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Sustainable Packaging

Alternative solutions for packaging including biobased or recycled materials, increase the reuse of packaging, while minimizing the impact for example by reducing the amount and impact of packaging used.

VET: How can you make packaging that creates less waste?

HEI: How can you change your logistics in terms of procurement or packaging processes?


Case Studies

Adidas
Adidas has integrated biobased materials into its footwear packaging, using plant-based plastics and paper derived from agricultural waste. These materials are designed to be biodegradable, allowing them to decompose naturally and return to the earth without leaving harmful residues. This initiative is part of Adidas’ broader “End Plastic Waste” campaign, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a circular economy. Through these sustainable practices, Adidas demonstrates how the fashion and footwear industries can reduce their environmental impact.
Read more about Adidas’ sustainability efforts

Lush Cosmetics
Lush Cosmetics is known for its commitment to sustainable packaging. The brand uses recycled materials for its packaging and offers a “naked” line of products that are sold without packaging. Lush’s approach minimizes waste and reduces the brand’s overall environmental footprint.
Read more about Lush’s “naked” packaging

Puma
PUMA introduced the Clever Little Bag as a multi-functional and reusable packaging solution, replacing traditional shoeboxes. The design features a minimal cardboard tray and a reusable fabric bag made from recycled materials. This innovative approach reduces cardboard use by 65% and encourages consumers to reuse the fabric bag, significantly lowering the environmental impact of packaging. PUMA’s Clever Little Bag showcases how packaging can be both practical and sustainable, adding value while promoting environmental responsibility.
Read more about Puma’s Clever Little Bag

References

  • Arenhart, J., Assis, L. N., & Dias, A. G. (2021). Sustainable Packaging in the Fashion Industry: A Review of Design and Environmental Considerations. Sustainability, 13(8), 4251.

  • Béhar, Y., & PUMA. (2020). Reimagining the shoebox: The Clever Little Bag. Journal of Sustainable Design, 14(3), 215-223.

  • Brodin, M., Norén, C., Nordqvist, J., & Jönsson, C. (2021). Biobased Packaging: A Review of Environmental Impact and Policy Considerations. Packaging Technology and Science, 34(6), 317-328.

  • Chai, Y., Zhang, L., & Liu, X. (2022). The Environmental Impact of Biobased Packaging: A Comparative Life Cycle Assessment. Journal of Cleaner Production, 350, 131522.

  • Faraca, G., & Astrup, T. (2022). Recycling of Post-Consumer Plastics: Current State and Perspectives. Waste Management, 127, 3-18.

  • Gupta, S., & Sharma, S. (2020). Sustainable packaging: A step towards environmental conservation. Journal of Sustainable Development, 13(5), 112-119.

  • Hopewell, J., Dvorak, R., & Kosior, E. (2021). Reducing Plastic Packaging Waste in the Fashion Industry. Resources, Conservation & Recycling, 173, 105664.

  • Lindh, H., & Olsson, L. (2021). Circular packaging in the fashion industry: Trends and practices. Fashion Studies Journal, 21(3), 45-61.

  • Pauer, E., Wohner, B., Heinrich, V., & Tacker, M. (2021). Sustainable Packaging Design in the Circular Economy: A Comprehensive Framework. Sustainability, 13(8), 4349.

  • Ritch, E., & Brindley, L. (2022). Fashion, Packaging, and Sustainability: Creating Value and Reducing Environmental Impact. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management.

  • Shen, L., Worrell, E., & Patel, M. K. (2022). Sustainable Plastics for Packaging: Opportunities and Challenges in a Circular Economy. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 196, 109877.

  • Siracusa, V., Ingrao, C., Lo Giudice, A., Mistretta, M., & Rimini, S. (2021). Environmental Impact of Sustainable Packaging in the Food Industry. Sustainability, 13(11), 6343.

  • Smith, A., & Jones, P. (2021). Biobased materials in the footwear industry: A case study of Adidas’ sustainable packaging. Journal of Sustainable Product Design, 15(4), 321-337.

  • Verghese, K., Lewis, H., & Fitzpatrick, L. (2022). Packaging for Sustainability: Reimagining the Fashion Industry’s Packaging. Journal of Packaging Technology and Research.