Environmental consequences must be considered throughout the package life cycle, and detrimental effects on human health and the environment must be minimised. Reduced overall packaging size and weight, as well as shipping in appropriately sized boxes, should be at the heart of a sustainable packaging strategy, combined with the use of environmentally friendly materials. Sustainable packaging innovations can also improve supply chain efficiency.
New Customer Expectations in 2022
Companies that engage in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) are perceived to be ahead of the curve, with 62 percent prepared to pay more for ecologically friendly packaging items according to a recent survey by IFOP in March 2021).
Although pricing is still the most important factor for customers, the environment is tied for second place with the primary function of packaging, namely its functionality! This emphasises the significance of this factor for customers.
Customers’ Needs Are Growing
Consumers are getting increasingly concerned about the environment. They demand that businesses provide sustainable solutions that reduce waste and carbon emissions. In their daily shopping habits, 42% of respondents stated packaging created from recycled or sustainable materials was critical (Globalwebindex 2019).
Furthermore, policymakers, non-governmental organisations, and consumers are putting pressure on businesses to develop long-term solutions to resource depletion and climate change.
According to a McKinsey & Company survey conducted in October 2020, 55% of respondents are ‘very’ or ‘very worried’ about the environmental impact of product packaging. Sixty to seventy percent of customers across all end-use groups stated they would pay more for sustainable packaging; 52 percent said they would buy more products with sustainable packaging if they didn’t cost more than traditionally packaged products.
Eco-Friendly Contract Packaging Processes
It is not enough to just design and use environmentally friendly packaging. Its end of life must also be considered if it is to be totally sustainable. This is why manufacturers and packing companies must consider the recyclability of their products.
Over ten years ago, Nespresso began recycling in the United Kingdom. Customers can have their spent coffee capsules collected, with the coffee grounds and aluminium separated for reuse. This is just one example of sustainable packaging.
When packaging can be collected, processed, and returned to use as raw materials or items, it is considered recyclable. Packaging’s recyclability is determined by its nature and composition.
Contract Packing with Excel
We are a UK-based contract packing company providing fast, sustainable and efficient packaging solutions for your business. If you need a reliable contract packing company, get in touch with us today.
