Better Human - Packaging for small electronic devices

Better Human is a fictitious brand that manufactures high-quality products using sustainable methods.

All Better Human products are made from sustainable and recyclable components such as wood from sustainably managed forests (no tropical timber), corn starch or algae.

To underscore the sustainability of its products, Better Human uses only fully recyclable packaging materials and resource-saving packaging designs.

Better Human markets to all age groups and genders. Its customers typically are willing to pay a higher price for sustainable products. Being a “better human” therefore is a statement, and the brand would likely have a good chance of being successful on the real market.

The tutorials (download the PDF below) summarise all the experience gained throughout the entire creative process, from design and the selection of print finishing methods and materials, to production.

Products & product names

The likewise fictitious products from Better Human have creative names and a memorable, distinctive design. All names incorporate Better Human’s corporate design as well as a unique typography that leaves room for interpretation and a play on words, for instance:

  • ear[th]buds, eco-friendly-manufactured, wireless, in-ear headphones based on energy-saving “greentooth” radio signal technology, with a dark-brown earpiece made of stone pinewood and a green charger made of vulcanised cornstarch foam. (Foto in hires, Foto #2 in hires)
  • ear[th]phones: Headphones

Structural design

Made entirely of fresh-fibre paperboard, the two-part package comprises a slipcase with an inlay constructed to accommodate the product inside. One goal of design was to save on material, with the overall dimensions being reduced to the absolute minimum required to protect and nest the product.

Anti-counterfeiting

To protect this line of sample products against counterfeiting and theft, security seals are integrated to provide tamper evidence and proof of authenticity. They protect customers and brand owners against counterfeiting, and wholesalers and retailers against theft at the point of sale.

Print finishing (folding carton & blister pack)

  • Cold foil: Fine, glossy-green lines of the leaf contours
  • Hybrid textured and gloss lacquer: Subdued glossy structure of the leaves

Print finishing (folding carton & blister pack)

  • Hot foil embossing: “better” lettering and “b” logo
  • Blind embossing: “human” lettering and “h” logo on earbuds
  • Gloss lacquer: Earbuds
  • Gloss & textured lacquer: Background is smooth to the touch

 

Blister coating

Blister coating suitable for

  • Paperboard-paperboard seal
  • Direct food contact
  • Inline process with printing inks

 

 

Production and efficiency

If packaging is to be made to eco-friendly standards, consideration must also be given to the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of the overall production process, as well as the choice of inks, coatings, additives and print finishing materials. These packaging samples were made exclusively from products manufactured by state-of-the-art production systems, guaranteeing the use of renewable energies, the lowest possible CO2 emissions and the highest level of occupational safety.

The packaging is designed to be produced at the same level of quality as conventional packaging, but using energy-saving, mercury-free and ozone-free UV LED technology.

Efficient and eco-friendly production

The packaging was produced by Model Kramp GmbH in Hanau, Germany.

Model Kramp uses state-of-the-art printing and print finishing technologies and operates one of the world’s most high-tech production facilities for exclusive cosmetic and perfume packaging.

At its new building in Hanau’s «Amerikafeld» business district, the company sets high standards in energy consumption, climate protection and work environment.

Model Kramp has been certified to a total of nine different management systems, including ISO 50001 Energy Management and ISO 14001 Environmental Management. Thanks to the support of ClimatePartner, the entire production process was also climate-neutral.

Model Kramp GmbH

Recycling

The basis for good recycling is a monomaterial design.

Hot foil stamping and cold foil printing products are fully deinkable and recyclable. What is actually applied in these processes is an extremely thin, aluminium layer just 0.00002 mm thick. The PET film that is involved remains behind in the production shop and can be recycled.

Similarly, the UV process is no obstacle to recycling.

 

 

Offset print, hot-& cold foil embossing, blind embossing, hybrid varnish

 

Offset print, hot foil embossing, blind embossing, hybrid varnish, blister coating