Sustainable packaging projected to grow in frequency: study

Some firm numbers are now in place plotting the projected growth of sustainable packaging. According to EL Insights, 37% of consumer products are forecast to have sustainable packaging by 2015. That compares with 27% in 2010.

Steady growth is projected for each year during this period: 29% in 2011, 31% in 2012, 33% in 2013, and 35% in 2014.

EL Insights says the growth will occur in part because of pressure on consumer products companies to emphasize innovation when designing, selecting packaging materials, processing, and considering life cycle logistics for packaging.

However, recent research has determined that although sustainable packaging is a good thing for the environment, it does not necessarily lead to more sales at shelf. Recent research by Perception Research Services finds that green packaging can be a purchase tiebreaker only if the packaging meets all of shoppers’ other essential needs first.