Paper-based products are composed of renewable and recyclable materials that can be easily recycled – from cardboard boxes to shipping sacks, they represent some of the highest-recycled packaging. Furthermore, these products help support local forests and economies through sustainable forestry practices.
Participants engaged in a qualitative study to explore their opinions and expectations regarding sustainable packaging before evaluating two packages comprising current packaging material and one prototype package designed for biscuits and meat products.
Better for the environment
Paper-based sustainable packaging is made of renewable resources that can be easily recycled multiple times. It is a perfect option for brands to promote their eco-friendly credentials while providing increased brand visibility through product messaging. As consumers demand sustainable options from retailers, paper-based sustainable packaging continues to gain in popularity.
Recent consumer surveys revealed that consumers prefer paper over plastic when buying food, with 63% correctly identifying plastic as the least recyclable material. It has spurred companies to revamp their packaging techniques to reduce environmental impacts. From primary components like boxes to secondary packaging elements and even fill material void fill, companies are making substantial adjustments that reduce the environmental impacts of packaging processes.
In this research phase, participants were invited to evaluate paper-based packages created based on their suggestions in Stage 1. Their opinions regarding the design and material of these prototype packages were then categorised.
Research also indicates that one of the critical aspects of sustainable packaging design is appearance. Participants had mixed views about prototypes; many found them innovative and different; however, some participants felt that they did not meet their primary purpose of protecting biscuits or meat products inside, one reason being they looked too fragile on shelves.
Recyclable
Paper-based sustainable packaging is an eco-friendly, cost-efficient solution to transporting and protecting various products. From boxes that arrive at our homes to grocery bags, paper is produced using renewable resources like recycled fibre or trees that have been replanted, ensuring an ongoing supply. Furthermore, paper recycling ranks highest, making it an excellent option for sustainable packaging solutions.
Consumers can recycle paper through curbside collection or reuse it as cardboard or gift wrap. Many pulp and paper companies have demonstrated leadership in responsible forest management, clean manufacturing and recycled content production, resulting in beautiful and useful paper.
This study employed qualitative research methods and focus groups to gain insight into consumers’ opinions and expectations about sustainable paper-based packaging materials. Participants were first asked to evaluate two currently available packages – one for biscuits and another for meat – before being shown new paper prototype packages designed based on their evaluations. They were asked to open, manipulate, and compare these with existing packages.
Participants generally favoured paper-based packaging over plastic and polystyrene alternatives regarding sustainability. They were willing to pay an additional premium for eco-friendly packages, suggesting governments offer incentives or tax non-sustainable materials accordingly.
Biodegradable
Consumers are demanding packaging with reduced environmental impacts as they become more eco-conscious. Businesses have responded by reconsidering their packaging methods and processes – paper-based sustainable packaging is one way to demonstrate this commitment while showing your customers that you care about environmental sustainability.
This study explored consumer opinions of paper-based sustainable packaging materials through focus group sessions. Participants evaluated five new paper-based prototype packages for two products (biscuits and meat). Furthermore, participants discussed their expectations regarding sustainable packaging materials – appearance, material characteristics/feel, functionality/ethics qualities, and emotional draw.
Participants were also asked about their willingness to pay more for environmentally-friendly packaging. Most indicated they would be willing to pay 10-15 pence more for one made with recycled paper and preferred designs that combined functionality and design features, such as logos or illustrations.
Lightweight
Paper packaging offers an eco-friendly and cost-efficient option for many products. From boxes that arrive on our doorsteps to bags carrying our groceries, paper is a practical and sustainable choice that makes our lives easier – lightweight enough for transport and storage purposes while offering cost savings over other alternatives. When combined with plastic liners, paper can even become leakproof containers capable of safely holding liquids.
Participants were then asked to evaluate new paper-based prototype packages designed using their suggestions from Stage 1. Questions included the appearance, material characteristics and feel functionality, and price point/intent of purchase for these packages.
Focus group discussions centred around two central topics: price and quality. While participants valued sustainable packaging, they did not want to pay more than their traditional alternatives.
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