Sustainable Solutions: Finding the Right Fit for your Gift Card Program
As environmental consciousness continues to grow, companies are increasingly integrating sustainable-cards into their operations. This trend is particularly evident in the gift card industry, where consumers are seeking greener alternatives to traditional plastic cards. Businesses that offer sustainable gift cards not only reduce their environmental impact but also align with the values of today’s eco-conscious customers. We will explore how businesses can select sustainable gift cards that balance environmental responsibility with the practicality and appeal of gifting.
The Growing Demand for Sustainability in the U.S.
Sustainability has become a key factor in consumer behavior. According to NielsenIQ, 78% of U.S. consumers now believe that living a sustainable lifestyle is important, and 89% have adjusted their shopping habits to be more environmentally friendly. This shift in consumer preferences is impacting industries across the board, including the gift card sector. Businesses now prioritize eco-friendly gifts, recognizing their responsibility to the environment.
Eco-Friendly Gift Card Options
To address the environmental concerns associated with traditional gift cards, businesses are now offering several eco-friendly alternatives made from sustainable materials. Here are some of the leading options:
1. Biodegradable Gift Cards:
Biodegradable gift cards are crafted from materials that naturally decompose, reducing their long-term environmental impact. Commonly used materials include plant-based plastics derived from renewable sources such as corn or sugarcane. These sustainable alternatives demonstrate how businesses can integrate eco-friendly practices into everyday products, promoting environmental responsibility.
2. Recycled Plastic Gift Cards:
Some businesses are offering gift cards made from recycled PVC or other repurposed materials. By using recycled plastic, companies reduce the need for new plastic production and help divert waste from landfills. This option combines the durability of traditional gift cards with a commitment to reducing environmental harm.
3. Sustainably Sourced Paper Gift Cards:
Gift cards made from sustainably sourced paper are an excellent alternative to plastic. These cards are typically certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and use eco-friendly inks. Once used, they can be recycled, significantly lowering their environmental footprint compared to their plastic counterparts.
How to Choose Sustainable Gift Cards for Your Business
If your company is committed to offering eco-friendly products, sustainable gift cards should be part of your strategy. Here are some tips for selecting the right options:
1. Look for Sustainability Certifications:
When choosing physical gift cards, it’s essential to verify their sustainable-cards credentials. Look for certifications from respected environmental organizations that ensure eco-friendly production practices. For instance, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification guarantees that the paper used is sustainably sourced and supports responsible forest management. Additionally, certifications like Green Seal provide assurance that specific environmental standards are met during the production process. These labels not only help protect natural resources but also promote environmentally responsible choices.
2. Support Recycling Programs
Consider partnering with gift card suppliers that offer recycling programs for used cards. Many businesses now provide take-back or recycling services, helping to ensure that gift cards are responsibly disposed of after use. Participating in these initiatives not only minimizes waste but also enhances your company’s sustainable-cards efforts.
3.Assess the Full Lifecycle of the Gift Card
Look at the entire lifecycle of the gift card, from production to disposal. Elect for gift cards made from biodegradable or recycled materials and ensure they can be easily recycled or composted after use. Taking a holistic approach ensures that your company reduces its environmental footprint at every stage.
The Future of Sustainable Gift Cards
As consumers become more aware of environmental issues, the demand for sustainable gift cards will continue to rise. Here are some emerging trends in the gift card industry:
1. Innovative Materials
The development of new, eco-friendly materials will play a significant role in the future of sustainable gift cards. Expect innovations in biodegradable materials that further reduce environmental impact.
2. Increased Focus on Circular Economy Practices
More businesses are adopting circular economy principles, where products are designed for reuse, recycling, or repurposing. Gift cards that can be easily recycled or used for other purposes after redemption will likely become more prevalent as companies seek to reduce waste.
3. Consumer Education and Marketing
As the market for sustainable products grows, businesses will need to educate consumers on the benefits of eco-friendly gift cards. Clear labeling, in-store promotions, and marketing campaigns highlighting the environmental advantages of these cards will be crucial for driving adoption.
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern; it’s a mainstream priority for businesses and consumers alike. By offering eco-friendly gift cards, companies can reduce their environmental impact, meet the growing demand for sustainable products, and enhance their brand’s reputation as a leader in environmental responsibility. Whether opting for biodegradable materials, recycled plastics, or sustainably sourced paper, businesses have more choices than ever to support a greener future while still delivering the practicality and appeal that gift cards offer. As the industry continues to evolve, the future of gift cards will likely be more eco-conscious, innovative, and aligned with sustainable values.
About Plasticard – Locktech International
PLI is the largest Closed Loop Gift, Loyalty and Hospitality card manufacturer in North America. PLI has been in business for over 30 years, specializing in end-to-end card marketing solutions including card production, design, packaging, displays, consulting and fulfillment services and capabilities. PLI has three manufacturing facility locations including two in Las Vegas, NV and one in Asheville, NC.
