Mapping the potential of smart packaging for sustainable transition in the fashion industry

This paper investigates the role of smart packaging technologies as enablers of sustainability and circularity within the fashion supply chain. The study aims to map the current state of digital packaging solutions across industries to identify their potential applications and benefits in fashion. The fashion industry represents a heavy burden in terms of environmental impact produced by the intensive consumption of raw materials and the substantial volume of waste generated across product life cycles. Moreover, the globalised and fragmented nature of the fashion supply chain enhances complexity and hinders transparency, making circular transformation particularly difficult to manage. The paper is organised as follows: first, a literature review and a case study analysis outline the development and use of smart packaging technologies in sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Next, a policy analysis highlights the evolving European regulatory framework, emphasising how digital integration in packaging aligns with broader sustainability goals like the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan. Through this multi-dimensional approach, the study identifies key opportunities for smart packaging to enhance transparency, product traceability, consumer engagement, and lifecycle management in fashion. The paper concludes by discussing future research directions and the transformative potential of smart packaging in supporting a sustainable transition within fashion supply chains. This work contributes to the dialogue on digital innovation and circular economy strategies, offering insights for designers, manufacturers, and policymakers aiming to leverage packaging as a catalyst for sustainability in fashion.