Conduct an interactive workshop introducing students to the core concepts of LCA. This will involve examining simplified LCA case studies of common products and their packaging, identifying "hotspots" of environmental impact (e.g., raw material extraction, manufacturing energy, end-of-life disposal), and understanding the scope of cradle-to-grave or cradle-to-cradle analysis. Students will engage in group discussions to identify environmental impacts for various packaging materials.

Facilitate student-led research seminars or presentations focusing on specific categories of sustainable materials. Students will individually or in small groups research and present on: Biomaterials: Mycelium, algae-based bioplastics, cellulose films, corn starch derivatives (PLA, PHA). Focus on their origin, properties, production processes, and various end-of-life pathways (e.g., home compostable, industrial compostable, marine biodegradable). Recycled Content Materials: Post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics (rPET, rHDPE, rPP), recycled paper and paperboard, recycled glass, recycled aluminum. Discuss the recycling process, challenges, benefits, and common applications. Innovative Natural Fibers: Hemp, bamboo, bagasse (sugar cane waste), agricultural waste byproducts. Explore their properties, sustainability advantages over traditional materials, and potential for molded packaging. Water-Soluble/Edible Films: Research novel packaging solutions that disappear or can be consumed. These seminars will involve critical analysis of data sheets, environmental certifications, and industry reports.

A hands-on design studio focused on the practicalities of packaging structure. Die-line Creation: Students will learn to interpret and create accurate 2D flat plans (die-lines) for various packaging forms (e.g., straight tuck boxes, reverse tuck boxes, mailer boxes, pillow boxes, custom fitments). Folding Techniques Exploration: Experiment with different folding mechanisms (e.g., various tucks, crash-lock bottoms, auto-lock bottoms, self-locking designs, interlocking tabs) to understand their structural benefits, material requirements, and assembly efficiency. Cardboard Engineering Challenges: Engage in challenges to design packaging that uses minimal material while maximizing structural integrity and product protection, often through intricate folds and clever interlocking. Software Introduction: Brief introduction to software for packaging design (e.g., ArtiosCAD, Adobe Illustrator with CAD plugins) for creating precise die-lines and visualizing flat patterns.

A workshop focused on the visual communication of sustainability. Green Messaging Principles: Discuss best practices for communicating sustainable attributes clearly and honestly, avoiding greenwashing. Iconography and Certifications: Understanding and appropriately using industry standard sustainability icons (e.g., Mobius loop, FSC, Compostable logos, USDA Biobased). Visual Storytelling: Explore how color, typography, imagery, and layout can convey a sustainable brand identity and educate consumers on proper disposal or reuse. Minimalist Design: Emphasize the concept of "less is more" in graphic design to reduce ink usage and promote a clean, eco-conscious aesthetic. Call to Action: Designing clear and compelling calls to action for consumers (e.g., "Recycle Me," "Compost This," "Refill and Reuse").

Practical hands-on sessions dedicated to developing precise fabrication skills. Manual Cutting & Scoring: Master techniques for using precision knives, rulers, and bone folders to achieve accurate cuts and crisp scores on various paper and board weights. Laser Cutting Fundamentals: Introduction to laser cutting technology for packaging, including safe operation, material compatibility, optimizing settings for different materials (e.g., paperboard, thin wood, some bioplastics), and generating suitable files from digital die-lines. Adhesive Application: Experiment with different types of sustainable adhesives (e.g., water-based glues, hot melt glues, starch-based glues) and techniques for neat and effective application. Assembly Practice: Repeated practice of assembling various packaging forms from flat die-lines, focusing on precision, speed, and clean finishes. Printing Techniques (Basic): Exploration of basic printing methods (e.g., inkjet, laser, or simple screen printing) for applying graphics and branding to prototypes using eco-friendly inks.

Conduct practical, hands-on simulations to evaluate packaging performance. Drop Test Station: Design and build a simple drop test apparatus to consistently drop prototypes from specified heights. Students will record results, analyze impact points, and assess product damage. Compression Test Setup: Utilize a simple weight application system or a calibrated spring scale to conduct compression tests on prototypes, measuring their crush resistance. Water Spritz/Submersion Tests: Assess water resistance and barrier properties of packaging materials by exposing them to controlled moisture. User Experience Testing: Conduct informal user tests to gather feedback on ease of opening, closing, handling, and understanding of disposal instructions. Data Recording & Analysis: Students will learn to systematically record test data, analyze results, and draw conclusions about the prototype's performance against specifications.

Engage in critical, open-ended discussions and debates. Case Study Analysis: Analyze real-world examples of product packaging, identifying instances of potential greenwashing (e.g., vague "eco-friendly" claims, excessive green imagery without substance) versus genuinely sustainable design. Ethical Considerations: Discuss the ethical responsibilities of designers and manufacturers in communicating environmental claims. Regulatory Frameworks (Simplified): Briefly introduce concepts like environmental labeling standards and consumer protection laws against misleading claims. Consumer Skepticism: Explore why consumers might be skeptical of green claims and how transparent, evidence-based communication can build trust. This activity encourages critical thinking, media literacy, and an ethical approach to sustainable design.