Smart packaging: Integrated solutions for circular and sustainable innovation

Smart packaging is redefining the role of packaging as an active, intelligent, and connected interface mediating relations among products, people, and ecosystems. Drawing on research and experimentation within the FuturE-Pack project, it is presented through conceptual definitions and mapped responsibilities that expand traditional functions to meet broader social, environmental, and systemic demands. Building on this framework, smart packaging integrates advanced devices, such as sensors, indicators, data carriers, emitters, absorbers, functional agents, barriers, and temperature control systems, with core digital technologies, including AI, IoT, blockchain, cloud computing, big data, immersive environments, 5G, and production related solutions such as additive manufacturing and robotics. These technologies extend packaging functions beyond containment and protection to ensure safety, authenticity, traceability, accessibility, and engagement, while enabling circular practices across the entire value chain. Applications analysed across eight domains (product, brand, supply chain, point of sale, end user, society, territory, and environment) are illustrated through case studies that show both practical implementations and systemic value in fostering inclusivity and reinforcing territorial identity. Alongside major opportunities, challenges remain around recyclability, interoperability, implementation costs, and ethical issues related to data and digitalisation. Purpose-driven design is essential to balance these benefits and limitations. Only through such an approach can smart packaging support circular and ethical transitions, while also advancing a transparent, inclusive, and sustainable packaging culture.