Amazon has unveiled a redesigned packaging approach for its Echo, Kindle, and Fire TV devices, emphasizing increased use of recycled materials and reduced environmental impact. The initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals under The Climate Pledge, which aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Key updates include a shift to packaging that contains 30% more recycled fiber content, significantly reducing reliance on virgin, tree-based materials. The revamped designs also use 60% less ink and feature unbleached brown kraft boxes, allowing for increased use of post-consumer recycled materials. According to Amazon, 98% of the materials used in device packaging are wood fiber-based.
The redesign replaces traditional plastic wraps and laminations with water-based coatings to protect packages during shipping. Internally, paper-based wraps now secure devices, making them compatible with paper recycling systems. These changes also align with Amazon’s efforts to decarbonize its transportation network, as compact packaging designs enable higher pallet density, reducing emissions from transport. The company has shifted to non-air modes of shipping, such as ocean freight, which emits 95% less carbon than air transport.
Amazon has also introduced accessibility improvements to its packaging. Select products now include tactile-marked QR codes, enabling blind or low-vision customers to access digital setup guides and product information.
Beyond device packaging, Amazon has made strides in its delivery operations. Since 2015, the company has cut per-shipment packaging weight by 43%, eliminating over 3 million metric tons of packaging waste. In 2023, Amazon removed plastic air pillows from global fulfillment centers, preventing the use of nearly 15 billion plastic pillows annually.
These initiatives reflect Amazon’s commitment to reducing waste and enhancing the sustainability of its packaging and logistics.