Designing for sustainability

Abstract

Packaging for sustainability initiatives can be identified through strategic and operational planning processes, but they are primarily delivered through design. Packaging design is an already complex process that considers many aspects of marketing, packaging function and cost. Designing for sustainability adds further complexity to this process. To integrate these new requirements into the packaging design process efficiently and effectively we propose the use of a packaging sustainability framework. A framework is presented that applies a triple bottom line approach to packaging design based on four design principles: effectiveness (fit for purpose), efficiency (efficient use of materials, energy and water), cyclic material flows (renewable/recyclable materials and minimal waste) and safety (non-polluting and non-toxic). Each principle is outlined, and practical design strategies and case studies are provided to demonstrate their application.