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Whether they buy into the warnings about climate change or dismiss it as a bunch of hot air, trading partners recognize that green initiatives offer a chance to build their brands and drive cost savings. As a result, new strategies aimed at reducing waste and conforming to environmental best practices in packaging are taking root.

At the VCF VisionSync 2009 Conference in Tampa, FL, June Anderson, partner at the Packaging Knowledge Group, said the business case for sustainability was given a major boost from the world's biggest retailer. Walmart is leading the way with its sustainable packaging initiative and its plans to develop eco-ratings for the products it sells, which she said will force other retailers to boost their sustainability efforts. "Walmart will be asking all of you to help it meet its packaging and sustainability goals."

Ms. Anderson said organizations should start by developing their vision and goals around sustainable packaging, gather data and identify key metrics that will help them measure and assess performance. Some of the metrics currently being measured in many organizations include reducing emissions and waste, cutting back on water and electricity consumption, and utilizing alternative resources in making products and packaging.

Ms. Anderson identified six steps to achieving sustainable packaging that makes sound financial sense.

1. Eliminate Materials: Optimize the design of packaging that reduces space and eliminates unnecessary materials.
2. Change Materials: Utilize virgin materials from renewable sources and design for recycling and re-use.

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