[5] Additionally, an eco-cost to value ratio can be useful[6] The goals are to improve the long term viability and quality of life for humans and the longevity of natural ecosystems.
Companies implementing eco-friendly actions are reducing their carbon footprint, using more recycled materials and reusing more package components.
Recent years have accelerated these efforts based on social movements, consumer pressure, and regulation.
Right or wrong, the packaging is frequently scrutinized and used as the measure of a company's overall sustainability, even though it may contribute only a small percentage to the total eco-impact compared to other things, such as transportation, and water and energy use.
[citation needed] The criteria for ranking and comparing packaging based on their sustainability is an active area of development.
[28] Potential stockholders and investors see this as a solid decision: lower environmental risks lead to more capital at cheaper rates.
[30] Alternatives such as bio-based plastics that are abundant, low cost, and biodegradable, offer a possibility of reducing use of petroleum resources and carbon dioxide emissions.
A plant proteins-based biodegradable packaging alternative to plastic was developed based on research about spider silk which is known for its high strength and similar on the molecular level.
Instead of being made of synthetic polymers, these dairy-based films would be composed of proteins such as casein and whey, which are found in milk.
More research must be done to improve the water barrier quality of the dairy-based film, but advances in sustainable packaging are actively being pursued.
There may be an expensive and lengthy process before the new forms of packaging are deemed safe to the public, and approval may take up to two years.
Some people foresee a true sustainable steady state economy that may be very different from today's: greatly reduced energy usage, minimal ecological footprint, fewer consumer packaged goods, local purchasing with short food supply chains, little processed foods, etc.