A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging

Abstract Packaging shapes consumer behavior functionally as much as aesthetically. Initially, it was just a protective measure, but it has now become a primary marketing tool. Many consumers prioritize price, convenience, and design over sustainability, despite an increasing environmental consciousn...

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Main Authors: Melvin N. Espineda, Angelo H. Banocnoc, Ian Boots B. Bautista
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Springer 2025-08-01
Series:Discover Sustainability
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01707-7
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author Melvin N. Espineda
Angelo H. Banocnoc
Ian Boots B. Bautista
author_facet Melvin N. Espineda
Angelo H. Banocnoc
Ian Boots B. Bautista
author_sort Melvin N. Espineda
collection DOAJ
description Abstract Packaging shapes consumer behavior functionally as much as aesthetically. Initially, it was just a protective measure, but it has now become a primary marketing tool. Many consumers prioritize price, convenience, and design over sustainability, despite an increasing environmental consciousness. Due to durability and usage issues, environmentally friendly choices such as reusable bags and biodegradable plastics face difficulty in gaining acceptance. Environmentally friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics and reusable bags, are hindered in adoption due to durability issues. This study employs a phenomenological research approach and the modified Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen Method to investigate the lived experiences of eco-bag users, graphic designers, and sustainability advocates in Metro Manila. It identified four key themes affecting sustainable packaging adoption: (1) Enhancing Durability for Sustainability, Safety, and Efficiency; (2) Using Minimalist Design in Eco Bags to Enhance Appeal and Sustainability.; (3) Implementing Widespread Adoption of Eco-Bags through Clear Policies and Guidelines; and (4) Using and Promoting Recyclable and Natural Raw Materials in Eco-friendly Bag Packaging. The results underscore the need for collaboration among businesses, legislators, and designers to eliminate barriers to sustainable packaging. A comprehensive approach that emphasizes durability, simplicity, control, and environmentally friendly materials can increase customer involvement and foster broader acceptance.
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series Discover Sustainability
spelling doaj-art-be45f1cf05ee4e3f9ffe0f3c32a6cb132025-08-20T04:01:47ZengSpringerDiscover Sustainability2662-99842025-08-016111610.1007/s43621-025-01707-7A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packagingMelvin N. Espineda0Angelo H. Banocnoc1Ian Boots B. Bautista2School of Media Studies, Mapua UniversitySchool of Media Studies, Mapua UniversitySchool of Media Studies, Mapua UniversityAbstract Packaging shapes consumer behavior functionally as much as aesthetically. Initially, it was just a protective measure, but it has now become a primary marketing tool. Many consumers prioritize price, convenience, and design over sustainability, despite an increasing environmental consciousness. Due to durability and usage issues, environmentally friendly choices such as reusable bags and biodegradable plastics face difficulty in gaining acceptance. Environmentally friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics and reusable bags, are hindered in adoption due to durability issues. This study employs a phenomenological research approach and the modified Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen Method to investigate the lived experiences of eco-bag users, graphic designers, and sustainability advocates in Metro Manila. It identified four key themes affecting sustainable packaging adoption: (1) Enhancing Durability for Sustainability, Safety, and Efficiency; (2) Using Minimalist Design in Eco Bags to Enhance Appeal and Sustainability.; (3) Implementing Widespread Adoption of Eco-Bags through Clear Policies and Guidelines; and (4) Using and Promoting Recyclable and Natural Raw Materials in Eco-friendly Bag Packaging. The results underscore the need for collaboration among businesses, legislators, and designers to eliminate barriers to sustainable packaging. A comprehensive approach that emphasizes durability, simplicity, control, and environmentally friendly materials can increase customer involvement and foster broader acceptance.https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01707-7Sustainable packaging designConsumer behaviorEco-bagsUsageCradle-to-Cradle (C2C)Environmental policy implementation
spellingShingle Melvin N. Espineda
Angelo H. Banocnoc
Ian Boots B. Bautista
A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
Discover Sustainability
Sustainable packaging design
Consumer behavior
Eco-bags
Usage
Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C)
Environmental policy implementation
title A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
title_full A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
title_fullStr A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
title_full_unstemmed A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
title_short A phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
title_sort phenomenological study of consumer perceptions and industry challenges in the transition to sustainable packaging
topic Sustainable packaging design
Consumer behavior
Eco-bags
Usage
Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C)
Environmental policy implementation
url https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01707-7
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