Resources
Sustainable Packaging Decision Matrix
A practical, science-driven tool to evaluate packaging choices.
Selecting the right packaging material today requires balancing sustainability, performance, and cost. To make this process objective and consistent, I’ve developed a Sustainable Packaging Decision Matrix — a structured scoring framework that helps you compare different packaging materials based on measurable criteria.
- This tool is designed for:
- FMCG brands
- Packaging developers
- Sustainability managers
- Startups designing new packs
- Students & researcher
📥Download the Tool
Sustainable Packaging Decision Matrix — Click Here
Packaging Material Specification
Packaging material specifications define the technical, functional, and quality requirements for each packaging component used in FMCG, food, home & personal care products. These documents help ensure consistent performance, regulatory compliance, supplier alignment, and sustainability across the entire packaging supply chain.
Download Packaging Material Specification Sheets
Flexible Packaging
Laminate Roll Specification Sheet
(Add download link)Mono-PE / Mono-PP Film Specification Sheet
(Add link)
Paper-Based Packaging
Corrugated Board Specification Sheet
(Add link)Duplex Carton / Folding Box Board Specification Sheet
(Add link)
Rigid Plastics
PS Cup Specification Sheet
(Add link)HDPE / PET Bottle Specification Sheet
(Add link)
Labels & Sleeves
BOPP Label Specification Sheet
(Add link)Shrink Sleeve Specification Sheet
(Add link)
Others
Aluminium Foil Specification Sheet
(Add link)Blister / Thermoformed Tray Specification Sheet
(Add link)
Food Packaging Principles And Practice
Author: Gordon L. Robertson
Description: This book presents a comprehensive discussion of food packaging principles and their applications.
Link: Food Packaging Principles and Practice Third Edition
Cosmetic Packaging
Packaging Technology
Author: Anne Emblem
Description: Provides an introduction and reference for both students and experienced packaging professionals, covering fundamental issues and materials.
Link: Packaging Technology
Pharmaceutical Packaging
Pharmaceutical Packaging Handbook
Editor: Edward Bauer
Description: A complete reference for anyone working in the pharmaceutical industry, listing information in an easy-to-follow fashion.
Link: Pharmaceutical Packaging Handbook
Packaging Technology And Engineering
Authors: Dipak Kumar Sarker
Description: Covers chemistry, physics, engineering, and therapeutic aspects of packaging—universal to pharmaceutical, medical, and food applications.
Link: Packaging Technology and Engineering
Industrial Packaging
Materials For Advanced Packaging
Editors: Daniel Lu, C.P. Wong
Description: Provides a comprehensive summary of the most recent advances in materials development for advanced packaging.
Link: Materials for Advanced Packaging
General Packaging Resources
The Wiley Encyclopedia Of Packaging Technology
Editors: Kit L. Yam
Description: The complete and authoritative guide to modern packaging technologies—updated and expanded.
Link: The Wiley Encyclopedia of Packaging Technology
Plastic Packaging: Interactions With Food And Pharmaceuticals (2nd Edition)
Authors: Otto G. Piringer, A.L. Baner
Description: This handbook covers all important aspects of plastic packaging and the interdisciplinary knowledge needed by food and pharmaceutical technologists.
Link: Plastic Packaging: Interactions with Food and Pharmaceuticals
Educational Resources
Michigan State University Libraries - Packaging Guide
Description: A comprehensive guide to packaging resources, including books, journals, and databases.
Link: Packaging: Finding Books
LCA Tools For Packaging
SimaPro
- Description: A professional-grade LCA software used for detailed analysis of environmental impacts. It includes extensive databases like Ecoinvent and Agrifootprint for precise calculations.
- Key Features:
- Comprehensive impact assessment methods.
- Scenario analysis for different packaging designs.
- User-friendly interface for advanced modeling.
- Website: SimaPro
GaBi
- Description: Developed by Sphera, GaBi is a powerful tool for LCA with industry-specific solutions. It offers detailed packaging impact models and integrates with extensive databases.
- Key Features:
- Wide range of data libraries, including packaging materials.
- Product design optimization for sustainability.
- Collaboration capabilities for team projects.
- Website: GaBi Software
OpenLCA
- Description: An open-source LCA software ideal for academic, research, and business users. It supports a variety of databases and offers free access to many features.
- Key Features:
- Free and open-source platform.
- Access to databases like Ecoinvent and Agribalyse.
- Flexible modeling for customized packaging analyses.
- Website: OpenLCA
PackageSmart
- Description: A specialized LCA tool by EarthShift Global, designed specifically for the packaging industry. It enables quick and detailed environmental assessments for packaging.
- Key Features:
- Industry-specific focus on packaging.
- Easy-to-use templates for streamlined LCAs.
- Customizable scenarios for different material choices.
- Website: PackageSmart
EcoImpact-COMPASS
- Description: Developed by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, this tool evaluates environmental impacts specifically for packaging systems.
- Key Features:
- Tailored for packaging professionals.
- Quick assessments based on material selection.
- Benchmarks against industry standards.
- Website: EcoImpact-COMPASS
One Click LCA
- Description: Known for its simplicity and speed, this tool is widely used across industries, including packaging. It focuses on material and carbon impact analyses.
- Key Features:
- Supports automated data entry from BIM software.
- Industry-specific templates, including packaging.
- Detailed carbon footprint analysis.
- Website: One Click LCA
Umberto
- Description: A versatile tool for conducting material flow analysis and life cycle assessments, suitable for packaging and manufacturing.
- Key Features:
- Visual process modeling for easy understanding.
- Database integration for accurate impact measurement.
- Suitable for both beginners and experts.
- Website: Umberto LCA+
Sustainable Minds
- Description: Designed for product designers and manufacturers, this cloud-based tool provides simplified LCA insights for packaging.
- Key Features:
- Cloud-based with real-time updates.
- Simplified workflows for quick assessments.
- Integration with design software for seamless analysis.
Website: Sustainable Minds
