What are the major trends that should shape the future of sustainable packaging? Antalis provides a four-point answer

Antalis, an exhibitor at ALLFORPACK EMBALLAGE PARIS, has published a simple and concise article on its blog that looks at the major trends in environmentally responsible packaging. In the end, the European distributor of paper, packaging solutions and visual communication products identifies four major trends.

1 – New compostable materials

‘As demand for sustainable alternatives increases, innovative solutions are emerging to replace conventional plastic packaging,’ notes Antalis, which lists the most prominent alternative options, from bioplastics to 100% plant-based packaging made from bamboo, algae, mycelium or onion skins. Antalis emphasises, however, that the use of more recycled plastics is ‘also essential for more sustainable production processes, as it reduces waste, energy use and emissions generated by the production of virgin plastic’.

2 – Rethinking packaging design

‘The design of eco-responsible packaging emphasises a new, cleaner aesthetic. It uses as much as possible single materials, simple colours and short messages for the consumer,’ says Antalis, which points out that the difficulties of recycling are still largely due to the use of several materials, which requires difficult (and costly) sorting operations. On this point, Antalis cites data from the World Economic Forum, which states that only 9% of plastic packaging is recycled each year.

3 – Reusable packaging

‘The development of more reusable plastic packaging, which can be collected, cleaned and used several times, can help reduce waste volumes and conserve resources. The systems generally involve a deposit and return system (DRS) to motivate consumers to return the packaging,’ emphasises Antalis, which notes the many projects underway across Europe (Norway, Germany, Lithuania, the United Kingdom, Portugal, etc.). The appeal of these reusable systems will, however, only benefit from increased collaboration between brands and retailers to standardise return processes and improve packaging design.

4 – Smarter packaging

‘Packaging with QR codes and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to track parcels in transit and even monitor the condition of products can significantly increase logistics efficiency,’ notes Antalis. Product tracking, secure delivery, improved quality control: the advantages of this smart packaging are numerous and help companies improve their stock management and reduce the overall carbon footprint of their logistics operations. They can also provide consumers with information about the product and its packaging. Antalis cites the example of the smart codes used by Domino’s Pizza to tell consumers how and where to recycle their cardboard boxes.

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