So it's appropriate I take this opportunity to raise the issue of packaging used before, after and particularly during the Games. We naturally support the London bid and will attend communication meetings hosted by the Associate Parliamentary Group for Design and Innovation for London 2012. However, the Olympics is about more than just sport. It is culture, and a great festival for opportunity, not just for participants but also for industries like our own. Whichever country ultimately hosts the next Olympics we must start planning the designs and the choice of packaging materials and recognise the need for minimisation and optimisation now.
The sheer volume of food and drink that will be consumed, the merchandise bought, and the programs read will generate vast amounts of waste. Now is the time to consider disposal and collection. Banks should be strategically positioned, suitably coloured to be noticed and not offend, colour coded to match the packaging sort logo, with simple logos easily understood by all nations.
However, we must also consider much more than recovery and disposal. Recently market research and consumer intelligence unit Mintel identified six key packaging-influenced international social trends, including the need for portability, convenience, health and well-being, and unique identification. The Olympics demand associated products meet all these requirements. Although we must clearly produce packaging which supports and enhances the event, we must also work in an optimised manner, especially as regards the type and amount of materials used. Look at the requirements, the options and consumer needs and design appropriately.
With good packaging design and production and well planned disposal we can make things happen, and not only remember the medals won and the closing ceremony but also walk the streets with pride the day after.
