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Product Packaging by E-commerce Platforms: Impact of COVID-19 and Proposal for Circular Model to Reduce the Demand of Virgin Packaging

Author

Listed:
  • Tanya Arora

    (Delhi Technological University)

  • Sarvani Reddy Chirla

    (Delhi Technological University)

  • Nimisha Singla

    (Delhi Technological University)

  • Lovleen Gupta

    (Delhi Technological University)

Abstract

E-commerce packaging waste is a matter of concern, especially with the increasing popularity of online shopping due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This leads to the generation of a massive amount of e-commerce packaging waste as well as resource utilisation and CO2 emissions that go into the production of packaging. The aim of this study is to analyse the impact of COVID-19 on consumer trends in the e-commerce industry, quantitatively analyse the carbon emissions of packaging used, and present a circular model to reduce the demand for virgin packaging. Using a convenience sampling method, an online questionnaire was administered to 285 respondents to gather data on changes in shopping practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer awareness levels and observations on packaging materials, and practices employed by e-commerce companies. It was found that the number of orders placed per month increased after the onset of the pandemic and that most households dispose of packaging with household wastes as opposed to reusing or recycling. Primary data (study participants packaging waste production) in combination with secondary data (emission factors) was further used to calculate emissions due to mixed packaging waste, which came out to be 2,705.94 kg CO2e per metric tonne of waste produced. In addition, the paper presents a practical solution to reducing virgin packaging material production, as well as modifications in packaging used to ensure efficient working of the packaging reuse model when implemented by the e-commerce companies.

Suggested Citation

  • Tanya Arora & Sarvani Reddy Chirla & Nimisha Singla & Lovleen Gupta, 2023. "Product Packaging by E-commerce Platforms: Impact of COVID-19 and Proposal for Circular Model to Reduce the Demand of Virgin Packaging," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 3(3), pages 1255-1273, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:circec:v:3:y:2023:i:3:d:10.1007_s43615-022-00231-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s43615-022-00231-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Datt,Gaurav & Ravallion,Martin & Murgai,Rinku, 2016. "Growth, urbanization, and poverty reduction in India," Policy Research Working Paper Series 7568, The World Bank.
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