Eco-Friendly FMCG Packaging: Why Australian Brands Must Go Green to Stay in the Game
You’ve got a product people love. It tastes good, works well, or looks fantastic. But if the packaging says “landfill,” many Aussies will pass.
In 2025, sustainability isn’t a “nice to have.” It’s the cost of doing business.
Australian consumers, retailers, and regulators are all pushing for eco-friendly FMCG packaging. And if you’re not ahead of the curve, you’re already behind it.
The Waste Problem We Can’t Ignore
Australia generates over 2.5 million tonnes of packaging waste each year. Most of it is plastic and most ends up in landfill.
According to Maersk, global FMCG packaging trends show a major shift from volume to value-based logistics. That means:
Smaller packaging formats
Lighter materials
Fewer shipping emissions
Smarter, reusable options
Brands that fail to modernise their packaging risk higher costs, less shelf space, and shrinking customer loyalty.
Why Staying the Same Is a Risk
Let’s break down the cost of ignoring the shift:
You’ll lose customers who care about the planet.
Retailers may drop your product if it doesn’t meet sustainability goals.
Your brand may appear outdated or irresponsible.
You’ll pay more in the long run for logistics, fines, or wasted materials.
Consumer expectations are rising fast. If your brand can’t keep up, others will take your place.
The 2025 Target Is Closer Than You Think
Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets require:
100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging
70% of plastic packaging to be recycled or composted
50% average recycled content across all packaging
Brands like Unilever, Nestlé, and local Aussie startups are already aligned. Where does your packaging stand?
The Updated Eco-Friendly FMCG Packaging Guide for Aussie Brands
Let’s look at the practical moves you can make today to meet the moment.
1. Use Smarter Materials (and Prove It)
Maersk notes that brands are shifting toward certified, traceable materials. That means:
Recycled cardboard and FSC-certified paper
Plant-based bioplastics
Aluminium and glass
Mushroom mycelium or seaweed-based wraps
Example: Nestlé has started using paper-based packaging for its Maggi cubes and KitKat in some regions. It's lighter, easier to recycle, and still brand-consistent.
2. Shrink the Footprint
Reducing packaging isn’t just good for the environment. It’s good for logistics, storage, and cost.
Here’s what smart brands are doing:
Right-sizing every pack to reduce waste
Eliminating excess plastic and wrap
Offering multi-use, compact refill pouches
This aligns with Maersk’s trend of decarbonising supply chains. Smaller, lighter packaging = lower transport emissions.
3. Design for Real Recycling
Maersk’s report stresses designing for recovery, not just recyclability on paper. In Australia, that means:
No black plastic
No foil-lined paper
No mixed plastic types
ARL-compliant disposal instructions
Just because something can be recycled doesn’t mean it will. It has to be easy and clear.
4. Offer Reuse and Refill Options
Big brands are piloting reuse programs in Europe and Asia. But local businesses can start small in Australia.
Ideas to consider:
In-store refill stations for dry goods or cleaning products
Refillable glass jars with a return discount
Subscription-based refills delivered in bulk packaging
Refill culture is growing among eco-conscious shoppers. Starting now helps you build trust and loyalty over time.
5. Be Transparent and Tell the Story
Today’s customers want the full picture. That includes your materials, your process, and your plans.
Here’s what to include on-pack and online:
Material breakdown (e.g. 80% recycled cardboard)
Instructions for proper disposal
QR codes linking to sustainability stats
Certifications like FSC, ARL, or Compostable Australia
Shoppers trust brands that are clear and honest. If you’re making progress, show it.
FAQs
What’s the most important packaging trend in 2025?
Modular, recyclable, and lightweight packaging that reduces transport emissions. Maersk confirms that value-based logistics are the new norm in FMCG.
Is eco-packaging only for big brands?
Not at all. In fact, small Aussie brands often switch faster. You have more flexibility and fewer layers of approval. Start with your best-selling product and expand from there.
Can I still use plastic if I want to be eco-friendly?
Yes, but only recyclable plastic like clear PET. Avoid black plastic, PVC, and multi-layer films. Always label clearly to make disposal easy.
Final Thoughts
Eco-packaging isn’t just about being green. It’s about staying in business.
The future of FMCG belongs to brands that are clean, clear, and compliant. If you haven’t reviewed your packaging strategy in the last 12 months, now is the time.
Whether you’re selling kombucha, pet food, or skincare, your packaging is the first impression. Make it count.
Want to Make Your Packaging a Competitive Edge?
At Quirk Design Studio, we help Aussie brands design FMCG packaging that’s eco-friendly, retail-ready, and loved by customers.
Reach out for a consult. Let’s create packaging that sells and sustains.