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Packaging.411
Solutions for Some of Today's Product Challenges
 
Challenge:
How can stakeholders convey to consumers how important environmental awareness is in their product packaging? What choices come to mind to achieve the "greenest" package?  And what is "green enough?"

 Care For Our Planet
Recycled Symbol
 
Solution:
The first consideration is the choice of material--a stock made with recycled content.  With paperboard, most are using the minimum of 30% recycled content. Available in a variety of higher recycled fiber,  paperboard is a solid choice if it meets other criteria: lead-time, budget, availability.  The paperboard industry has always been at the forefront of sustainable practices and offers very "green" choices. 
 
Green(er) Tip: Need to hold product securely inside your package?  Consider "molded paper" trays which can be used in place of traditional plastic.  This plastic alternative has been around for a little while and is gaining acceptance as an attractive holding device.
Consumer Plastic Package
 
 
Challenge:
Regarding "greenest" materials, is it necessary to eliminate all plastic in a package? Is it even realistic? 
 
 
Solution:
While many people could perceive any plastic in a package as a negative, there have been many advancements in plastics, especially bioplastics, made from renewable, non-petroleum sources such as corn, sugar, and vegetables. Plastic is still a very important component of many packages that cannot always be avoided. 
 
Green(er) Tip:  If your package requires clear visibility of what's inside, consider better plastic choices such as a plastic polymer like HDPE (water bottle material) which can achieve the desired result and is made from 100% post consumer content. That's pretty darn "green".
 
 
 Clear Water Bottles
 
Among the top 10 trends for 2010 is the continuance of "Sustainability".  Keeping up with the constant flow of information can be a daunting task for stakeholders, but necessary when making key decisions with your product and its packaging to achieve best positioning. The past decade has proven that good package design is a smart investment. Now, more than ever, great package design can set you a part. This year, go from good to great.  
We're here to help.
 
Got questions? Send them to
 so we can answer your packaging questions in the next round of Packaging.411

212-481-6070 or visit www.tri-plexpkg.com