Next-Gen Designers Tackle Sustainable Packaging Challenges in Nefab's 2024 Competition

• Nefab, in partnership with San José State University, launched the second edition of the Sustainability Packaging Design Competition, challenging students to create sustainable packaging solutions for Cloud Network Routers.
• The winning team designed a lightweight fiber-based packaging solution that integrates an outer box and cushioning system into a single, foldable piece of corrugated board secured by locking tabs.
• The initiative highlights the growing need for sustainable packaging in the cloud networking industry, focusing on creating 100% curbside recycle solution free of unsustainable plastics and foam

San Jose, California, October 25, 2024 - Nefab, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has launched the second edition of its Sustainability Packaging Design Competition in partnership with San José State University (SJSU). This year, students from SJSU’s Packaging Degree program were invited to develop innovative, sustainable packaging solutions for Cloud Network Routers, a crucial component in cloud networking infrastructure.

"The first edition of the Sustainability Packaging Design Competition exceeded our expectations, and we are excited to continue this initiative with San José State University," said Romain Origano, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Nefab Americas. "This competition not only provides students with the opportunity to develop sustainable solutions but also allows them to gain valuable experience working with industry experts. We believe that the next generation of designers will play a crucial role in driving sustainability in industrial packaging."

Focus On Sustainability and Innovation

This year’s winning team, made up of students Yaoyao Li, Bea Nguyen and Yvonne Nguyen, created a sustainable packaging solution for Cloud Network Routers using fiber-based materials. Their design integrates an outer box and cushioning system into a single, foldable piece of corrugated board, secured by locking tabs that eliminate the need for glue or tape. Fiber-based solutions simplify the packaging’s end-of-life process, which is especially crucial in navigating the complexities of uncontrolled packaging flows, where materials are not consistently recycled. A panel of Nefab’s industry experts evaluated the student projects based on criteria such as sustainability, scalability, technical feasibility, and user experience. As part of their prize, the winning team will have the opportunity to intern at Nefab’s engineering center in San Jose to prototype their solution, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable packaging design and manufacturing.

"The Sustainability Packaging Design Competition embodies our mission to empower students by providing them with opportunities to innovate and create solutions for real-world challenges," said Edmund Tang, Director of Packaging, San José State University. "Through this competition, our students not only innovate but also contribute to the ongoing effort to reduce environmental impact, demonstrating the spirit of creativity and leadership that defines SJSU."

The competition underscores the growing demand for sustainable packaging within the cloud networking industry, where companies increasingly focus on eliminating unsustainable plastics and foam. Nefab's commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers ensures that packaging innovations will continue to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

We save resources in supply chains for a better tomorrow.

Představení firmy NEFAB

Nefab šetří životní prostředí a finanční zdroje optimalizací dodavatelských řetězců. Dosahujeme toho tak, že společně s našimi zákazníky inovujeme a vytváříme chytřejší obalová a logistická řešení, přičemž vždy respektujeme lidi a vysoké etické standardy. Tím přispíváme k lepším zítřkům pro naše zákazníky, společnost i životní prostředí. 

With more than 75 years of experience combined with competence and presence in more than 38 countries, we offer global solutions and local service worldwide to companies in industries such as Telecom, Datacom, Semicon, Energy, Healthcare, Mining & Construction, and LiB & E-mobility. Nefab Group has over 4900 employees spread across 38 countries, with a yearly turnover of 966 mln USD. The owners are the Nordgren/Pihl family and FAM AB, a privately owned holding company within the Wallenberg Ecosystem. 

www.nefab.com