The continuously growing pipeline of pharmaceutical drug candidates has inadvertently led to an increase in the demand for product packaging solutions. Further, the gradual shift of the healthcare industry from the one-drug-treats-all model to a personalized approach, coupled to the growing complexities associated with modern pharmacological interventions, has compelled packaging providers to identify innovative solutions.
Since packaging material comes in direct contact with the drug, it is essential to ensure that it does not negatively impact the sterility and quality of the product. In addition, packaging provides important information related to the product, including dosing instructions. At present, most of the healthcare packaging uses plastic, which has been known to have an adverse impact on the environment. Specifically, according to the World Health Organization, over 300 million tons of plastic waste is generated, each year, by the pharmaceutical industry, of which, 50% has single-use purpose.
Moreover, 85% of the trash produced by healthcare operations, including pharmaceutical and medical equipment packaging, is non-hazardous and hence, exhibits the potential to be replaced by other eco-friendly and reusable alternatives, enabling significant cost savings.
In recent years, several healthcare stakeholders have actively undertaken initiatives to replace the conventional packaging materials with sustainable, biodegradable and recyclable alternatives, in order to reduce the environmental impact. In addition, players engaged in the healthcare packaging industry are incorporating circular economy, which facilitates greater sustainability within supply chains, to offer a systemic approach to address environmental issues.
According to industry experts, currently, sustainable solutions account for 10%-25% of the total primary pharmaceutical packaging. In this regard, many companies are also developing novel sustainable packaging solutions, paving the way for new generation of healthcare packaging options, such as plant-based packaging made from corn starch, sugarcane and cassava. It has further been observed that use of greener packaging solutions can expand customer base, given the growing consciousness to conserve environment among individuals.
The report features an extensive study of the current market landscape and future opportunity for the players engaged in offering sustainable, biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging solutions in the healthcare sector. The study presents an in-depth analysis, highlighting the capabilities of various stakeholders engaged in this domain.
