Making Decisions: Packaging and the Environment

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that one-third of America's municipal solid waste comes from packaging. Thus, it is possible to make a significant reduction in waste by adopting packaging that is highly functional yet minimal. This strategy, known as source reduction, includes lighter packaging, larger-sized packaging (bulk), flexible vs. rigid packing, and eliminating or reducing water (concentrated). Packaging engineers face this challenge everyday as more products are developed; they aim to devise packaging that functions as needed, while minimizing excess and pollution.

After this activity, students should be able to:

• Describe some decisions related to advantages and disadvantages of packaging and processes.
• Use resources (people, references, Internet) to gain knowledge.
• Explain the environmental impact of (re)designing products.