Samsung shifts to paper-based and recycled mobile phone packaging

Samsung has transitioned from single-use plastics to paper-based and recycled alternatives for its mobile phone packaging as part of its 2025 sustainability goals. 

The international electronics giant’s Galaxy for the Planet initiative aimed to reduce the environmental impact of its mobile products and operations. 

According to Samsung, it has also advanced landfill waste reduction by implementing Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWTL) practices globally. Ten of its factories have achieved the Platinum designation for ZWTL under the UL Solutions standards. 

“The progress we have made through Galaxy for the Planet reflects years of consistent effort across our teams and partners,” says Tae-Moon Roh, CEO, president, and head of the Device Experience Division at Samsung Electronics.

“Sustainability is central to how we operate and innovate. It informs how we design products, manage resources, and create value beyond our devices.

Legacy packaging materials

Samsung has also achieved its recycled content targets, incorporating recycled plastics from ocean-bound fish nets into its solutions. According to the company, it incorporates 10 types of recycled materials, including plastics, glass, and aluminum, in exterior and interior components. 

All recycled materials used in Galaxy products have undergone third-party verification under ISO 14021, says Samsung. 

While Samsung says it has transitioned away from single-use plastic in its mobile phone packaging, it also explains that in some markets, plastic wrapping and sealing labels remain in place due to “local conditions.” 

As such, the tech company acknowledges that certain “legacy” packaging materials produced before its sustainability initiative may still be in distribution. 

Looking forward 

In its next phase of sustainability goals, Samsung aims to incorporate “at least one recycled material in every module of every mobile product.” 

Roh adds: “As we work toward our 2030 goals, we are expanding our commitments beyond products and operations to address broader environmental impact.”

Meanwhile, it has also set the goal of returning 110% of water consumed in production to the environment. Samsung highlights that, to achieve this, it will pursue the Alliance for Water Stewardship certification. 

The company also aims to conserve the environments equal to the footprint of its mobile operations.