It is worth noting that in the ever-evolving spectrum of packaging, choice of material, manufacturing technology, as well as lightweighting emerge as major opportunities when it comes to innovation, as per a recent report rolled out by Industrial Physics.
Manufacturers are looking out for sustainable choices compared to traditional plastics. Lara Botta, who happens to be the VP of Botta EcoPackaging, goes on to stress the significance of post-consumer recycled- PCR materials.
PCR materials go on to offer a valuable choice in which traditional materials fall short, especially proving effective when it comes to high-volume sectors like food packaging.
Testing standards as well as new materials: a delicate balance indeed
When it comes to the adoption of new materials, it surely brings forth issues in terms of meeting testing standards. As organizations look to explore sustainable options, making sure of compliance along with the existing standards becomes all the more important.
Sales director of EMEA at Industrial Physics, Will Geller, goes on to advocate the testing of new materials by way of making use of established instruments so as to maintain performance parity.
But there are challenges that do persist, specifically for those who go on to invest in plastic reduction, lightweighting, and coatings.
Automation as the driving force for material reduction
In order to reduce costs and, at the same time, enhance productivity, manufacturers are indeed turning to automation.
Almost half of those who have been surveyed expressed that enhancing productivity on the production line happens to be a major motivator when it comes to exploring new packaging methods.
Automation not only makes the processes seamless but, at the same time, also aids in building sustainable as well as high-quality packaging.
Future trends in innovation when it comes to packaging
When we tend to look at the future, manufacturers do foresee some extremely promising developments when it comes to packaging testing processes as well as equipment. Apparently, automation, novel testing methods, along with the equipment designed for new materials or standards are expected.
Apart from this, packaging shape along with coatings come up as areas that are ideal for innovation, thereby reflecting a wider industry shift when it comes to sustainability as well as user-centric design.
The study goes on to conclude that the packaging sector indeed stands right on the brink of some transformative changes.
By taking into account sustainable materials, taking care of testing challenges, as well as leveraging automation, manufacturers may not just meet the demand when it comes to eco-friendly packaging but, at the same time, also pave the way for an efficient and more sustainable future.