Wooden dunnage traditionally used to stablilise cargo stowage is now being replaced by the introduction of synthetic dunnage made from recycled cargo slings. The use of synthetice materials reduces the large amount of dunnage disposal.

These new alternative materials are more durable and can therefore be used many times, unlike wooden dunnage.

Poly board is now used as the preferred alternative to plywood for cargo protection. Poly board is made from recycled material and can itself be recycled.