Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-11 | Issue-05 | 429-437
Original Research Article
A System-Level Framework for Sustainable Packaging Design and Waste Management Integration
Ahsan Ali
Published : May 13, 2026
Abstract
The rapid growth of packaging consumption has increased waste generation and placed pressure on existing waste management systems. Current research often treats packaging design, material selection, and recycling processes as separate domains, which limits effectiveness in practical settings. This study aims to develop a system level framework that connects sustainable packaging design with waste management processes across the full lifecycle. The proposed framework integrates material selection, production, logistics, consumption, and recovery stages within a unified structure. It incorporates a feedback mechanism in which waste system performance informs design decisions, supporting continuous adjustment based on observed conditions. Lifecycle mapping and performance evaluation are used to examine interactions among system components and to assess the impact of design choices on recovery efficiency and environmental outcomes. The results show that packaging systems achieve higher recovery rates, lower contamination levels, and improved material compatibility when design parameters reflect waste processing capabilities and user behavior patterns. The study also identifies the role of stakeholder coordination in improving system performance. The framework provides a structured method for evaluating and improving packaging systems within practical constraints and offers a basis for decision-making in sustainable packaging design and waste management integration.