Introduction:
In a world increasingly defined by conscious consumerism, brands can no longer afford to treat sustainability as a secondary concern. From packaging to marketing to supply chain decisions, every element of your product presentation should reflect your environmental values—and your product labels are no exception.
Whether you’re in the food & beverage, health & beauty, or pet care industry, using sustainable label materials is one of the most visible ways to showcase your commitment to the planet. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about sustainable labeling, including material types, printing methods, and how working with a trusted partner like Leapin’ Lizard Labels can help you deliver an eco-friendly product without sacrificing performance or style.
Today’s consumers expect transparency. They want to know not just what your product is made of, but how it’s made, where it came from, and how it impacts the planet. A recent Nielsen study found that 73% of global consumers would change their consumption habits to reduce environmental impact. Your label is often your first impression—so why not make it a green one?
Sustainable labeling offers benefits across the board:
Sustainable label materials typically fall into three categories: recycled, renewable, and compostable/biodegradable. Each has its pros and considerations.
These labels are made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste. Common types include:
Best For: Dry goods, candles, bath & body products, and boxed foods.
Pros: Conserves resources, reduces landfill waste
Cons: May have slight color variations; not ideal for high-moisture environments
These are made from rapidly renewable materials such as:
Best For: Luxury goods, artisanal products
Pros: Less resource-intensive to grow
Cons: May have limited availability or higher cost per unit
Sustainability doesn’t stop at your label material—your inks and finishes matter, too.
Leapin’ Lizard Labels uses digital printing with Epson presses, which dramatically reduces setup waste, ink usage, and production time—making it an ideal match for short runs and small businesses. Leapin' Lizard Labels is dedicated to sustainability. Discover more about our sustainability initiatives here.
They switched to recycled kraft paper labels with soy-based inks and saw a 30% increase in customer engagement on social media related to sustainability.
By using compostable PLA film on their cold brew bottles and partnering with local compost facilities, they positioned themselves as a truly zero-waste brand.
A small-batch pet treat company using tree-free hemp paper to reflect their rustic, all-natural identity. Their eco-labeling is a key talking point in customer reviews.
At Leapin’ Lizard Labels, we’re more than just printers—we’re your creative and technical collaborators in bringing your sustainable vision to life.
We carry a wide range of eco-friendly substrates for roll labels, cut-to-size, and specialty applications.
Our state-of-the-art Epson digital presses produce brilliant color with minimal waste. No plates. No solvents. Just results.
We don’t just sell labels—we advise you on the right materials for your product, your packaging, and your brand values.
Need sustainable labels yesterday? We offer some of the fastest turn times in the industry—without compromising quality or values.
Perfect for startups, Etsy sellers, and DTC brands testing new SKUs. Our no-minimum policy means you only print what you need.
Here’s how to start your sustainable label journey with us:
👉 Get Started with Sustainable Labels
A: Sometimes, but not always. Cost depends on material type, order size, and finishes. We work with a wide range of price points to help meet your budget.
A: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Recycled materials reduce waste, and renewable fibers require less resource input.
A: Absolutely! We have sustainable solutions for rigid containers and stand-up pouches
Q: Can I use sustainable labels for FDA-regulated products?
A: Yes—but always check your specific compliance requirements.
A: Yes. We use water-based and low-VOC inks, plus digital printing technology that reduces ink and material waste.
Sustainability is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity. Choosing the right label material is one of the simplest, most effective ways to align your product with eco-conscious values while maintaining high performance and visual appeal.
Whether you’re a small business just getting started or an established brand looking to reduce your environmental footprint, Leapin’ Lizard Labels is here to help you create labels that look great, perform beautifully, and reflect what your brand stands for.
Let’s build a better world—one label at a time.