Eco-Friendly packaging : sustainability and design

Packaging today must be attractive, convey the right information, protect the content, and now, be eco-friendly. Packaging cannot escape the green trend where every product must include an ecological dimension.

While challenging to implement, especially for food and cleaning product packaging subject to strict regulations, it’s essential to meet consumer expectations for environmental preservation without compromising safety or aesthetics.

Here are some pathways to move towards sustainable packaging.

Focusing on the form

Origami-inspired designs offer formats made from a single material that require nothing else to protect, transport, and provide the necessary information about the product – Source: Pinterest

The first step is to think economically. The main goal of eco-friendly packaging is to minimize material use by optimizing resources like cardboard, plastic, or other materials.

Origami-inspired designs, using a single material and no additional components (labels, glues, fasteners), offer innovative ways to reduce waste. Some self-locking cutting systems even eliminate the need for extra parts, making recycling more straightforward.

Focusing on the material

The Möbius Loop symbol guarantees that the materials used in the packaging are recyclable. Even Coca-Cola is going green with its organic product Life, using certified “Plant Bottle” packaging made from plant-based sources – Source: DR

Advancements in materials provide new ways to meet both ecological and safety requirements.

Recycled cardboard

Recycled cardboard is a staple, requiring less energy to produce while saving trees that are vital to our planet’s health.

Plant-based alternatives

Plants like hemp or flax, which grow quickly, offer an alternative to wood. These fibers require minimal water and energy and are biodegradable.

Recycled and bio-based plastics

Recycling one ton of plastic can save up to 700 kg of crude oil! Additionally, fully biodegradable plastics made from cornstarch or potato starch are increasingly used. However, they must avoid being tied to intensive farming practices or mixed with non-biodegradable materials.

Designing 2-in-1 Packaging

Long-lasting packaging ideas from brands like Amora and Nutella cater to both children and adults with various collector’s models in limited editions that follow certain trends! These products are so well-known that some even refer to specific container shapes as “mustard glass” or “Nutella glass” – Source: DR

Some containers gain a second life, becoming durable objects once the product is consumed. Brands like Amora or Nutella have turned their mustard or spread glasses into collector’s items.

These examples show that successful packaging design can be useful, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally friendly. This approach is ideal for reducing waste while strengthening consumer loyalty to the brand.

P.S.: Find more tips on eco-design and packaging on the Packtory® blog!