2015 Sustainable Packaging Trends

Millennials are in the Driver’s Seat and they want Transparency

Sustainable packaging continues to evolve. Other than the fact that the demand by both consumers and corporations alike continues to rise, specific factors are shaping the industry. There is reason to believe that some key trends will be the center of the sustainable packaging industry as we enter 2015.

1) Millennials: The Millennial generation is poised to have the largest impact on the immediate and distant future of sustainable packaging. This generation consists of individuals between the ages of 15 and 35 and easily makes up a third of the world’s population. They have been vocal in their demands of accountability from major corporations. Furthermore, their purchasing habits are heavily influence by businesses that show dedication to positive social and environmental practices.

2) Transparent Recycling Chains: It has to be recyclable. That’s what a recent study commissioned by Tetra Pak found. In fact, 89% of consumers prefer to buy products in packages they know to be recyclable. Consumers are also demanding more transparency in the recycling chain. They need to know the efficiency and effectiveness of recycled materials. Packages need to be labeled so that consumers can easily know how to recycle them.

3) From “Clean to Clear”: This comes back to transparency. Consumers need to see more clarity in labeling. With so many “clean” labels throwing around terms like “natural” and “organic,” consumers are pushing for more universally accepted definitions of these terms. People want to know exactly what they’re buying. Read the full article.