Sustainable Packaging Trends: What Matters for Our Industry and Our Customers

In the packaging industry, conversations around sustainability are no longer optional, they are shaping how brands design, source, and communicate their products. At VIVO, we see this shift every day in the questions customers ask, the materials they prefer, and the outcomes they expect. The push toward a more sustainable plastics economy is real, but it comes with practical challenges that businesses must navigate thoughtfully.

One of the biggest trends is the move toward more recyclable packaging. Many brands have set ambitious goals to transition a large portion of their portfolio into fully recyclable formats. This is driving interest in monomaterial structures, such as all‑PE or all‑PP packaging, which make recycling easier and reduce contamination. While the technology exists, switching materials isn’t as simple as it sounds. It often requires equipment adjustments, re‑qualification, and in some cases, compromises on sealing performance or cost. As converters, we work closely with customers to help them understand these trade‑offs and make decisions that balance sustainability with product protection and commercial reality.

Another important trend is the rising demand for post‑consumer recycled (PCR) content. Customers increasingly ask about PCR availability, quality, and cost. They want packaging that is not only recyclable but also made from recycled materials. The challenge is that high‑quality PCR, especially food‑grade, is still limited and often more expensive than virgin resin. However, demand continues to grow, and as more collection and recycling infrastructure develops, we expect availability to improve. At VIVO, we help customers decide when PCR is the right fit and what percentage works best for performance and budget.

Beyond materials, consumer behavior plays a critical role. Many shoppers say they want sustainable packaging, but confusion remains high. Terms like “recyclable,” “biodegradable,” and “compostable” are often misunderstood. This means packaging design must go hand‑in‑hand with clear communication. We encourage customers to think not only about what the pack is made of, but also about how it guides consumers to dispose of it correctly. A well‑designed pack that is poorly understood doesn’t achieve sustainability goals.

We also see a growing focus on transparency and lifecycle thinking. Customers want to know where materials come from, how they are processed, and what environmental impact they carry. This is pushing suppliers including us to invest more in data, testing, and certification. It’s no longer enough to say something is sustainable; we must be able to demonstrate it.

Ultimately, sustainability is about balance. Businesses need solutions that are environmentally responsible but still feasible, scalable, and cost‑effective. At VIVO, our role is to help customers navigate these choices providing realistic guidance, offering innovative material options, and designing packaging that aligns with both their sustainability goals and market expectations.

The journey toward a circular plastics economy will take time, collaboration, and continuous innovation. But with smarter design, better materials, and shared commitment across the industry, the shift is well underway, and VIVO is proud to be part of it.