This paper aims to accurately grasp the economics and environmental impact of different types of buffer packaging materials by sorting out domestic and foreign literature, in order to provide references for the design and application of green and economic buffer packaging materials. Based on the classification of common buffer packaging materials, the economy and environmental impacts of paper buffer packaging materials and plastic buffer packaging materials are evaluated. It is concluded that common buffer packaging materials will cause waste of resources and environmental pollution during processing and use. The price of paper buffer packaging materials is stable due to mature processing technology, and that of plastic buffer packaging is greatly affected by the price of raw materials. As a new type of buffer packaging material, plant fiber-based buffer material is environmentally friendly and can meet the requirements for the mechanical properties of buffer packaging materials. Therefore, promoting the use of this type of material can improve the current situation and the material has development potential and research significance.