2024 - PACKAGING DESIGN
SUPERVISED BY: MEL COOMBES Eco Toss was inspired by the need for not only sustainable and eco-friendly tampons but also eco-conscious packaging and a streamlined recycling process with zero fuss and waste. Since plastic-wrapped tampons became mainstream in the 1970s, there has been little innovation, possibly due to the taboo nature of the topic, societal neglect of female products, or the “medical” status necessitating “hygienic” packaging. Through my research, I noticed that the packaging of tampons often had little to do with their purpose and was covered with flowers and discreet words. I aimed for a design that was both obvious and viable. My challenge was to reclaim tampon packaging, making it more sustainable and addressing the issue of plastic wrappers.
For the competition category “Zero Waste Experience,” I targeted tampon users. I addressed the brief by analysing the tampon box usage process and identifying problems that hinder the ability to create a fully sustainable product. Typically, after unwrapping a tampon, the wrapper becomes litter. My packaging concept includes a concealed “bin” to solve this problem. After use, the entire box can be placed in paper recycling due to its mono-material approach.
A challenge I faced was making the box small enough for on-the-go usage, as during market research I discovered that a lot of people carry singular tampons in their bags, taken from a box at home. The final packaging is small enough to fit in your bag or in your pocket (smaller than an iPhone) and can still hold eight tampons.
Another challenge was designing surface graphics that appeal to consumers who prefer discreet packaging due to the topic’s taboo nature. I intentionally referenced periods in an obvious yet subtle manner through the graphics. For instance, I used a large uterus graphic that remains inconspicuous at first glance. The colour red, representing menstruation, was blended seamlessly with the rest of the surface graphics. The action of placing rubbish into the “bin” mimics tampon use, but this is not immediately apparent from the front view on a shelf.
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