New Trend Hunter Report Explores Sustainability, Eco Initiatives & Upcycling
April 13, 2021 | TrendHunter.com’s latest free report for Toy Association members looks at how brands are diving into the conservation economy – from upcycling waste, to low/zero waste retail and manufacturing.
“From programs that help streamline eco practices and rituals for consumers, to greater experimentation around the recycling and upcycling of products, this report contains key examples from companies that are successfully striking a balance between offering sustainable products and meeting consumer desire for convenience and accessibility,” noted Anne McConnell, senior director of market research & data strategy at The Toy Association. “We encourage our members to tap into this report as they look to become more sustainable in ways that will truly resonate with families.”
The “Conservation Economy” report features the following key consumer insights:
- Sustainable Packages – Home and lifestyle products are increasingly turning to sustainable packaging to lower their impact on the environment. Take the 'Watch and Roll' Child's Rocking Chair from the Napp Studio & Architects. The cleverly designed seating solution for little ones enables them to comfortably sit and stay active when watching TV or reading. The chair is crafted from cardboard that has been sourced from TV packaging.
- Medicinal Waste – The health industry is now prioritizing waste-reduction by taking components of products that would normally be thrown away and turning them into everything from PPE to bandages and supplements. For example, the reusable AirX face mask is a first-of-its-kind design made from coffee, boasting a design that’s vegan, biodegradable, and antimicrobial. The mask is made of coffee yarn and is used with a biodegradable air filter that is meant to be replaced every 30 days.
- Eco Kits – Meal kit brands are aiming to reduce their environmental footprint with reusable packaging and carbon-offsetting initiatives. Liviri Fresh is a container for shipping meal kits that reduces single-use materials. The durable, insulated box has the potential to be filled with everything from fresh meat and seafood to produce, juices, and more. It can be used up to 75 times.
- Waste-Free Gifts – Waste-free gifting is on the rise as people look for ways to reduce their impact on the environment while still taking part in the rituals and traditions they're accustomed to. Brands are helping this process with sustainable and waste-free packaging solutions, like Wrappr, a brand that’s dedicated to supplying consumers with eco-friendly printed wrap made of 100 percent organic, machine-washable cotton used for gift wrap, face masks, shopping bags, or flower bouquet wrap.
This report is the latest in a series from Trend Hunter offering in-depth perspectives and trends in various areas related to the toy industry and youth markets to help spark unique ideas. For additional relevant trends, toy companies can click on the report’s consumer insights examples, scroll down, and click the images for further information.
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