Launch of Sustainable Blister Packaging
Bayer AG|The Netherlands |October 2024
Environment & Sustainability
Circular economy & environmental footprint
Research & Best Practices
Published on
Modified on
In response to the environmental challenges posed by traditional blister packaging, Bayer reimagined packaging for non-prescription medicines by launching a first-of-its-kind polyethylene terephthalate (PET) blister for its flagship brand Aleve. This innovation not only significantly reduces environmental impact but also aligns with broader sustainability goals in healthcare, positioning Bayer as a leader in circular, eco-conscious product development within the self-care sector.
Objectives
- Reduce the environmental footprint of blister packaging
- Introduce a recyclable, PVC-free packaging format for non-prescription products
- Contribute to sustainable packaging standards and drive systemic industry change
Target Audience
- Healthcare consumers concerned with sustainability
- Industry stakeholders committed to circular packaging solutions
- Environmental and regulatory partners in the healthcare and packaging sectors
Key Activities and Approach
Introduction of PET blister packaging
- Collaboration with Liveo Research
- Applied to Bayer’s non-prescription brand Aleve
- Industry-first use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in blister packs
Environmental performance improvements
- 38% reduction in carbon footprint per unit
- 78% less water and 53% less land used per unit
- 18% lighter packaging
Partnerships and advocacy for systemic change
- Collaboration with Global Self-Care Federation and Blister Pack Collective
- Membership in The Recycling Partnership
- Supporting industry-wide research and infrastructure improvements for circular packaging solutions
Impact and Result
Media reach
- 33 earned news articles with consistent, positive messaging
- Featured in outlets such as Packaging Europe, Packaging Digest, and HBW Insight
Social media engagement
- Company-led post generated 15 times the organic reach of an average Bayer post
- 65 shares across platforms
Insights and Takeaways for Others
- Innovation in packaging requires parallel efforts in recycling policy and infrastructure development
- Partnering across the value chain enhances credibility, accelerates adoption, and drives systemic change
- Environmental stewardship in self-care must balance sustainability with safety, performance, and accessibility