Packaging often raises many questions and is sometimes misleadingly presented as environmentally friendly. To navigate this maze of information, I decided to take the Ecodesign micro-credential at the University of Antwerp, led by Karine Van Doorselaer. Discover the basic principles of eco-design and how they can contribute to more sustainable packaging solutions.
DESIGN FOR REUSE
Durability: The packaging should be designed to be used multiple times without wearing out quickly. Materials such as sturdy plastic, glass, metal or durable textiles are more suitable than materials that are easily damaged.
Hygiene: The packaging must be easy to clean between uses by different consumers or for different products. This means that the material must be able to withstand cleaning with warm water, soap or in the dishwasher.
Safety: The packaging must not release harmful substances to the contents and must be suitable for food or beverage storage where applicable. The material must also be safe for repeated use, without releasing toxic substances.
Functionality: The packaging must be practical to use. This means that it must be suitable for the intended product (for example, leak-proof for liquids), easy to open and close, and possibly labeled to indicate the contents and expiry date.
Environmental friendliness: Ideally, the packaging should contribute to a reduction of waste and environmental impact. This could mean that it is made from recycled materials, is recyclable at the end of its life, or is biodegradable.
Economic feasibility: The costs of producing, cleaning and distributing reusable packaging must outweigh the benefits of reduced waste and environmental damage.
DESIGNED FOR RECYCLING
Packaging should be designed so that it can be easily recycled.
The use of monomaterials (one type of material) is encouraged because this simplifies the recycling process. Monomaterials make the separation and processing of waste more efficient and effective.
Reducing the use of difficult-to-recycle materials such as mixed plastics or materials with coatings.
Selecting materials that will be effectively collected and recycled
USE OF RECYCLED MATERIALS
Packaging must contain a certain percentage of recycled material to reduce the demand for virgin plastic.
Some regulations set minimum requirements for the percentage of recycled material in new packaging.
Check and check whether the use of recyclate does not pose any environmental or health risks
WASTE REDUCTION
Companies are encouraged to eliminate unnecessary packaging.
Reducing the weight and volume of packaging to save raw materials and improve transport efficiency.
EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY (EPR)
Manufacturers are responsible for the entire life cycle of their packaging, including collection, sorting, and recycling.
This may include financial contributions or organizational commitments to support recycling programs.
LABELING AND INFORMATION
Packaging should be clearly labeled with information on how to properly recycle it.
Information about the materials used in the packaging must be available.
PROHIBITION OF CERTAIN MATERIALS
Some materials, such as single-use plastics, can be banned or restricted to reduce environmental damage.
Regulations can target specific products such as plastic straws, cutlery, and shopping bags.
COLLECTION AND RECYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE
Governments can support programs and infrastructure for the collection and treatment of packaging waste.
Public-private partnerships can be encouraged to increase recycling rates.
ECO-DESIGN GUIDELINES
Companies can follow guidelines designed to create environmentally friendly packaging.
This may also include promoting the use of biodegradable or compostable materials.
TAX MEASURES AND SUBSIDIES
Some countries may impose taxes on difficult-to-recycle packaging or offer subsidies for the use of recycled materials.
This could also include incentives for companies investing in circular packaging solutions.
By complying with these circular rules, companies in the packaging industry can contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
