Advancements in Packaging Materials: Trends, Sustainability, and Future Prospects

Alisha Cordeiro (), Mariya Hussain (), T Ramachandran (), N. Beemkumar (), Raman Kumar (), A Karthikeyan (), V. K. Bupesh Raja (), Dhirendra Nath Thatoi (), Abinash Mahapatro (), Jajneswar Nanda (), Chander Prakash () and Arun Y. Patil ()
Additional contact information
Alisha Cordeiro: Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Mariya Hussain: Manipal Academy of Higher Education
T Ramachandran: Vivekananda Global University
N. Beemkumar: Vivekananda Global University
Raman Kumar: Rayat Bahra University
A Karthikeyan: Chandigarh Engineering College, Chandigarh Group of Colleges-Jhanjeri
V. K. Bupesh Raja: Chandigarh Engineering College, Chandigarh Group of Colleges-Jhanjeri
Dhirendra Nath Thatoi: Siksha ’O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University)
Abinash Mahapatro: Siksha ’O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University)
Jajneswar Nanda: Siksha ’O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University)
Chander Prakash: University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University
Arun Y. Patil: Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Circular Economy and Sustainability, 2025, vol. 5, issue 4, 2959-2990

Abstract: Abstract Packaging plays a crucial role in product transportation, storage, and safety, with materials evolving to meet modern demands. Plastic packaging dominates due to its versatility, while paper and metal alternatives are gaining traction due to recyclability and durability. Bioinspired packaging and damage-tolerant designs are emerging trends, with China leading in research. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the demand for medical packaging, where the United States leads in innovation. Advances in biodegradable materials, including biopolymers, plant-based Fibers, and smart packaging, are shaping the future of the industry. While challenges such as cost, durability, and barrier properties persist, innovations in nanotechnology and active packaging are enhancing performance. The shift toward sustainability and the 3R principles—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle continues to drive research and industry transformation. Compliance with regulatory requirements is increasingly supported by emerging technologies, including IoT, blockchain, and cyber-physical systems. Innovations in medical packaging include nanotechnology for barrier protection, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and intelligent packaging (IP), enhancing product quality and safety. Key design considerations focus on tamper-evident features, sterilization, and user-friendly accessibility, especially for children and the elderly. Material selection prioritizes microbial sterility, barrier properties, and durability to ensure product integrity. Sustainability remains a critical focus, with increasing adoption of biodegradable materials and efforts to minimize environmental impact. Future research aims to address gaps in sustainable packaging, regulatory compliance, and advanced material development to further improve packaging efficiency, safety, and eco-friendliness in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.

Keywords: Sustainable packaging; Bioinspired packaging; Biodegradable polymers; Medical packaging; Smart packaging (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s43615-025-00586-4

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