Couriers load express packages into a van at a SF Express outlet in Zhoushan. [Photo/VCG]

Some courier companies in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, have started using recyclable packing boxes to help reduce household waste, local media reported on May 24.

The Feng Box, a recyclable packing box provided by SF Express in the city, has a zipper that eliminates the need for packing tape and uses lesser filler than ordinary boxes. The Feng Box is secure, waterproof, insulated, and can be reused more than 40 times.

EMS and JD Logistics, the logistics arm of JD, also launched environmentally-friendly packages.

EMS has provided tape-free packing boxes while JD Logistics has also offered tape-free packing boxes made with reusable materials, which can be reused more than 20 times. If they are damaged, they can still be repaired and reused.

In addition, courier companies in the city have explored ways to simplify express delivery by using electronic express waybills and reducing the use of cardboard.

According to the Zhoushan bureau of the postal service, residents will be encouraged to use eco-friendly wrappers to reduce waste.