Brands are under more pressure to implement sustainable CPG packaging. Per KW-Ecoplus, 68% of brands have publicly announced their intent to maintain sustainability efforts, while 36% have committed to using sustainable packaging.

Consumers are continually making it clear they support packaging sustainability. Here are some CPG packaging trends you should know in 2023 that could satisfy their desires.

Why Sustainable Packaging Matters

Consumers base purchases on their values. Eco-friendly brands are among the ideals they talk about and share on social media.

Packaging sustainability appeals to the lifestyles of consumers. As KW-Ecoplus reports, a global survey of 80,000 consumers revealed 50% prefer 100% recycled packaging, while 40% want an alternative that's biodegradable.

These results demonstrate why brands should factor in sustainable CPG packaging when planning their sustainability efforts. Keeping up with key trends will help guide you through this process.

Compostable or Biodegradable Containers

Compostable or biodegradable containers are often used in the food and beverage industry. They offer several benefits including reusability and reduced carbon footprint.

These containers are safe and can be used as natural fertilizer for gardening. Available compostable or biodegradable materials include paper, cardboard, glass, and plant-based CPG packaging.

Edible Packaging

Edible packaging is a major breakthrough in the food and beverage industry. This natural CPG packaging is biodegradable and made from plant-based materials.

Edible packaging is often preferred because, when compared to other materials, it lessens the use of plastic. This increases packaging sustainability because it decreases waste and is better for the environment.

Edible packaging alternatives include:

• Water balls (also called Oohoo): They're made of plant-based membranes and used to hold drinking water. They replace conventional plastic bottles, thus reducing container contamination.
• Edible Beer Cups: These are potato-based CPG packaging alternatives baked under pressure and in high heat to increase water resistance and make them more durable. They're a great choice for consuming iced coffee and beer.
• Potato-based Wrappers: They're made of potato starch and can be used as napkins or wrappers. They're compostable and biodegradable.

Minimalist Packaging

Minimalist packaging is exactly how it sounds. It uses the least amount of material necessary to let the product speak for itself. Elements of minimalist packaging include:

• Sustainable packing materials that protect products without taking up too much space.
• Minimalist logos and printing that say only what they need to (i.e., ingredients, allergens, etc.)
• Plenty of white space that declutters the outsides of CPG packaging and allows products to shine.

Textured Packaging

Consumers like to touch packaging that's well-made and feels good in their hands. For instance, the smoothness of a box that houses a luxury product speaks to its quality. This helps make the product and brand more relatable, thus evoking positive emotions.

Conclusion

Packaging sustainability is a crucial part of product development. Reducing the use of materials like plastics can make a huge difference toward reducing the carbon footprint.

The market for sustainable CPG packaging is growing exponentially. Greyb says that in late 2017, its market was valued at $233.82 billion. It's expected to reach $341.72 billion by 2023.

Building an initiative to create packaging sustainability in your brand can result in consumer loyalty and preference. It can also set the stage for other brands to learn from the great work your company is doing.

PKG Brand Design is always at the forefront of new CPG branding and packaging initiatives. Subscribe to our blog for the latest package design industry news!