The green light of circular economy in e-labeling for sustainable product package design
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35208/ert.1670080Keywords:
Circular economy, consumers, sustainable product packaging design, visual communication, wasteAbstract
This study evaluates the potential of electronic labeling (e-labeling) in promoting sustainable product package design (SPPD) within a circular economy framework. The research objectives are to categorize e-labeling types and develop a framework for understanding its role in SPPD. A modified Delphi technique, Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM), and literature review were employed to achieve these objectives. Twenty anonymous Delphi participants contributed to the study, reaching a consensus on e-labeling classifications through a participatory approach. The findings indicate that e-labels can be categorized into three primary types: digital displays, website links, and machine-readable codes (e.g., QR codes). These categories can be further sub-classified based on tagging techniques, medium, and goal. The study reveals that e-labeling has significant environmental implications, including waste reduction, reuse promotion, improved public health, and decreased raw material usage. By classifying e-labeling, this research aims to increase awareness about its potential to support environmental sustainability and informed consumer choices. The proposed framework suggests that e-labeling can be integrated into sustainable practices through Private-Public Sector Partnerships (PPP), Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM), and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The framework also includes incentivizing consumers for promoting sustainable behaviors. Furthermore, the study finds that e-labeling can serve as a green application, enabling consumers to access information on waste classification, recycling reminders, and environmental impact assessments. The research recommends the adoption of the proposed framework to enhance the understanding of e-labeling in SPPD, ultimately contributing to a circular economy.
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