17. Providing Instructions for Product and Packaging Use, Reuse and End-of-Life Management 

    17. Fornire istruzioni per l 'uso, il riutilizzo e la gestione del fine vita di prodotto e confezione

    Packaging provides operational guidance on the use, reuse and end-of-life management of both content and container throughout the product system life cycle
    Il packaging fornisce indicazioni operative su uso, riutilizzo e gestione del fine vita del contenuto così come del contenitore, lungo tutto il ciclo di vita del sistema-prodotto
    Impact
    ProductEnd-UserEnvironment
    Bibliography
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    Smart solution
    Humidity SensorTemperature SensorFreshness IndicatorTime Temperature Indicator (TTI)Cloud ComputingIoT (Internet of Things )NFC TagsBarcodeQR-CodeDigital WatermarkWebAR codeAI and Machine Learning
    Case Studies
    Cif EcorefillSparkle CPGRedken in HomeMedical Prescription by Faller
    Description
    In a complex and interconnected consumer context, where habits increasingly converge with multi-channel communication, packaging can become an active tool for information, orientation and sustainability. Through clear and accessible instructions, it can support the user in opening, using, storing or reusing the product and its packaging correctly, and in the responsible management of disposal. By integrating visuals, digital codes, interactive content and inclusive languages, packaging improves the user experience, increases perceived value and promotes a lower environmental impact. This helps to promote circular economy practices and sustainable design approaches.
    Description

    Objectives
    • Guides the user in the correct use of the product and its packaging 
    • Provide clear, updatable disposal instructions aligned with local regulations 
    • Communicate essential information in a concise, accessible, and inclusive manner 
    • Supports user interaction through visual, multimedia, and multisensory languages 

    Objectives

    Operational
    1. 1. Clarify the use of the product and packaging 
      It is essential to provide simple and understandable instructions that clearly explain how to open, reseal, use or store the packaging and product, minimizing ambiguity and frustration. The use of universal icons and intuitive visual language helps to overcome cultural and language barriers, while digital supporting content, such as video tutorials, infographics or interactive demos, can expand and adapt communication across different channels. The tone and format should consider different user profiles, including simplified or inclusive versions for those with cognitive or language impairments. 

    1. 2. Supports end-of-life management 
      Packaging must facilitate responsible end-of-life behaviour by offering clear guidance on how to dispose of or recover its components. It should indicate whether the packaging is reusable, reusable, recyclable, or compostable, and specify the correct material composition and separation methods using standardized color codes and icons. Dynamic or location-specific updates can be provided via links or digital codes linked to municipal waste services or dedicated applications. 

    1. 3. Promoting reuse and second life 
      Encouraging users to recognize the post-use value of packaging can increase engagement and reduce waste. Creative or functional reuse suggestions, accompanied by inspirational visual examples or videos, can transform packaging into an educational or playful object. Gamified or narrative-based approaches can further motivate users to rethink their packaging use after the initial product lifecycle. 

    1. 4. Use inclusive, multisensory communication 
      To ensure broad accessibility, instructions should use a combination of visual, tactile, and auditory cues. The design language must be consistent, readable and inclusive, complemented by tactile features such as texture, relief or guide cuts to support physical interaction. Audio or video versions of instructions, accessible via smartphone, can expand accessibility for visually impaired or non-native speakers. 
    Operational

    Checklist

    1. 1. Clarity of instructions 
      – Are the operating instructions clearly visible and easy to understand? 

    1. 2. Use directions  
      – Does the packaging provide information on how to open, store or reseal it? 

    1. 3. End-of-life support  
      – Is the user guided in the responsible disposal of packaging components? 

    1. 4. Multi-channel communication  
      – Are visual, symbolic, or multimedia languages used to convey information? 

    1. 5. Digital accessibility  
      – Are there alternative or digital ways to access instructions? 

    1. 6. Second-life stimulation 
      – Does the packaging suggest or stimulate creative or functional reuse? 

    Checklist