When it comes to environmentally friendly packaging trends, there are a lot of great possibilities in the future. From Compostable or biodegradable to plant-based, there are many different types. Here are a few of the hottest trends in eco-friendly packaging for the next decade. When you’ve got past the glamour and glitz of the latest packaging designs, you’ll be informed of the most recent environmentally friendly developments in packaging.
Compostable or biodegradable packaging
Compostable or biodegradable packaging may be the greenest alternative to traditional plastics. These materials are made to break down under the right composting conditions. In fact, over the past five years, search interest in the term “compostable” has increased by 187%. And spirits company Bacardi has announced that it will release its first compostable bottle in October 2020. But what exactly is “compostable?”
The new tax on plastics is one of the key drivers behind this trend. Ultimately, this tax aims to curb the use of plastics. Using compostable or biodegradable packaging is an environmentally-friendly way to protect the environment and your brand image. Moreover, reusable packaging is attractive and customizable, making it an excellent option for branding and marketing. And the growth of mono-material packages is expected to continue into 2022.
One study revealed that consumers are willing to make compromises to reduce their environmental impact. For instance, 81% of respondents said that sustainable packaging materials must provide equal or better protection to non-sustainable options. This figure jumped to 68% in 2021, suggesting that consumers are willing to accept some compromises in exchange for a more positive end-of-life story. Further, sustainable packaging is becoming more affordable.
Flexible packaging
In terms of recycling, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, steel cans, and glass bottles have the highest rates. Using recyclable materials can reduce the size of landfills, conserve natural resources, and save consumers money. According to a market intelligence company Future Market Insights report, businesses will shift from plastic packaging to biodegradable or recycled products in 2022. This will allow businesses to reduce their carbon footprint by investing in biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions.
Another trend in sustainable packaging is the rise of flexible packaging. Manufacturers will use less energy and water when using this type of packaging, as it is not rigid material. Flexible packaging can also be customized for specific products, and consumers will appreciate the ability to reuse their packaging. For example, some flexible pouches are designed to be resealed and stored again, saving energy and resources during the manufacturing process.
Another trend in sustainable packaging is returnable containers. Designed to reduce a company’s carbon footprint, these products are sold in reusable containers that consumers can refill at a refilling station. This concept will also benefit companies with brick and mortar stores, encouraging customers to visit their stores instead of throwaway containers. Businesses like The Body Shop have embraced this style at their retail stores.
Plant-based packaging
Reusable and recyclable packaging is a key element of modern business models, and some companies are embracing this trend by introducing reusable packaging programs and refill businesses. Customers can return products to a refilling facility and receive them in new packaging. Another 3Rs concept is returnability, and some companies and entities have created incentives to encourage consumers to return their products. For example, the Good Plastics Company makes recycled plastic sheets, and Nzambi Matee makes building materials out of plastic. In short, 2022 will see huge growth in plastic alternatives.
As a business owner, it’s crucial to understand the impact of your packaging on the environment and how you can influence that with your packaging. A recent survey revealed that seventy-four percent of consumers would pay more for products packaged in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. These statistics suggest that sustainable packaging could become the deciding factor in a customer’s decision to buy a product, so it’s vital to get it right. Moreover, these trends are likely to impact the packaging industry in the coming years.
The next big step in packaging sustainability is the focus on renewable energy and recycling. As more consumers become environmentally conscious, so should brands. Recycled and sustainable packaging is a key part of any business strategy. These factors should drive the future of smart packaging. According to the report from Future Market Insights, the trend of sustainable packaging is the most significant driver of smart packaging growth. In addition to renewable energy and recycling, it will also affect the way consumers purchase products.
