Both a source of inspiration and an invaluable reference tool, Big Book of Packaging Prototypes provides a visual catalyst for the creation of exciting package designs. The diverse range of carton ...
One of the sad realities of the current state of “green” is that while brands seem willing to put money into efforts with a visible return on investment, such as physical plant or operations improvements (alternative energy, energy efficiency, materials minimization, waste as profit centers), they’re still very slow at making investments in the most cost-effective improvement a company (or individual) can make: education.
This December, I’d like to offer our readers a gift that’s always in style and just the right size, but nonetheless encourages re-gifting. The resources below will help you get a better understanding of sustainability and allow you to pass on what you learn to your colleagues.
Handy tools
The Pulp Tracking Form from the Environmental Paper Network (EPN) offers tools for paper purchasers. This document helps you take a hard look at your supply chain and request information from your suppliers. While you’re there, check out its state-of-the-industry report and other useful articles. www.environmentalpaper.org/tools-for-paper-purchasers.php
Pulpwatch.org has an interactive map to help purchasers identify risk regions associated with the sourcing of pulp and paper from around the world.
Fast-track learning
The Essentials of Sustainable Packaging course is a one-day seminar developed and taught by professionals from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC). This private course lets you jump in with both feet, then hit the ground running. SPC tailors the workshop to the specific needs and objectives of an organization, which can include facilitation of goal-setting, metrics evaluation, and specific packaging analyses. www.sustainablepackaging.org/essentials
MCAD Online Sustainable Design Program Class: Packaging Sustainability
Packaging sustainability is about understanding the whole package, not just making another pretty façade. This online class is intended to let all package design stakeholders learn what the various players in the supply chain do. Marketers, designers, engineers, city planners, lawmakers, a store’s buyers, brand managers, and (of course) consumers all can benefit from having a more holistic understanding of what packaging is about.(Registration for Spring 2012 is now open; classes run Jan. 17 - May 8.) www.mcad.edu/continuing-education/online-art-and-design-courses/packagin...
Self-guided education
To get an idea of how the pieces fit together, start with this webinar: Profiting from Sustainable Packaging Design www.packagedesignmag.com/webinars/2009/profiting-sustainable-packaging-d...
Finally, you can continue your self-education effort with book suggestions from o2-USA/Upper Midwest’s “Knowledge Is Power” campaign (www.o2umw.org/reading.html). Here are some of the works from 2umw.org’s short list: “Design Guidelines for Sustainable Packaging” (www.sustainablepackaging.org/resources/default.aspx), “Packaging Sustainability: Tools, Systems and Strategies for Innovative Package Design” (PackagingSustainability.info), “Sustainable Graphic Design: Tools, Systems and Strategies for Innovative Print Design” (SustainableGraphicDesign.info), and “The New Rules of Green Marketing” (www.greenmarketing.com/blog/comments/why-education-is-key-to-green-marke...).
Wendy Jedlicka, CPP, is principal of Jedlicka Design Ltd. (www.jedlicka.com), a founding faculty member of Minneapolis College of Art and Design’s Sustainable Design Program (www.mcad.edu/sustainable), and contributing editor of the book Packaging Sustainability (PackagingSustainability.info).
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