Published with the support of Package Design Magazine, this is a comprehensive guide to thinking outside the box to create practical, cost-effective, and eco-responsible packaging. With a broad ...
This Granola bar "package" is no more than two thin adhesive-backed sheets holding together 10 individual packs. The sheets are double perforated between each bar for "Rip n' Go" convenience. The package claims the innovation will save 6000 trees per year.
Is this an effective sustainability solution? Is there any evidence that consumers will accept this format easily? What other categories should be doing similar things right now?
Hernán Braberman, partner and design director, Tridimage, Buenos Aires, Argentina
This solution has its sustainability value if you compare it versus the material that a traditional carton would require. However, I believe the overall package image is visually noisy. It would be better to rethink the primary package graphic design along with the holder sheets to achieve a consistent image that would seduce consumers.
Kim Price, manager of environmental business development, Lindenmeyr, Wallingford, CT
Customers are willing to accept anything that works—sustainable or not. The fact that a package can be submitted that includes both smart and effective design AND can reduce its impact upon the environment can only be seen as a win-win for the customer and the planet. As long as proper protection is assured for the product, the application of this design should be a serious consideration for not just for consumer goods but multiple industries. Rip n' Go!
Norma Kwan-Waski, managing partner, John Waski Design llc, Westport, CT
It is definitely a step in the right direction and we should all be thinking about the future and how our industry can affect our environment. Although this Granola bar package indeed has less packaging to save trees, I would ask what other environmental issues will this packaging pose with the type of ink on foil usage. The contamination in our eco system from some of the inks and materials used for printing may be far worse then cutting and replanting trees for sustainability.
The best solution moving forward for truly effective sustainability solution, would be for all industries to work together with environmental scientists to create sustainable and biodegradable materials, whether it is to use soy based ink or improved materials to get the same quality results without sacrificing our planet. There are signs that many consumers are willing to accept this type of "green" format. As the consumer becomes more educated and aware of "green gimmicks," CPG companies will be pushed to innovate and deliver an ideal product for both the consumer and the environment.
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