SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING: HOW GREEN IT GROWS

Recent sustainable package launches from brand owners in categories ranging from cleaning products to cosmetics make the point that sustainable packaging programs are here to stay. Looking at sustainable packaging specifically, companies that demonstrate their commitment by taking steps such as lightweighting, eliminating secondary packaging or switching to bioplastics enjoy a differential advantage among consumers. Certainly the food and beverage industries are rife with sustainable packaging examples. WhiteWave Foods Co earlier this year launched its redesigned International Delight non-dairy creamer package, which is made from HDPE. Like their peers in the food business, brands in many other categories are making sustainable packaging a top priority. In the cleaning products category, Method is working diligently to refine its already earth-friendly packaging. A recent project was the Method All Surface Wipes package redesign. Sustainable packaging also is gaining momentum in the cosmetics industry as some of the largest brand owners make it a priority. Minimizing the amount of packaging was another important objective.