According to the definition, sustainable or eco-friendly packaging is the packaging that poses no harm to the individuals or their environment throughout its life cycle, is entirely made of recycled and renewable material, meets the market's performance and cost criteria, and once deteriorated, can be recycled.

Sustainable or eco-friendly packaging, as defined, represents a paradigm shift in the packaging industry, aspiring to align with ecological principles and ethical considerations. This transformative approach seeks to create packaging solutions that not only serve their intended purposes but also exhibit a commitment to environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. The comprehensive definition of sustainable packaging emphasizes several key criteria that collectively contribute to its environmentally benign nature and conscientious life cycle.

At the core of this definition is the overarching principle that sustainable packaging should inflict no harm, neither to individuals nor to the environment, throughout its entire life cycle. This life cycle perspective encompasses the entire journey of the packaging, from its initial production and use to its eventual disposal or recycling. This holistic view ensures that the environmental impact is considered at every stage, mitigating potential harm to ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations.

Another fundamental criterion is the composition of sustainable packaging, which should be entirely derived from recycled and renewable materials. This shift away from traditional, resource-intensive materials underscores a commitment to reducing the reliance on finite resources and minimizing the ecological footprint associated with raw material extraction. By opting for recycled and renewable sources, sustainable packaging contributes to the conservation of natural resources and promotes a circular economy, wherein materials are reused and recycled to minimize waste.

Meeting the market's performance and cost criteria is a pragmatic aspect of sustainable packaging, recognizing the need for practicality and economic viability. Sustainability should not come at the expense of functionality or affordability. Striking a balance between environmental responsibility and market demands ensures that sustainable packaging solutions are not only eco-friendly but also practical alternatives that can seamlessly integrate into existing supply chains and consumer expectations.

A pivotal criterion is the recyclability of sustainable packaging once it reaches the end of its life cycle. The ability to recycle packaging materials contributes to the reduction of waste in landfills and the conservation of resources. Sustainable packaging materials, therefore, aim to complete a circular loop, where they can be collected, processed, and reincorporated into the production of new packaging, reducing the overall demand for virgin materials and minimizing the environmental impact.

In essence, the definition of sustainable packaging encapsulates a holistic and multifaceted approach to responsible packaging practices. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, striving to create a packaging paradigm that not only meets the immediate needs of the market but also contributes positively to the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants. As the global consciousness around environmental issues continues to grow, the pursuit of sustainable packaging represents an ongoing commitment to fostering a more harmonious relationship between human activities and the natural world.