Objectives and competences
The objectives of the course are:
• define the tasks and basic characteristics of packaging, present the role of packaging in logistics,
• present three levels of packaging and define their role in logistics,
• present various packaging materials,
• present packaging techniques and technologies and their impact on the lifecycle of products,
• define how to assemble packaging units into logistics units,
• present packaging labelling various labels, and necessary information that packaging of individual items must contain,
• presents GS1 standards, their usage, and obligations when using the standards,
• introduce waste and returnable packaging, as well as options for handling it,
• present the concept of reverse logistics,
• introduce 3D modelling of packaging prototypes and utilize 3D printers for 3D printing.
Competences that students acquire:
• are able to select the appropriate packaging for their intended use and logistics area,
• are familiar with the different types of packaging and know how to adequately secure primary packaging units with secondary and tertiary packaging,
• are aware of environmental impact of different packaging materials and types of packaging,
• are able to provide the necessary information on packaging at all levels,
• are aware of the importance of proper waste management and reverse logistics,
• present the use of 3D printing on the example of a packaging prototype.
Content (Syllabus outline)
Packaging and wrapping role
Levels of packaging and their role in logistics
Packaging materials and packaging techniques
Appropriate packaging selection
Planning of packaging and logistics units
Package labelling and GS1 standards
Waste and returnable packaging
Use of 3D printing on the packaging case
Learning and teaching methods
Lectures: students understand the theoretical frameworks of the course. Part of the lecture course is in a classroom while the rest is in the form of e-learning (e-lectures may be given via video-conferencing or with the help of specially designed e-material in a virtual electronic learning environment).
Tutorials: Students enhance their theoretical knowledge and are able to apply it. Part of the seminar is in a classroom while the rest is in the form of e-learning (e-tutorials may be given via video-conference or with the help of specially designed e-material in a virtual electronic learning environment).
Laboratory exercises: During laboratory sessions, students perform practical tasks using specialized equipment in the laboratory.
Intended learning outcomes - knowledge and understanding
Upon completion of the course, the student is able to:
• select appropriate packaging at all levels for specific items based on their intended use and logistics processes,
• list and describe packaging materials, understanding the impact of materials on the lifespan of the product,
• list and describe packaging techniques and technologies,
• adequately plan packaging and logistics units,
• properly equip packaging labels at different levels,
• recognize and describe important packaging labels, understand the significance of GS1 standards, and utilize GS1 standards in labelling various levels of packaging; understand the obligations when using the GS1 system,
• plan waste and returnable packaging management,
• plan reverse logistics phases for different levels of packaging,
• utilize modelling software to prepare a 3D model of packaging prototype,
• use a 3D printer for creating a prototype of packaging.
Intended learning outcomes - transferable/key skills and other attributes
Transferable/Key skills and other attributes:
They learn about recognized international packaging theory and trained to work individually. They are familiarized with the problems of packaging wrapping and the valid legislation. The learn about the requirements for use of all safety means and learn about the construction and technical solution and manage preparations for specific working conditions.
Readings
Ambrož, G., et al. (2019). Razvoj embalaže v krožnem gospodarstvu: priročnik. Fit media.
Radonjič, G. (2008). Embalaža in varstvo okolja: zahteve, smernice in podjetniške priložnosti. Založba Pivec.
Martini, M., Kovačič, B. & Konda, Z. (2014). Upravljanje globalnih preskrbovalnih verig: učbenik. GS1 Slovenija.
Palsson, H. (2018). Packaging logistics: understanding and managing the economic and environmental impacts of packaging in supply chains. Kogan Page
Yam. K. L. (Ed.). (2009). The Wiley encyclopedia of packaging technology (3rd ed.). J. Wiley & Sons.
Coles, R. & Kirwan, M. (Eds.). (2011). Food and beverage packaging technology (2nd ed.). Wiley.
Additional information on implementation and assessment Coursework 20%
Written examination 60%
Seminar paper 20%
