Green Packaging Practices: Reducing Waste through Managerial Innovation

Abstract

In the context of escalating waste, resource depletion and environmental concern, packaging has emerged as a critical node for managerial innovation in sustainability. “Green packaging” refers to design, material, and process innovations that reduce environmental impact by minimizing material use, improving recyclability, using renewable or recycled content, and re-thinking packaging life cycles. This paper explores how managerial innovation—spanning design decisions, supply-chain coordination, cross‐functional governance, performance measurement and stakeholder engagement—can drive the adoption of green packaging practices. We examine (1) key enabling technologies and materials, (2) major use-cases across industries, (3) critical challenges and limitations of implementation, (4) future prospects for managerial practice in this field, and (5) a focused analysis of managerial levers to reduce waste. Empirical market data shows that the global green packaging market is estimated at roughly USD $295 billion in 2023 and projected to reach ~USD $462.7 billion by 2032 (CAGR ~5.0 %). Through innovative packaging management, firms can reduce total waste, lower life-cycle costs, enhance brand value and contribute to circular economic goals. The paper concludes by offering managerial guidelines and a future research agenda.