Amazon rolls out new recyclable paper envelope across Europe

Amazon has introduced a new recyclable, paper-padded envelope across Europe.

Amazon has introduced a new recyclable paper-padded envelope across Europe, developed in partnership with Mondi. This packaging is designed to be lightweight, shock-resistant, and fully recyclable at home, addressing customer demand for eco-friendly solutions.

The new envelope, which replaces the previous plastic bubble-lined version, features a paper-based lining that protects deliveries while eliminating the need for plastic. It is optimised for flexibility, making it easier to pack while reducing wasted space and additional padding materials like recyclable paper dunnage.

The outer layer is made from specially engineered lightweight paper, while the inner corrugated lining offers durability and protection despite its thin profile. This design ensures that products remain secure during transit and arrive undamaged.

In addition to reducing packaging by an average of 44g per shipment, the new envelopes allow more parcels to fit in each delivery vehicle, which helps lower the number of trips required. This packaging change supports Amazon’s broader sustainability goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2040.

Thais Blumer, European Head of Sustainable Packaging for Amazon, said: Amazon stopped using traditional bubble-wrap padded envelopes in Europe several years ago, which presented a challenge to develop light, flexible and fully recyclable paper packaging that provides the same protection. Achieving both low weight and maximum protection with a 100% recyclable paper envelope was not an easy task, but these envelopes are easy to pack, simple for customers to recycle at home, and enable damage-free deliveries.

In November 2023, Amazon announced that all delivery packaging—encompassing boxes, bags, and envelopes—for European shipments is now 100% recyclable.