Sustainable Packaging: Concept, Materials, and Tools for Design

Abstract

Synonyms Circular packaging; Cradle-to-cradle packaging; Eco-effective packaging (Packaging world 2018); Eco-friendly packaging (designs that are reusable or recyclable); Ecological packaging (ESKO 2018); Waste-free packaging (US Chamber of Commerce 2018) Definitions (a) Short. Sustainable packaging is a packaging, which was designed, manufactured, used, and utilized at its end-of-life in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. (b) Extended. Sustainable packaging: • Is beneficial, safe, and healthy for individuals and communities throughout its life cycle • Meets market criteria for performance and cost • Is sourced, manufactured, transported, and recycled using renewable energy • Optimizes the use of renewable or recycled source materials • Is manufactured using clean production technologies and best practices • Is made from materials healthy throughout the life cycle • Is physically designed to optimize materials and energy • Is effectively recovered and utilized in biological and/or industrial closed loop cycles (Definition by "Sustainable Packaging Coalition" (Sustainable Brands 2013))