Reusable packaging options may be the best solution for cannabis producers

PACK EXPO Las Vegas presents packaging solutions and manufacturing innovations that address complex industry concerns.

In recent years, cannabis producers have been adopting a variety of combinations of recyclable, compostable and biobased resins to create eco-friendly packaging solutions, according to new findings from Global Market Insights (GMI). This trend reflects the industry’s focus on reducing waste, minimizing environmental impact and meeting consumer demand for sustainable packaging alternatives, as revealed in GMI’s report, Cannabis Packaging Market Size — By Type, By Material, By Product, By Application and Forecast, 2025–2034.

These higher costs can result from the need for specialized manufacturing processes, a limited supply of sustainable materials, and the research and development required to ensure packaging meets both environmental standards and regulatory requirements like child resistance, GMI’s study states.

At the same time, several states are proposing extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws and related recyclability statutes, according to the 2025 Sustainable Packaging Trends Report from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC). In fact, GMI reports that cannabis businesses may face increased operational expenses, which could be passed on to consumers, potentially limiting the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions in an industry already sensitive to price competitiveness.

Emerging Opportunity for Cannabis Producers

The cannabis industry isn’t alone in the sustainable packaging arena. Consumer packaged goods companies are using fewer single-use plastics (SUPs) in favor of paperboard and other eco-friendly materials, a trend driven by both regulatory pressure and consumer demand for greener alternatives, according to the 2024 State of the Industry U.S. Packaging Machinery report from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

While the U.S. does not have nationwide SUP regulations, a few states have created rules regarding these packaging materials. These rules often fall under EPR policies, which hold producers accountable. For example, Maine’s 2021 EPR law requires that packaging producers pay for recycling and waste management costs, encouraging the use of more environmentally friendly packaging.

Several cannabis producers researching the implementation of paper packaging are struggling with this option due to the material’s performance limitations and a lack of brand investment in next-generation paper technologies. Material changes, such as shifting from plastic to paper, can significantly impact packaging machinery speed and efficiency. For example, the fact that paper-based packaging often requires more careful handling and can slow down production lines is a critical consideration since it can affect overall output and productivity, according to PMMI’s research report.

Yet, GMI’s research indicates an emerging opportunity for cannabis producers to consider: the potential for innovation in reusable packaging solutions. Cannabis companies that invest in developing durable, reusable packaging options — such as refillable containers or modular packaging designs — can reduce waste and create long-term customer loyalty, says GMI. These solutions offer a sustainable alternative to single-use packaging — and allow businesses to enhance their brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship at the same time.

Packaging materials and sustainability will be leading topics at PACK EXPO Las Vegas, September 29 to October 1, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Now celebrating its 30th year, PACK EXPO Las Vegas is the premier event for the packaging and processing industry.

During this biennial event, produced by PMMI, cannabis producer attendees will find more than 350 relevant industry exhibitors. Beyond the exhibits, PACK EXPO Las Vegas offers more than 100 free educational sessions, specialty pavilions and tours focusing on the key areas of interest to the cannabis industry, such as: Sustainability Central, PACK EXPO Sustainability Tours, the Containers and Materials Pavilion, the Processing Zone and the Reusable Packaging Pavilion.

Register now to discover state-of-the-art innovations. Connect with industry leaders and gain a competitive edge. Visit packexpolasvegas.com to learn more and register. Registration is $30 through September 5, after which the price increases to $130.