Amazon has introduced its new recyclable, lightweight paper envelopes in the UK, part of its ongoing commitment to reducing packaging waste. Developed in collaboration with Mondi, a packaging industry leader, these envelopes feature a shock-absorbent, paper-based lining that offers protection without plastic.

“Amazon stopped using traditional bubble-wrap padded envelopes in Europe several years ago, which presented a challenge to develop light, flexible, and fully recyclable paper packaging that provides the same protection,” said Thais Blumer, European Head of Sustainable Packaging for Amazon. “Achieving both low weight and maximum protection with a 100% recyclable paper envelope was not an easy task, but these envelopes are easy to pack, simple for customers to recycle at home, and enable damage-free deliveries.”

The envelopes are designed to reduce the environmental impact of deliveries:

• Lightweight structure: Saves 44g per shipment compared to cardboard, reducing overall packaging weight.
• Flexibility: Adapts to contents, minimizing wasted space and eliminating the need for additional padding like dunnage paper.
• Recyclability: Can be recycled at home, unlike previous bubble-wrap options.

“Together with Amazon, we spent several months testing our designs, evaluating various padding options such as honeycomb and embossed bubble paper. Ultimately, open-flute padding proved to be the best solution,” explained Pedro Cuesta, a packaging engineer from Mondi.

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Amazon’s packaging innovation is part of a broader sustainability initiative. Since 2015, Amazon has cut packaging weight per shipment by 43%, avoiding over 3 million metric tons of materials. This reduction also enables more efficient shipping, helping Amazon reduce carbon emissions as it works toward its goal of net-zero carbon operations by 2040.

With more than half of European shipments already using recyclable delivery packaging, Amazon is setting a new standard for eco-friendly eCommerce packaging.