By actively recycling, distributors not only reduce their environmental footprint but also contribute to a circular economy that extends product lifecycles. This proactive approach builds trust with customers, supports CSR initiatives and positions promo firms as leaders in sustainability. TABLE 6: Does your company have a sustainable or circular packaging policy (such as recyclable, recycled, reused or compostable, etc.)? Yes No Other Distributors $100M+ 65% 15% 20% Distributors $25M-$100M 89% 11% 0% Distributors $10M-$25M 63% 30% 7% Distributors $3M-$10M 63% 25% 13% Distributors Under $3M 59% 35% 6% Interestingly, fewer distributors overall have a circular packaging policy than participate in a recycling program. Of course, sustainable packaging can lower long-term costs, reduce regulatory risks and align with the sustainability goals of clients. TABLE 7: Roughly what percentage of the products you sold in 2024 were marketed as sustainable? Distributors $100M+ 22% Distributors $25M-$100M 24% Distributors $10M-$25M 24% Distributors $3M-$10M 30% Distributors Under $3M 38% These results are on par with the results of the same question in both the 2024 and 2023 State of Responsibility studies, indicating consistent (but not growing) interest in sustainable products from end users. TABLE 8: Does your company have a sustainable or circular packaging policy (such as recyclable, recycled, reused or compostable, etc.)? Yes Baseline year assessment in progress No Other Distributors $100M+ 63% 5% 16% 16% Distributors $25M-$100M 48% 15% 33% 4% Distributors $10M-$25M 46% 8% 35% 12% Distributors $3M-$10M 44% 0% 50% 6% Distributors Under $3M 18% 6% 71% 6% Nearly two-thirds of PPAI 100 distributors have a carbon reduction plan for tracking and actively reducing emissions across operations, logistics and sourcing. A structured plan helps identify efficiencies, reduce costs and ensure compliance with evolving regulations. 40 • OCTOBER 2025 • PPAI Must Read | The State Of Responsibility 2025
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