DS Smith, a leading international packaging provider, is trialling the world’s very first water-resistant, compostable bird box made from recycled cardboard. The birdhouses are covered in a 100% recyclable, water-resistant coating, so they can survive the outside elements and serve a similar role to conventional bird houses made from timber.

By using cardboard, it means that large quantities of birdboxes can be flat-packed and transported for easy installation on site. The boxes are made from 100% recycled paper and at the end of the box’s life they are compostable.



The cardboard bird boxes are currently in the testing phase and DS Smith has started discussions with national charities, wildlife trusts and councils to explore donating shelters, supporting their mission to protect wildlife and encourage the growth of the UK’s bird population. The FTSE 100 packaging manufacturer will also work closely with local schools as part of its global Community Programme, educating and inspiring future generations about the innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges faced in communities around the world.

Aside from the focus on paper-based packaging, DS Smith has demonstrated many times how creative they can get with cardboard. Its network of over 700 designers are always looking for new ways to show off their design prowess, producing full size cars, pop-up obstacle courses, racing boats and refrigerators – just to name a few.

Greg Dawson, Director of Corporate Affairs at DS Smith said: “With our Community Programme, we are inspiring the next generation of inventors to think outside the box and redefine packaging for a changing world. From cardboard tents for the homeless, to toy trucks for disadvantaged children, DS Smith is always looking for opportunities to work with customers, consumers and charities to create something new and exciting that has a positive impact on the world around us.”