New Compostable Packaging: Steps Toward Sustainability

FlipFuel® products are now mailed in new compostable packaging!

As backpackers and outdoor adventurers, the FlipFuel team always keeps “Leave No Trace” principles top of mind. It is a part of our outdoor philosophy, and we want to bring these principles to our products. We are committed to working toward strengthening our sustainability and reducing our impact in our business, too.

As a new outdoor gear company, we see the environment as an important stakeholder, and we know it is extremely important to all of you — our outdoor community — as well. That’s why we are making steps toward sustainability with our new compostable packaging.

What Are Compostable Packaging Materials?

Compostable materials are usually constructed with plant-based fibers, such as corn and sugar cane. Instead of being tossed in the trash bin, such materials can be placed in a home composter or community composting facility. This means the item is added to soil and other organic materials.

Then, the components begin the process of decomposing. Eventually, it will break down into water, CO2 and biomass. This process usually takes around 180 days. Finally, it becomes organic material that can be used by the earth once more. The resulting compost can often be a helpful fertilizer for garden beds.

Benefits of Compostable Packaging

Compostable packaging is designed to break down naturally into nutrient-rich soil within a composting environment. It is a significant departure from traditional packaging, which often ends up in landfills and contributes to environmental degradation.

Compostable packaging has many benefits, including:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Compostable packaging decomposes into organic matter, reducing waste in landfills.

• Resource Efficiency: It often requires less energy and water to produce when compared to traditional plastics and other packaging.

• Promotes Circular Economy: It encourages the recycling of resources. This brings the lifecycle of the product into a full circle. This also often referred to as a circular economy. 

About FlipFuel’s Biodegradable Envelopes for Shipping

Our new padded envelopes are made from polylactic acid (PLA) and a fully biodegradable polymer called polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT).

PLA is a polyester derived from plant starch. It is obtained from sources like corn, cassava, maize, sugarcane, or sugar beet pulp. Through fermentation, the sugar in these renewable materials is converted into lactic acid, which is further processed to create PLA.

Sometimes called a “bioplastic,” PBAT is one of the few polymers that offers both sturdy physical properties and environmental performance. It breaks down completely when buried in soil and leaves no toxic residue behind. Better yet? It only takes six weeks to complete this process.

PLA and PBAT are 100% compostable materials. They are also strong enough to safeguard products and withstand tough weather conditions throughout shipping and delivery. In fact, the mailer is waterproof and will keep your FlipFuel® fuel transfer device and other purchases clean and dry.

Eco-friendly mailer design recap:

• 6x10 sizing
• PLA + PBAT construction
• 100% compostable
• No traditional plastics used
• Bubble cushioning
• Protective from weather
• Resistant to tearing

FlipFuel Shipping Guarantees

While our packaging might have changed, FlipFuel’s customer protection policies remain the same. You’re always protected in the event that a product in your order is damaged during carrier transit. The replacement process is super easy. Learn more about our return and replacement policies here. It’s important to us that you receive your order in its proper condition.

FlipFuel: Sustainable Steps

As always when it comes to sustainability, there is always more that can be done! This is our latest step toward reducing our environmental impact. It is a testament to our continued commitment to sustainability and a move to better align our business with our values — and yours.

Please stay tuned as we continue to reflect on our products and processes and incorporate sustainability in new ways. Have a tip? We’re always open to feedback and ideas. Send us a note on our Contact Us page. We’d love to hear from you!