Sustainability as a concept is a deep rooted but very simple, it is layered but not too tough to break down. Most consumers are switching to sustainable products and alternatives that help protect, nurture and look after the environment. Consumers are willing to go out of their way to understand the importance of environment protection, how it can affect us fundamentally. Several businesses are also vocal about it and are taking their stand in making a difference for the planet. We sat down with Prianka Jhaveri, Co Founder of The Mend Packaging to discuss whether consumer are inclined towards sustainable choices or not.
Sustainable Choices
While sustainability is a buzzword that’s taken root in the past few decades, the importance of a
company actually taking responsibility for its actions and its impact on the environment, people and
profitability, is fast growing amongst conscious consumers. A recent study by Harvard Business School,
depicted that 70% of Americans believe it’s “somewhat” or “very important” for companies to make the
world a better place.
You can see this change in consumer behaviour in your everyday life as well- apparel brands promising
ethically sourced and traceable fabrics, cosmetics brands promoting clean and earth-friendly beauty, and
electronics companies offering buybacks to recycle and refurbish old devices. But as customers apply
more pressure on companies to act responsibly, they are also weighing in on what constitutes a PR
announcement and what companies are actually doing to push the needle.
Sustainable Packaging
Packaging is ubiquitous and the largest contributor to landfill waste across all industries. Increasing
consumer awareness coupled with regulatory changes over concerns of single use plastic are huge
drivers for brands committing to more sustainable packaging alternatives. Especially with legislative bans
focused on eliminating the use of plastic, companies are taking heed towards transforming their
packaging towards more sustainable options.
At The Mend, we encourage our audiences to switch to more sustainable solutions in a variety of ways:
● We aim to provide packaging that is 100% recyclable
● Create packaging that is composed of a high % of recycled content
● Eliminate packaging completely for some products as they can be sent without any designated
package
● Going completely plastic free and focusing on paper based packaging that is lightweight and less
harmful to the environment.
● Introducing buy back or incentive programs to motivate end consumers to properly recycle or reuse
their products
● Innovate with packaging design to ensure minimal use and minimum wastage of raw materials also
think about different ways the package can be used after the product has been delivered.
● Help brands go one step further and recycle the waste generated in their manufacturing units
● Help brands become carbon neutral workforces by helping them recycle their waste, plant trees and
introduce programs to offset their carbon footprint.
These are small steps, but significant ones in ensuring companies show up for their clients and the planet.
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