Ecology enters the industry: how sustainable packaging is becoming the future for businesses
Nowadays, more and more companies are choosing to use eco-friendly packaging because of its environmental benefits. Design and Business is meeting the expectations of the market by offering an innovative service of consultancy, design and production of prototype parts and short pilot runs of smart, eco-friendly packaging for small batch production, based on environmentally friendly technologies.
Research carried out in the HoReCa, agri-tourism and organic food producers industries indicates the importance of using sustainable packaging. In the HoReCa sector, sustainable packaging is seen as key to attracting customers and increasing customer loyalty, as customers pay increasing attention to organic choices. In agri-tourism, sustainable packaging is seen as an element that reinforces a positive corporate image. In the organic food producer sector, sustainable packaging is key to attracting customers, as customers associate sustainable packaging with more natural and healthy products.
The use of green packaging is a forward-looking and intelligent solution that benefits the environment and the company itself. The benefits of green packaging are manifold: it reduces waste, conserves natural resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and provides financial benefits. Implementing such solutions is also an opportunity to stand out in the market, increase competitiveness, and attract new customers who are looking for sustainable solutions.
Nordic countries
The Nordic countries are world leaders in ecology and sustainability. In Norway, Sweden and Denmark, the use of environmentally friendly technologies is widespread and gaining increasing support. According to Eurostat, Sweden ranked first in the European Union for waste recycling in 2020, with a recycling rate of 83.6 per cent. Norway, on the other hand, leads Europe in terms of the number of electric cars sold, with as much as 75% of the new car market in 2021.
Furthermore, in these countries, governments and entrepreneurs are investing in the development of innovative and green solutions. According to data published by Nordic Innovation in 2020, the Nordic market for sustainability-related products and services was €114 billion and employed more than 300,000 people.
The implementation of new services and products based on environmentally friendly technologies has positive effects not only for the environment, but also for companies. Companies that implement green solutions gain a positive image and are increasingly appreciated by customers. According to research conducted by Nielsen in 2019, 73% of consumers worldwide are willing to pay more for products and services that come from companies that innovate and change towards sustainability.
It can therefore be seen that the Nordic countries are an example of how investing in green solutions has positive effects for the environment and the economy. Companies that implement such solutions gain a competitive advantage in the market, while at the same time contributing to protecting the environment and ensuring a better future for all.
Poland and environmental packaging
According to the 2021 report ‘Polish Sustainable Market’, as many as 85% of Poles are interested in eco-friendly products and 67% think it is important for packaging to be environmentally friendly.
In addition, research conducted by Deloitte in 2019 shows that 51% of Poles are trying to reduce the amount of waste they throw away in their daily lives and 43% are willing to pay more for green products.
Growing interest in sustainable solutions is also noticeable among entrepreneurs. According to the report ‘Ekopakowanie 2021’ published by PMR in December 2020, the green packaging market in Poland is likely to grow significantly in the coming years. According to estimates, the value of the biodegradable and compostable packaging market in Poland in 2020 was around PLN 80 million, and it may grow to PLN 500 million by 2025.
Thus, it can be seen that the use of eco-friendly packaging is becoming increasingly popular in Poland and sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses. Companies that offer innovative and ecological solutions, such as Design and Business, will certainly find their place in the market and be able to attract new customers who are looking for sustainable products. Implementing green solutions is also an opportunity to contribute to protecting the environment and ensuring a better future for our children and future generations.
The Norwegian and EEA funds represent Norway's contribution to a green, competitive and inclusive Europe.
Through the Norwegian and EEA Funds, Norway contributes to reducing social and economic inequalities and strengthening bilateral relations with beneficiary countries from Central and Southern Europe and the Baltic Sea area.
Norway cooperates closely with the EU under the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA).
Together with other donors, Norway provided €3.3 billion in successive fund programmes between 1994 and 2014.
The Norwegian funds are exclusively funded by Norway and are available in the countries that joined the EU after 2003. The Norwegian funds for 2014-2021 amount to €1.25 billion.