The role of sustainable packaging in 2020 (part 1 of 2)

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2020/05/12 The role of sustainable packaging in 2020 (part 1 of 2)

The role of sustainable packaging in 2020 [+ examples]

Source from: https://packhelp.com/sustainable-packaging/

Sustainable packaging is becoming a higher priority for both brands and consumers - more now than ever before.
McDonald's announced its packaging will be 100% renewable and recycled by 2025.
Millennials are pushing brands to be more socially and environmentally responsible.
It's clear that the term ‘eco-friendly packaging’ is clearly more than a buzzword.

In fact, implementing eco packaging in your brand’s operations is no longer an option - it’s a necessity.

Many of us were brought up with the phrase 'reduce, reuse, recycle' in our vocabulary. Today, it's important to your business that you reflect these same values. Not only to help the environment, but also increase brand loyalty amongst eco-conscious consumers.
In this article, you’ll see:

What is packaging sustainability and sustainable packaging design?
Examples of eco-friendly packaging solutions
Material technology’s influence on sustainable packaging solutions

Material science and packaging engineering developing at an incredible speed. As a result, more eco friendly packaging options are on the market that can take care of a wide range of products.
There have also been many breakthroughs in plant-based packaging and biodegradable plastic packaging. This also means that it’s getting easier for your brand to reduce its carbon footprint.
Plus, with the public more and more aware of the waste caused by bad packaging, wasteful brands are being named and shamed.
So let’s dive into the world of eco-friendly packaging, and see it’s benefits for your brand. But before we go too deep, what does packaging sustainability actually mean?

What is sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging is packaging that, over time, reduces its environmental footprint.
This can happen in a number of ways:

Ingredients: Using raw 100% recycled or raw materials
Production process: By minimising the production process, supply chain and carbon footprint
Reusability: Creating a circular economy around the packaging, extending its lifecycle and usability.

It’s simple to say that sustainable packaging is entirely about the environment. It also should take into consideration economic and social factors.
For example, plant-based packaging may seem like a viable option. But quite often that means clearing endangered rainforests to grow crops.

Eco packaging needs to consider the economic factor. It needs to be priced competitively over traditional oil-based/single-use packaging options.
So yes, the definitions can get a bit messy at times!

Labelling something ‘eco-friendly’ doesn’t mean that it’s sustainable. Similarly, labelling something as sustainable doesn’t mean that it’s ethical.
But here's what's most important if your brand is considering a change:

Do you own research.
Definitions aren’t always black and white. It pays to ask your packaging manufacturer a number of questions.
The Sustainable Packaging Coalition is a great resource. Here, you can see the certifications of certain brands and products. It's also a great way to further your knowledge of recyclable packaging in general.

There are also other bodies, like the Forest Stewardship Council. They ensure that any wood-based products (like cardboard) are made from sustainably-sourced forests.

Eco-friendly packaging, coupled with sustainable package design, is a potent combination. These characteristics can be a great way to set your brand above your competitors.

What is sustainable packaging design?
Sustainable packaging design is designing product packaging with the main purpose of doing as little harm to the environment as possible.
This can be achieved by using recycled material. You can also do this by designing your packaging with another purpose in mind.
For example, this shopping bag from H&M that transforms into a clothes hanger.

Not only are these bags made from less material than H&M’s traditional plastic bag, but the paper is 80% recycled.
Need a paper bag for your brand made from 80% recycled cardboard? Start designing your own paper bags with handles now!
H&M knows its audience is people between 18 and 35. They know that these people care about the environment.
H&M know their customers appreciate brands with eco-friendly and reusable packaging solutions.
Therefore, sustainable packaging design with reusability in mind increases brand loyalty amongst their audience.

Read below to see some examples of eco-friendly packaging design.
Environmentally friendly packaging examples
Implementing sustainable packaging requires some research. You need to see how it can best complement your packaging design.
Look at the examples below to see several examples of brands that have done exactly that.

Slopes & Town
Slopes and town is a Dutch brand. They sell belts, socks and other accessories. Both their product and packaging bases itself on environmentally friendly materials.
“The box design (size, shape, material) drives reusability and brings out other elements of the Slopes & Town brand to the consumer”,
says founder, Irina.
Featured product: Two-piece kraft product box that fits Royal Mail standard sizing.

Sheyn
Sheyn is a Vienna-based jewellery studio that focuses on simple yet elegant design.
Sheyn have used an Eco mailer box made of 80% recycled material. This takes their unique design onto their packaging. In turn, their customer has a memorable unboxing experience based around eco-friendly packaging.
Featured product: Eco mailer box
Origin x Performance
This UK-based brand incorporated sustainability in every aspect of its sportswear business - down to the last thread in their clothing.

Each garment is shipped in a branded mailing bag. Unlike most bags used by a vast majority of e-commerce brands, Origin X Performance's packaging is fully sustainable. These bags are made from natural, biodegradable ingredients, and are just as durable as plastic ones.
Featured product: Bio Poly Mailers
Monday’s Child
Monday’s Child is a British company, selling young girl's clothing for special occasions.

The packaging that Monday’s Child uses tackles sustainability from the other side. The box doubles as a doll’s house for its young users.
By adding extra value to the packaging, a customer gets more value for money. Reusing the box also extends the life of the packaging.
Featured product: Full-colour mailer box
Biotika
Biotika is a Polish manufacturer of soy candles and scented waxes. The brand stems from the love of nature and goes above and beyond to leave a smaller footprint as possible.

Plain textured cardboard boxes with a minimalist design. Simplicity lets the products do the talking. Neutral and organic colours add to the brand’s image, plus the recycled cardboard packaging itself!

Featured product: Eco mailer box
UAU Project
UAU Project is an art installation showing off the delicacies and beauty of 3D printed art.

The installation tackled sustainability in a unique way. The boxes used to send the exhibition all over Europe doubled as the stage to show off the art itself.

Large shipping boxes designed with the dual-purpose in mind. The transport of the art, as well as displaying it. One product, two problems solved.
Featured product: Eco shipping boxes

Why packaging sustainability is important
There’s no need to go into detail about why sustainable packaging is important. If you’re reading this article, you know it’s crucial.
If you still need convincing, take a look at these tweet directed at Amazon's packaging:

But the push toward packaging sustainability isn’t just from the end consumer.
Large corporations like Unilever Australia have recently put pressure on the Australian government. Unilever has demanded the government do more in the plastic pollution battle.
And if corporations of this size can put the heat on governments, it means:

Consumers want to associate with brands that are environmentally focused
Large corporations are spearheading the initiative to help their public image
Smaller and medium brands will be forced to implement sustainability in their packaging

But packaging sustainability doesn’t mean you have to invest a load of money. Nor does it mean a compromise on form or function.

Read below to see the best eco-friendly packaging materials on the market.

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