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4 Sustainable Innovations in Packaging Technology Changing the Industry

  • profile By BCI
  • calender 19 January 2023

New packaging technologies are helping brands meet consumer demand for eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective solutions—here’s how.

Customers want sustainability, but let’s be honest—their expectations for quality are higher than ever. These innovations in packaging technology are the answer. New packaging technologies are helping brands meet consumer demand for eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective solutions that also protect their products better than ever before.

How is innovative technology used in packaging?

From automated labeling to smart tagging, technology is a huge part of the packaging process. New innovations in packaging technology have made the process easier, faster, and more cost-effective for companies. In addition, advances in packaging technology make it easier than ever to develop sustainable solutions that meet both environmental and customer demands.

Four innovations in packaging technology changing the future

1. Biodegradable packaging reduces the impact of plastic.

New advances in biodegradable packaging are reducing the impact of plastic on our environment. New technologies, such as oxo-degradable and hydro-degradable materials, are designed to break down faster than traditional plastics.

In addition, these materials are easy to recycle and can be used to create compostable and sustainable packaging solutions.Kellogg’s is one company that has embraced this technology and is using it to create its sustainable packaging.

In 2018, they expanded their commitment to work toward 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging by the end of 2025. As of 2021, they’ve made commendable progress on this promise that 83% of their total global packaging is recyclable through curbside, in-store, or mail-in recycling options.

2. Corrugated packaging makes recycling easier than ever.

The traditional box shape has been revolutionized with the introduction of corrugated packaging. New technologies allow cardboard and paper to be made stronger and more durable than ever before.

This type of packaging not only provides excellent protection for products, but it’s also lightweight, cost-effective, and can be recycled or reused easily. It’s also becoming a popular choice for many companies as an eco-friendly packaging option.

Today, Domino’s uses nearly 100% corrugated cardboard to package its food before it leaves the store. In 2020, the pizza chain increased the recycled content of its pizza boxes from 40% to 72% after joining The Recycling Partnership—a nonprofit that works towards improving the accessibility of local recycling programs and encouraging them to accept pizza boxes into their systems.

3. Packaging automation saves energy and resources.

Advancements in packaging automation have made it possible for businesses to quickly and accurately package products of all shapes and sizes. New technologies, such as smart sensors, help track energy and water use, ensuring machinery doesn’t run longer than necessary, and that product quality is maintained. Automation also helps reduce labor costs, increase production speeds, and create faster turnaround times.

Amazon, which packages an estimated 1.6 million packages per day, is in the midst of developing fully automated packaging systems with newly patented technology. The automation would reduce costs and improve efficiency by reducing the need for manual labor and increasing throughput.

4. 3D printing expands possibilities while minimizing packaging waste.

The emergence of 3D printing has made it possible to create customized packaging solutions with unique shapes and designs. In addition, new 3D printing technologies can be used to produce more intricate patterns, allowing for further personalization of packaging.

3D printing is also an eco-friendly option as it eliminates the need for large amounts of materials, reduces waste, and offers more flexibility in design. Overall, these new innovations in packaging technology are providing businesses with better solutions for protecting their products while meeting customer demands for sustainability.

Upscale cosmetics companies like L’Oréal and Armani use 3D printing to create unique, customized packaging and product designs. The goal is to offer luxurious products with minimal waste and sustainable materials.

Be part of the future of packaging technology.

As sustainability continues to be a top priority for consumers, brands must find ways to meet this demand while maintaining the high quality that customers expect.

Fortunately, new packaging technologies provide eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective solutions that protect products better than ever. If you’re looking for ways to innovate with your packaging, explore how BCI can help.