Aside from the problems with their powerpoint presentation, which got quite a few chuckles from the “designer” audience, it was a presentation about the possibilities we as designers can achieve if we make the effort. It’s important to lead our clients toward “green” packaging and printing even if they think it’s going to cost more, because it’s the right thing to do. Sometimes, depending on the item and the quantity, it may not cost more, so why not give it try.

Chris Hacker, who has been Johnson & Johnson’s Chief Design Officer for the past five years has overseen the application of sustainable design thinking and practices. In addition to building a 120-person think tank, where environmentally-conscious decisions are part of the process, he, along with the the rest of his team are implementing ideas with all sorts of products.

By simply changing the overall design so the product can be reused, eliminating part of the packaging which isn’t needed, or changing the printing techniques and inks, we can reduce the amount of paper or plastic being used and when you multiply that times the amount of products sold, that’s a lot of trees saved, and less waste.

We have the power as designers to reshape the way consumers see products, and can sometimes make a change that is environmentally sound and yet consumers don’t even notice. Most consumers are into being “green” and if they realize a product has changed to help the environment, like less packaging, or they can recycle it, they’re more likely to buy it and feel good about it.

From the Johnson & Johnson website about “Protecting the Environment”

“We set high standards for our operating companies in the area of environmental responsibility — striving for performance that does not merely comply with regulations but reduces our environmental impacts. We have a responsibility to take care of our planet and preserve its beauty, resources and strength for future generations.”

You can be sure with every project I work on, I’m committed to producing or printing it the “greenest” way and will work hard to convince my clients to do the same.