How Innovative Packaging Designs Are Helping To Reduce Waste

If you work in the packaging industry, then you’ll be aware that there have been huge changes in recent years which have contributed to packaging companies overhauling outdated packaging solutions.  The government and consumers have put pressure on packaging firms to not only reduce the amount of packaging used for a product, but to also use recycled components where possible as well as making sure that the packaging can be reused or recycled after its initial use.  Of course, whilst this has been happening, consumers also want to ensure that their product is sufficiently packaged so that it is not damaged by the time they wish to use it!

Redesign

With the changes in criteria which packaging firms need to meet, designers have really had to think outside the box in order to come up with brand new solutions which are not only environmentally friendly, but also fit for purpose.  They’ve had to cut any unnecessary materials from the packaging so as to reduce waste right from the onset, and in many cases this has helped to reduce the cost of the unit.  Just think about Easter eggs; in the past, chocolate eggs would be wrapped in foil before being encased in a plastic shell which was placed inside a cardboard box.  These days, the eggs are simply covered in foil and then placed inside the cardboard box which features an integrated cardboard base which the egg can sit inside to prevent it from rolling around the box.

Food Wastage

A recent report¹  stated that the UK has managed to reduce food wastage in the supply chain to just 3% - when you compare this to Russia whose levels are at 40%, you can see that the UK has had great success at implementing successful changes.  Food wastage is common and previously poor packaging may have contributed to high levels of waste, but this seems be being bought under control by some innovative packaging designers.

Celebrations

The packaging industry is one of the main industries which has had to make significant changes in recent years in response to public demand, and so far, the changes have been extremely positive.  However, no industry should remain complacent, and packaging designers should continue to come up with new designs and ideas which will help to continue to transport the way we see packaging in years to come.

If you require any help with packaging for your product or if you require advice on UK packaging legislation, please feel free to visit the Nicklin website.  

Source ¹: http://www.packagingeurope.com/