Guidelines for Designing Eco-friendly Packaging for Beverages Delivered

Abstract

Thailand’s solid waste surged to 27.20 million tons in 2024 due to economic growth and the booming online food ordering trend. This led to a massive accumulation of single-use plastic waste, especially from the rapidly expanding food and beverage delivery industry. To address this, this research aims to study and propose eco-friendly beverage delivery packaging design guidelines using a qualitative approach. The study focused on Bangkok’s metropolitan area, targeting individuals aged 18 to 45. It involved a market survey of eight existing packaging brands and in-depth interviews with three beverage industry experts. The data were analyzed to conceptualize two packaging sketch designs based on product protection, delivery convenience, and sustainability. After expert evaluation, the designs were narrowed down to the most suitable model for production as a functional prototype. The prototype underwent practical usability and satisfaction testing with 30 consumers, 8 delivery personnel, and 5 to 10 entrepreneurs. It revealed the highest efficiency in spill prevention during delivery and was highly accepted for its premium, eco-friendly image and cost-effectiveness. However, limitations were found regarding material strength when exposed to moisture, causing structural sagging, and convenience issues, including difficulty for consumers in lifting the packaging and a time-consuming locking mechanism for entrepreneurs. These findings were used to formulate the final design guidelines. Such sustainable packaging mitigates negative impacts on the ecosystem and responds to ESG investment trends. It also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, which aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.