Sustainability through design : a triple bottom line (TBL) approach to disposable food and beverage plastic packaging

Abstract

Since the discovery of plastics, scientists have continuously modified natural plastics to make them stronger and more durable. Today, the plastic industry has become a highly debated subject. Plastic packaging has the second highest consumption rate in the world, making it a commodity that needs to be managed properly. For this research, focus and design intent were applied to disposable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water bottles - presently one of the largest fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) on the market. The current system surrounding PET water bottles was analysed to determine its pitfalls and opportunities. This research drew inspiration from two concepts: the first referred to the impact that the use of plastics has had on the environment and human health while the second explored the prevalence and continued increase in use of the material. By looking at each stage of the product’s life cycle, the project showcased findings from all relevant sectors and accumulated knowledge for action to facilitate a sustainable design solution. The greater understanding which was gained is applied to disposable PET water bottle design and ultimately contributes to waste management systems. By viewing the system as a holistic entity, it demonstrated how disposable PET water bottles interact with the current system. The study showed how the systems that relate to the life cycle of a PET water bottle can be optimised through the lens of the triple bottom line (TBL) approach and Gestalt principles. Through researching the three sections within the TBL (people, profit, planet), the wants and needs of each section were captured and analysed. To comply with the overreaching principles of the TBL and adhere to the proposed sustainability of a circular economy, this study resulted in the design of two water bottle prototypes. A holistic intervention which met the overarching objectives of all three sections was proposed as well as two design concepts, which facilitate a critical exploration of the key factors impacting sustainable design decisions.