The really big trend is set to be the concept of the circular economy. There’s been a term for this approach since the 1990s: Cradle-to-cradle. This is the idea that 100% reusability and recyclability can be achieved throughout the entire production chain. This is definitely an ambitious project.

However, it’s also where Carolina E. Schweig, an independent packaging consultant, sees the future of the industry heading: “The industry should, or rather must, focus more on the holistic processes, not just on the packaging means and materials. Anyone that is already looking to use cradle-to-cradle will reinforce that focus anyway. However, everyone else also needs to get to grips with this concept, and not just for efficacy and profitability. It’s good for the wallet and the environment.” Part of this process philosophy is not just switching to more sustainable packaging materials but also asking where we could fundamentally change elements in the product itself.

Finally, the Mainz-based company Werner & Mertz has proven that cradle-to-cradle isn’t just a nice idea that’s a long way off from being realised. Their detergent bag, which is made entirely from recycled polyethylene and is also fully recyclable, is the product that has brought the cradle-to-cradle concept into the here and now. A product like this is not created overnight, and interdisciplinary cooperation is a prerequisite. However, it is possible.

The direction for 2022 is thus clear: a holistic, resource-saving and recycling production chain. How the industry achieves this, with what means and whether the consumers are ready to bear any potential extra costs is as yet generally unclear. In any case, it will be exciting to see what the new year brings.