8 Practical Ways Businesses Can Go Greener This Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is a time of joy, reunion, and prosperity. However, for many businesses in the food and retail sectors, it is also one of the busiest times of the year, leading to a significant increase in material consumption. As sustainability becomes a core value for modern consumers, businesses have a unique opportunity to lead the way in eco-friendly celebrations.

Holiday Celebrations Often Produce Spikes in Packaging Waste

The festive season traditionally sees a massive surge in waste. According to holiday waste statistics, household waste often increases by about 25% during major holiday periods. This spike is largely driven by gift packaging, festive hampers, and takeaway containers from reunion dinners.

In many regions celebrating Lunar New Year, the demand for single-serve snacks and festive treats leads to a mountain of non-recyclable materials ending up in landfills. For businesses, managing this seasonal surge requires a shift toward materials that are easier to process within a circular economy.

8 Steps Toward a Greener Lunar New Year

1. Rethink How You Pack Hampers and Gifts

Avoid excessive layers of plastic film and metallic ribbons. Instead, use high-quality paperboard boxes that provide a premium look while being fully recyclable. Elegant, minimalist designs often resonate more with modern, eco-conscious recipients.

2. Plan Portions Better to Reduce Food Waste

Food waste is a major environmental issue during the holidays. Businesses in the F&B sector can help by offering flexible portion sizes or “family sets” designed to be finished in one sitting, reducing the need for excess takeaway packaging later.

3. Choose Reusable Décor Instead of Single-Use Ornaments

Instead of buying cheap, disposable plastic decorations every year, invest in high-quality ornaments made from durable materials or paper that can be stored and reused for future cycles.

4. Use Grease-Resistant Paper for Cookies, Pastries, and Snacks

Festive treats like pineapple tarts and cookies are Lunar New Year staples. Using grease-resistant paperboard, such as Foopak Greaseproof and Foopak Bio Natura, ensures that the packaging remains sturdy and clean without the need for additional plastic liners, keeping the presentation premium while staying aligned with sustainable packaging goals.

5. Offer Paper Plates, Bowls, and Cups for Large Gatherings

For large corporate events or catering services, replace plastic disposables with paper-based alternatives. Foopak Bio Natura and other Foopak paperboard products are designed to be biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable (both at home and in industrial facilities), making them an ideal choice for high-volume festive use without compromising performance or presentation.

6. Encourage Proper Waste Sorting During Events

If your business hosts festive gatherings, ensure that clearly labeled bins for paper, glass, and organics are available. Making it easy for guests to sort their waste ensures that recyclable paperboard packaging actually makes it to the recycling facility.

7. Buy From Brands That Are Transparent About Their Materials

Transparency is key to a green supply chain. Partner with suppliers and brands like Foopak that provide clear information about their production processes and material certifications, ensuring your business stays away from harmful “forever chemicals” like PFAS.

8. Make Sustainability Part of the Celebration, Not an Afterthought

Incorporate your green initiatives into your brand’s festive messaging. Share with your customers how your choice of sustainable paperboard packaging contributes to a healthier planet, turning a seasonal celebration into a long-term commitment to the environment.

Partner with Foopak for a Sustainable Festive Season

As the demand for eco-friendly celebrations grows, Foopak is ready to support your business with high-performance paperboard solutions. Whether you are looking for grease-resistant materials for festive treats or sturdy paperboard for premium gift boxes, our products are designed to meet the highest standards of safety and sustainability.

By choosing Foopak, you are opting for materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable (both home and industry). We invite brand owners, converters, and retailers to explore how our paperboard innovations can elevate your festive packaging while reducing your environmental impact.

Together, we can drive the transition toward a more sustainable future, ensuring that our festive traditions protect the planet for generations to come.