Reflecting on the question, the first thing that came to my mind was how I pack my stickers for my

business. Currently, I utilize plastic for packaging to ensure the protection of my stickers during transit.
Looking back at the question, I realized that while understanding the necessity of protecting my stickers
during transit, I am increasingly aware of the unsustainable nature of using plastics for packaging. I
believe that using plastics for packaging stickers is not sustainable due to the environmental impact
associated with plastic disposal. As discussed at the secondary level, plastic packaging contributes to
pollution throughout its lifecycle. The improper disposal of this packaging (if not recycled) leads to
littering, which can harm ecosystems and human life. Moreover, plastics take hundreds to thousands of
years to degrade in the environment, which could lead to various harms to the environment in the long
run.

As mentioned above, small sticker businesses like mine usually use plastic packaging for preservation and
to ensure the protection of the stickers during transit. Usually, customers prioritize convenience and
product protection rather than considering sustainability when making a purchasing decision. One
rationale that adds up to the idea of using plastic is the transparent nature of plastic enhances the
aesthetic appeal of the packaging and attraction to the customers. The immediate benefits of using
plastic packaging, such as cost-effectiveness and durability, may outweigh the perceived risks of
environmental harm.

In fact, there are several alternatives available to enhance the sustainability of this practice. Rather than
relying on plastic packaging, utilizing materials crafted from recycled paper or cardboard, which are
biodegradable and possess a reduced environmental footprint, could be advantageous. Furthermore,
eco-friendly options such as plant-based plastics already exist, providing a more sustainable alternative.

Despite the availability of sustainable alternatives, I continue to use plastic packaging mainly due to cost
considerations. Investing in new materials and redesigning packaging processes poses challenges for a
small business like mine. Sourcing sustainable materials, such as recycled paper and crafted cardboards,
can also be difficult. Additionally, I opt for plastic packaging because, based on past experiences as both
a seller and a customer, it offers greater durability and reliability in protecting items during long-distance
shipping.

To further enhance the process, beyond the alternatives mentioned above, is to continually improve the
packaging of stickers. One effective approach is to invest in and innovate new materials that offer both
sustainability and functionality. Additionally, achieving sustainability in this context involves investing in
packaging materials and slightly adjusting the selling price of items. By transparently communicating
their sustainability efforts and the environmental impact of various packaging choices, businesses can
empower consumers to make more informed and environmentally conscious purchasing decisions.