FIGR, Inc., a vertically-integrated legal Canadian cannabis company, announced today that significant changes are in its future regarding its product packaging, making it more sustainable. The decision to improve packaging follows consumer feedback on the sustainability and recyclability of packaging within the Canadian cannabis industry.

From August to November 2019, FIGR plans to phase in new packaging across its Craft product line that is intended to take up 50 per cent less physical space than current packaging. The reduction in packaging volume is expected to lessen the amount of shipping and fossil fuel consumption needed to transport the company’s products to retailers and consumers. The packaging improvements are expected to also reduce the primary package weight by more than 20 per cent and be comprised of 25 per cent recycled materials.

In December 2018, FIGR commissioned a consumer study of Atlantic Canadian residents that revealed 58 per cent of respondents are concerned with the amount of packaging used to distribute and sell cannabis. Since cannabis was legalized in Canada, sustainability has been an important point of discussion at FIGR.

“The consumer insights from our study showed us that 61 per cent of Atlantic Canadians surveyed are concerned about the recyclability and sustainability of cannabis packaging,” said Todd Duncan, Vice President Supply Chain, FIGR, Inc. “As FIGR grows, we continue to look for ways to optimize our operations. Working to make our packaging more environmentally friendly is a core responsibility and mindset.”

In response to the study’s results, FIGR is working with product innovation company Ahead of the Curve Group to make changes to its packaging to reduce the company’s impact on the environment, while maintaining the surface area required for regulatory information and branding. Changes to the packaging will also mean improvements to the efficiency of FIGR’s operations throughout its supply chain.

“Across the cannabis industry, packaging is larger than the product itself due to the regulatory requirements which mandate a specific amount of information must be on their packs,” said John Snow, Partner, Ahead of the Curve Group. “FIGR has taken significant steps to reduce their package sizing, use less material and maintain product integrity while remaining compliant to regulations.”

FIGR’s updated packaging for its Craft product line is intended to be made from plastic and be 100 per cent recyclable.

SOURCE FIGR Inc.