Monday, February 23, 2026

Reduction, Reuse, Transparency: The Post-Recycling Era According to Mintel

Recycling as a solution for packaging end-of-life is losing credibility, according to Mintel. Consumers are increasingly aware of the limitations of this model, and the research firm’s latest trend report explores what this shift means for the future of the sector.

Attention is now turning to other levers. According to Mintel’s Global Packaging Predictions 2026 report, the future of packaging will rely more heavily on material reduction, reuse, and “radical transparency.” Consumers are becoming more conscious that the majority of plastics are not actually recycled at scale. The idea of recycling as a simple and effective solution is gradually losing ground.

A lack of adequate infrastructure, the phenomenon of downcycling, and the realities of waste exports have all eroded trust. This situation is fueling what the report describes as “recycling fatigue,” a trend expected to intensify in the coming years.