Packaging as we know it's on the way out

When you think of disruptive innovation, what comes to mind?

Usually it’s the big-ticket, high-end examples like AI, Blockchain or Uber.

But what about industries that are more prevalent in our daily lives? Product-based industries like body wash, toothpaste or shampoo? These tend to fly under the radar because we don’t see them as ‘shiny and exciting’ compared to what’s going on in Silicon Valley. But the disruptions within these industries are kind of epic.

And they’re for a good cause.

I do believe the main culprit of pollution and fossil fuel emissions are giant corporations (of which just 100 are responsible for 71% of global greenhouse gas emissions) and NOT everyday consumers. But I still think it’s cool to like, do your bit, or whatever.

Because, well, the alternative is the planet bursting into flames. And I’d like to potentially help in making that not happen. In fact, according to a study by McKinsey, 67% of consumers consider the use of sustainable materials an important purchasing factor.

That’s probably why the packaging industry is on the brink of a huge disruption.

Packaging is an archaic industry. Industrial age methods and out-of-date business models mean it’s time for a switch up. Luckily, with the conjunction of new technology, innovative materials and a demand for sustainability, the future of packaging is around the corner,. And it’s already looking brighter.

Reusable packaging. Concentrated products. Lighter weight materials. These are just some of the innovations spearheading this disruption, which is making packaging more efficient, sustainable and customer-centric.

Here are 3 brands doing cool sh*t in that space:

Bite

Because even eco-warriors need fresh breath. Launched in 2018, Bite started out making hand-pressed toothpaste bits, eliminating the need for plastic packaging. The non-toxic, plastic-free toothpaste is made from science-backed ingredients. Now, 5 years later, the brand has expanded to whitening gel, mouthwash bits, and many other sustainable options for dental care.

Why it’s cool:

Industry giants like Colgate are scrambling to make their same packaging recyclable. But Bite changed the game by creating low-waste toothpaste with no need for the tube at all. The bits come in a glass bottle with refills offered in compostable packaging. Which means users never have to desperately squeeze for the last bit of toothpaste again.

Plus

Just add water shower gel? Hell. Yes. Plus is a packaging FREE concept. No household waste at all. Each small, solid bar comes in a dissolvable, single serve sachet that melts away down the drain while you use the soap inside. From the same minds that made revolutionary pimple patches Starface, launched In 2021, Plus is revolutionising the packaging game.

Why it’s cool:

Swapping out your bottled shower gel for Plus would mean removing carbon emissions from your cleaning process by as much as 80 percent. Plus's manufacturing process is waterless. Everything from the packaging itself to the dye used is safe for you and the planet. AND it clears space in your shower from all those clunky waterlogged bottles.

Ethique

Solid shampoo is not a new concept. But it’s been growing in popularity due to the rise in conscious consumers. And Ethique is leading the way. It has all the same benefits as the brands above. No plastic, travel easy, no spillage, no cluttered shower. Easy to use. Effective. You get the point.

Why it’s cool:

Aside from the reasons listed above, each bar replaces three average bottles of shampoo. Depending on your routine, you might only need to buy a few bars a year. Which reduces your consumption all together.

If you’re a product-based brand, now is the time to look into sustainable packaging. Think about ways you could alter your packaging to reduce plastics and minimize waste. You don’t have to throw out the whole baby with the bathwater. There may be parts of your packaging you can swap out. A start is a start.

Some things to think about:

• Sustainable materials. What could you swap for renewable, biodegradable, or compostable materials?

• Minimalism. Adopt a less-is-more philosophy with your packaging. Consider what’s necessary and can the rest.

• Reusability. Many brands are adopting circular designs to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency. Could you involve packaging that’s easily disassembled for recycling or sent back to you for reuse?

If you're a product-based brand, this is the perfect chance to become a trailblazer in your space. You have a unique opportunity to innovate, disrupt, and create genuine change in the way we think about packaging.

C’mon, it’s only the fate of the planet at stake.

-Sophie, Writer