Social Impact
News and analysis on the human side of packaging, covering accessibility, equality, consumer behaviour, responsible sourcing and more.
Is it time for all trade shows to switch to reusable cups?
Borealis and Messe Düsseldorf piloted a reusable cup scheme at K Show 2025 with the aim of cutting waste and
Taking stock as Global Plastics Treaty negotiations begin at INC-5.3
Negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty continue in Geneva, but where do we currently stand – and where do negotiators hope
A status report on GLP-1 packaging: sizing, safety, security, and more
Weight-loss drugs keep gaining traction – is that a blessing or a curse for the packaging industry? We dive deeper
Nestlé chief executive blames Trump for sustainability silence
Nestlé’s chief executive allegedly blames President Donald Trump for the brand’s public silence on sustainability, telling employees that
What the High Seas Treaty means for packaging: from substrates to shipping
The High Seas Treaty has entered into force, with potential implications for the packaging industry – including access to marine genetic
Do consumers demand too much?
In a rush? Click here to read a summary of this article Introduction This report explores why some sustainability-focused
2D code helps disabled consumers access on-pack information offline
HD Barcode aims to improve the accessibility of on-pack product information with HDInfoCode, an advanced 2D code designed for
Plain packaging could discourage teenagers from buying vapes, say researchers
Research led by University College London and King’s College London suggests that selling vape pods in plain packaging could
What are the key factors in a successful deposit return system?
A new fact sheet from Reloop names system scope, refund value, and convenience and accessibility as the keys to a
McDonald’s Happy Meal box becomes canvas to ‘draw how you feel’
McDonald’s and BBC Children in Need have debuted blank Happy Meal boxes to encourage children to express their emotions
Sustainability definitions and performance concerns hinder packaging progress
McKinsey’s latest research identifies six key barriers companies face when considering sustainability-minded packaging materials, including performance concerns, limited
The Microsoft approach to packaging accessibility
There’s a quiet power in the way Kevin Marshall speaks about design. Not as something ornamental, but as a