WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY?
A dynamic equilibrium in the processes of interaction between a population and the carrying capacity
of an environment such, that the population develops to express its full potential without adversely and
irreversibly affecting the carrying capacity of the environment upon which it depends.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS:
1. Prevention Waste prevention is a primary goal. Packaging should be used only where needed.
2. Minimization (also "source reduction") The mass and volume of packaging (per unit of
contents) can be measured and used as criteria for minimizing the package in the design process.
3. Reuse Reusable packaging is encouraged. Returnable packaging has long been useful (and
economically viable) for closed loop logistics systems. Inspection, cleaning, repair and
recouperage are often needed.
4. Recycling Recycling is the reprocessing of materials (pre- and post-consumer) into new
products.
5. Energy recovery Waste-to-energy and Refuse-derived fuel in approved facilities make use of
the heat available from incinerating the packaging components.
6. Disposal Incineration, and placement in a sanitary landfill are undertaken for some materials.
References:
http://www.sustainability.com/sustainability
http://www.afflink.com/blog/4-ways-to-achieve-a-holistic-approach-to-sustainable-packaging
https://www.epa.gov/sustainability/learn-about-sustainability#wh
http://www.sustainabilitylabs.org/files/Sustainability%20-%20The%20Five%20Core
%20Principles_0.pdf