Small, deliberate choices in design, material, and sourcing can result in significant environmental benefits while boosting a brand's appeal to conscious consumers. Here, we explore actionable practices to guide brands toward more sustainable packaging strategies.

1. Opt for Local Partnerships to Minimize Emissions

Transportation-related emissions play a significant role in carbon footprints. For instance, road transport accounts for 12% of India's total CO2 emissions. Partnering with local suppliers for your packaging and labelling needs not only reduces the emissions associated with long-haul transportation but also supports the domestic economy and aligns with sustainable goals.

A local supplier also brings expertise in regional environmental regulations and can provide tailored solutions to meet sustainability standards.

2. Design for the Circular Economy

Sustainability in packaging doesn’t stop at the material—it begins with design. To integrate seamlessly into a circular economy, both the packaging and its label should prioritize recyclability. Mismatched materials, such as combining plastic with paper labels, often complicate the recycling process. Monomaterial designs—where the label and package are made of the same material—simplify sorting and increase recycling rates.

For instance, brands like Coca-Cola have led the way by rethinking label design. Their transition to part-shrink sleeve labels in the World Without Waste initiative demonstrates how minor adjustments can streamline recycling processes and promote reuse.

Want to delve deeper into how design can drive sustainability? Explore this blog for more details.

3. Simplify Recycling Through Smart Labeling

The recyclability of packaging also hinges on label design. Elements such as adhesive choice, size, and removal ease can make or break the recycling process. For example:

• Labels should be sized appropriately to minimize material usage.

• Water-soluble adhesives can enhance the recyclability of plastic bottles, preventing them from being misread and sorted for incineration.

• Labels that detach easily—like those on juice bottles—help maintain the integrity of recycling systems and maximize the number of times materials can be reused.

Choosing eco-friendly adhesives and consulting with local manufacturers for optimal label sizing are small steps that collectively result in a big impact.

Bridging Innovation and Sustainability

The push toward sustainable packaging doesn’t have to come at the expense of quality or creativity. By integrating locally sourced materials, recyclable designs, and innovative labelling techniques, businesses can align with global sustainability goals while meeting consumer demands for environmentally friendly products.

At Skanem India, we’re committed to helping brands make informed, sustainable choices. Whether it’s optimizing logistics, selecting the right materials, or innovating label designs, we offer end-to-end support to elevate your packaging sustainability.

Interested in diving deeper into the specifics of sustainable label practices? Check out our blog: 3 Key Practices for More Sustainable Packaging.

By starting with these small yet impactful changes, your brand can lead the charge toward a greener future. Contact us to explore how we can help your business achieve its sustainability goals.