Source
Consumers care about sustainable-cards
Eco-Conscious Consumer Statistics
Recent
Las Vegas, NV – September 17, 2025 – PLI is proud to announce that Stephanie Thompson, VP of Business Development, has been elected to the Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) Board of Directors! The RGCA is the premier organization for the gift card industry, made up of retailers, vendors, and industry experts who are passionate about promoting best practices, driving innovation, and ensuring the long-term success of the gift card space.
17 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 16, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic G&L team. Shawn will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. With more than 18 years of experience in enterprise sales, business development, and corporate marketing, Shawn Howard is a proven leader in driving substantial growth and innovation.
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Las Vegas, NV - September 11, 2025 – What makes a company truly exceptional? At PLI, the answer is simple: our employees. Behind every breakthrough, milestone, and success story is our PLI family—an extraordinary group of individuals who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to work every single day.
12 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Chief Financial Officer Perry Morgan will retire effective November 21, 2025. Morgan has served as CFO since 2021, building a strong finance organization and contributing to the company’s growth and success well beyond the finance function.
10 Sep 2025
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Leeton Lee, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, will retire effective December 31, 2025, after more than four years of service with the company.
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Las Vegas, NV – September 9, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce Tyler Hirashima has been promoted to Marketing Manager still reporting to Mary Parks. Tyler has been with PLI for 1.5 years and has played a key role in producing impactful marketing materials for our Hospitality and G&L teams. His creativity, can-do attitude, and drive have strengthened our communications and brand presence. We look forward to seeing Tyler continue to elevate our marketing efforts in his new role!
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Asheville, NC – September 2, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Phil Traywick will be joining us as Vice President of Sales for HEAT, effective Tuesday, September 2. Phil will report directly to our CEO, Mark McEachen and be based in Asheville, NC.
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Asheville, NC – July 28th, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Matt Pegg joined us as Director of Sales, reporting directly to our VP of Sales for HEAT. Matt brings a strong background in leadership and sales within the hospitality and event sectors. He will be onsite, working closely with the sales team, and operations.
9 Sep 2025
Newsroom
PLI’s Stephanie Thompson Elected to RGCA Board of Directors
Las Vegas, NV – September 17, 2025 – PLI is proud to announce that Stephanie Thompson, VP of Business Development, has been elected to the Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) Board of Directors! The RGCA is the premier organization for the gift card industry, made up of retailers, vendors, and industry experts who are passionate about promoting best practices, driving innovation, and ensuring the long-term success of the gift card space. | 17 Sep 2025
PLI Welcomes Shawn Howard to Strategic G&L Team
Las Vegas, NV – September 16, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce a new addition to the Strategic G&L team. Shawn will report to Mary Parks and will be Director of Strategic Sales. With more than 18 years of experience in enterprise sales, business development, and corporate marketing, Shawn Howard is a proven leader in driving substantial growth and innovation. | 16 Sep 2025
Celebrating Our Greatest Asset: The PLI Family
Las Vegas, NV - September 11, 2025 – What makes a company truly exceptional? At PLI, the answer is simple: our employees. Behind every breakthrough, milestone, and success story is our PLI family—an extraordinary group of individuals who bring passion, creativity, and dedication to work every single day. | 12 Sep 2025
PLI Names New CFO as Perry Morgan Announces Retirement
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Chief Financial Officer Perry Morgan will retire effective November 21, 2025. Morgan has served as CFO since 2021, building a strong finance organization and contributing to the company’s growth and success well beyond the finance function. | 10 Sep 2025
PLI Announces Retirement of Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Leeton Lee
Las Vegas, NV – September 10, 2025 – PLI today announced that Leeton Lee, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, will retire effective December 31, 2025, after more than four years of service with the company. | 10 Sep 2025
PLI Marketing Organizational Announcement
Las Vegas, NV – September 9, 2025 – PLI is excited to announce Tyler Hirashima has been promoted to Marketing Manager still reporting to Mary Parks. Tyler has been with PLI for 1.5 years and has played a key role in producing impactful marketing materials for our Hospitality and G&L teams. His creativity, can-do attitude, and drive have strengthened our communications and brand presence. We look forward to seeing Tyler continue to elevate our marketing efforts in his new role! | 9 Sep 2025
PLI HEAT Organizational Announcement
Asheville, NC – September 2, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Phil Traywick will be joining us as Vice President of Sales for HEAT, effective Tuesday, September 2. Phil will report directly to our CEO, Mark McEachen and be based in Asheville, NC. | 9 Sep 2025
PLI HEAT Organizational Announcement
Asheville, NC – July 28th, 2025 - PLI is excited to announce an important new addition to the HEAT division: Matt Pegg joined us as Director of Sales, reporting directly to our VP of Sales for HEAT. Matt brings a strong background in leadership and sales within the hospitality and event sectors. He will be onsite, working closely with the sales team, and operations. | 9 Sep 2025