Article: Growing Greener Brands

For many brand owners, sustainable packaging is becoming a key part of the product development equation. Data from a recent Pike Research study called "Sustainable Packaging" supports this, forecasting that eco-friendly packaging will nearly double in revenues between 2009 and 2014, from $88B to $170B.

While most companies have initially focused efforts on packaging materials, including use of renewable materials, increasing recycled content and source reduction initiatives such as lightweighting and downgauging, additional gains can be found in operations. Lean and clean design, efficient motors and equipment that conserves resources and generates less waste can all help brand owners achieve sustainability goals.