Navico Replaces Plastic with Water-Soluble Packaging

Navico Group has begun using Aquapak’s Hydropol bags for shipping its marine electronics, a decision that reflects growing industry pressure to reduce plastic waste—especially in sectors with direct ties to marine environments. While most polybags are labeled recyclable, many are either incinerated, landfilled, or find their way into oceans, where they can persist for decades.

Hydropol offers a practical alternative. Developed by UK-based Aquapak, the material dissolves in water, is non-toxic to marine life, and fully biodegrades without leaving behind microplastics. It performs like conventional plastic in terms of strength and usability, but if it enters aquatic systems, it breaks down safely—something standard plastics can't claim.

Navico’s shift comes as more manufacturers face scrutiny over the environmental impact of their packaging. The marine industry, in particular, has seen rising expectations from both regulators and customers to minimize materials that could harm waterways.

Hydropol’s Broader Industry Impact

Hydropol is already in commercial use across multiple industries, with applications ranging from garment bags in fashion retail to flushable wipes and molded trays in healthcare and hospitality. Its compatibility with existing packaging equipment makes it an attractive option for companies seeking to integrate sustainability without overhauling their entire production process.

Aquapak’s polymer is based on existing technology used in everyday products like dishwasher tablets and dissolvable medical applications. With enhanced resistance to moisture and improved barrier properties, the material can serve as a standalone film or combine with other packaging layers such as paper or bio-based plastics. It's anti-static and puncture-resistant, making it well-suited for electronics.

Navico’s Vice President of Product Management, Jeremiah Clark, confirmed that sustainability remains a top priority in the company’s long-term product strategy. “Our commitment to sustainability and protecting the natural environment is a high priority for Navico Group. We’re continually exploring innovative solutions to reduce our environmental footprint. That’s why we’ve chosen to use Hydropol bags, a sustainable alternative that is non-toxic to marine life and does not generate harmful microplastics."

This move by Navico signals a broader shift in B2B packaging strategy, where sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable part of product design and logistics planning—particularly in industries that intersect directly with nature.