Sustainable Packaging Design
Vega Protein & Greens
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Spring 2021
Since the invention of plastic in 1907, every piece of plastic continues to remain on this earth, slowly decaying until it forms into microplastics that can be found in our food, water, air, and even human fetuses. Although plastic is innovative in its durability, lightweighted-ness, and price, majority of plastic waste ends up in landfills. Of 9.2 billion tons of plastic, only 9% has been recycled properly. As we become more aware of this, sustainable packaging within every day products is slowly starting to take form within the market. As consumers start to become more aware of the ethicality of the products they purchase, the demand for plastic-free and sustainable products increases. Not only is this great from an environmentalists perspective, but should also be a standard mindset of product and packaging design, from the packaging to even the ingredients.
For this project, I wanted to choose a product that I use quite often that is often sold in a large plastic tub: protein powder. As someone who chooses to eat a mostly plant-based diet, I specifically chose the brand Vega, a top selling vegan protein brand. Although plant-based ingredients and a recylable tub are a good step, I wanted to find ways to push sustainability and reusability within the product’s life cycle.
The solution that I provide is a smaller-sized cylinder tub made from recycled post-consumer materials, mostly durable paper, that could be easily reused, refilled, recycled, or composted. Once purchasing the smaller tub, the consumer could then purchase a bulk bag made from the same materials, easily refilling their smaller cylinder. The protein comes in biodegradable pods that are edible and water-soluble, making portability and portioning easier. This solution not only provide a more cost-effective route for the consumer, but also offers a new look that is cleaner, natural, simple, and more likely to be kept on a countertop. Not to mention immensely better for the planet.
