Sustainability in packaging design.

Sustainable packaging design takes ecological, economic and social factors into account over the entire life cycle of a packaging. The aim is to conserve resources, ensure recyclability and at the same time make brand messages tangible. This includes

• Choice of materials: recyclable, bio-based or compostable materials
• Reduction: minimum use of materials with maximum product protection
• Function & communication: packaging protects, informs and strengthens the brand identity
• Innovation: new concepts that combine recyclability and user-friendliness

Sustainable packaging is therefore more than just environmentally friendly – it combines design, brand strategy and responsibility for the future.

Sustainable packaging for food combines functionality, safety and environmental friendliness. Frequently used materials are

• Paper and cardboard from FSC-certified or recycled sources
• Monomaterials such as PE or PET that are fully recyclable
• Bio-based plastics made from plant-based raw materials such as corn starch or sugar cane
• Fiber composites and bagasse (residues from sugar cane or other plants)
• Compostable films according to EN13432 for industrial or home composting
  Each material is selected according to durability, product protection, recyclability and brand impact to make sustainability measurable.

We start with a precise analysis: product requirements, brand values and target group behavior. Based on this, we develop design solutions that reduce the use of materials, increase recyclability and strengthen the brand identity at the same time.

The result: sustainability that is visible, tangible and credible.

Sustainability and brand staging are not mutually exclusive – on the contrary. Reduced forms, natural color schemes and honest materials can emotionally charge brands and create trust.

At MILK. we design packaging that has a conscious effect – not instructive, but inspiring.

These terms are often confused, but have different meanings:

• Compostable: The material can be decomposed into humus under industrial or domestic conditions within a certain period of time (e.g. according to EN13432 standard).
• Biodegradable: The material breaks down by natural processes into smaller components that are broken down by microorganisms. The conditions and speed are less strictly regulated than for compostability.
• Recyclable: The material can be returned to the existing recycling cycle and processed into new product material. It is important that it is single-origin and suitable for the existing recycling infrastructure.

Note: A material can be recyclable and biodegradable at the same time, but it does not have to be – the choice therefore depends on the product, application and environmental strategy.

For MILK., sustainable design is not a trend, but a strategic differentiator. Brands that make responsibility visible create trust and relevance. We develop packaging that clearly communicates ecological values – without greenwashing, but with attitude and recognizability.

For us, sustainability and creativity are not mutually exclusive – they inspire each other. We design solutions that achieve more impact with less material, a clear design language and honest aesthetics. The result is packaging that is environmentally conscious and at the same time makes brands desirable.