Sustainable Label Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

The global sustainable label market, valued at USD 1.65 Billion in 2024. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.20% from 2025 to 2034, reaching approximately USD 2.74 Billion by 2034, as labels encourage eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled and biodegradable materials, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint of products.

Global Sustainable Label Market Report Summary

Description

Value

Base Year

USD Billion

2024

Historical Period

USD Billion

2018-2024

Forecast Period

USD Billion

2025-2034

Market Size 2024

USD Billion

1.65

Market Size 2034

USD Billion

2.74

CAGR 2018-2024

Percentage

XX%

CAGR 2025-2034

Percentage

5.2%

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by Region

Asia Pacific

7.0%

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by Country

India

7.2%

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by Country

Saudi Arabia

6.0%

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by Printing Technology

Screen

5.9%

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by Application

Food and Beverages

6.0%

Market Share by Country 2024

Canada

1.8%

Global Sustainable Label Market Growth

By 2026, global food production is projected to reach approximately USD 4.5 trillion. With the expansion of the food and beverage sector, key players in the market are adopting sustainable manufacturing methods to attract environmentally conscious consumers. In the food and beverage sector, sustainable labels serve to communicate a product's environmental, ethical, and health-related qualities. These labels emphasise aspects such as eco-friendly packaging, the inclusion of organic or locally sourced ingredients, and certifications like fair trade or carbon neutrality. This information empowers consumers to make informed and environmentally conscious purchasing choices.

The growing focus on environmental sustainability has greatly impacted the market for eco-friendly labels, leading to increased demand in the packaging sector across various sectors, especially in food and beverages. These eco-friendly labels are not only fully biodegradable but also feature recyclability and reusability, all designed to reduce environmental impact. As a result, both manufacturers and consumers are increasingly inclined to adopt eco-friendly labels worldwide. Additionally, rising per capita income and a commitment to improving quality of life have significantly boosted the sales of these labels. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing technology have allowed businesses to produce durable and practical paper labels. Sustainable paper labels offer design versatility and accommodate multicolour printing, which is expected to further accelerate growth in the sustainable label market.

Key Trends and Developments

The global sustainable label market growth can be attributed to consumer demand for transparency, rising regulatory and policy support, and corporate responsibility and branding.

October 2024

UPM Raflatac, a global leader in sustainable labelling solutions, expanded its direct thermal (DT) linerless label range with the launch of the OptiCut™ WashOff solution. This new linerless label was designed for returnable and reusable plastic food containers, including PP, HDPE, and PET crates used in food logistics. Now available to customers, the launch of this label responded to the growing demand for innovative plastic packaging solutions driven by evolving regulations and consumer preferences.

March 2024

During the Change Now international exhibition focused on ecological transition, held at the Grand Palais Éphémère in Paris from March 25 to 27, 2024, Sephora announced the global launch of its two new eco-responsible labels: "Clean at Sephora" and "Planet Aware at Sephora." These labels are designed to inform customers about the formulations and ingredients of products, as well as the environmental commitments of certain partner brands affiliated with Sephora. As consumers become more discerning in their product choices, initiatives like these are essential in guiding them toward decisions that benefit both their personal well-sbeing and the health of the environment.

March 2024

Siemens launched its sustainability product label initiative, called Siemens EcoTech, which sets a new standard for transparency in the sector. The Siemens EcoTech label offers customers detailed insights into product performance based on specific environmental criteria. Initially, this label covered a range of products from Siemens' portfolio related to infrastructure and industrial applications. In the future, the Siemens EcoTech label will broaden to include additional product families that meet the stringent standards established.

November 2023

Avery Dennison, a global leader in the production and distribution of pressure-sensitive adhesive materials such as self-adhesive labels, apparel branding labels and tags, RFID inlays, and specialised medical products announced the introduction of four new labelling papers made from recycled materials and alternative fibres, specifically aimed at the premium market segment. These products cater to various sectors, including wines and spirits, craft beverages, gastronomy, and beauty and fragrances, and are available in the EMENA region (Europe, Middle East, and North Africa). This initiative aligns with the sector’s regulations, corporate sustainability objectives, and the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging and labelling solutions.

Rising Consumer Demand for Transparency

Consumers are increasingly emphasising sustainability in their buying choices, resulting in a greater demand for products that feature credible sustainability certifications. Labels such as organic, fair trade, and carbon-neutral provide clarity regarding the environmental and social effects of products. As public awareness of environmental and ethical concerns rises, consumers are keen to make purchases that reflect their values, thereby pressuring companies to adopt recognised sustainable certifications. This growing demand is propelling the global market for sustainable labels and motivating more businesses to seek certification.

Stringent Regulatory and Policy Support

Governments and international bodies are implementing regulations that promote or require the use of sustainable labels. Policies concerning environmental standards, carbon emissions, and waste management are encouraging companies to adopt certified labels to ensure compliance and facilitate market entry. For instance, the European Union's Green Deal and various national sustainability initiatives are driving companies to obtain environmental certifications, which in turn boosts the adoption of sustainable labels. This regulatory backing is a crucial factor in fostering sustainable label market growth. Through policies aimed at environmental standards, carbon emissions reduction, and waste management, companies are motivated to pursue certifications that not only ensure compliance but also enhance their market presence.

Rising Emphasis on Corporate Responsibility and Branding

In response to increasing pressure to showcase their commitment to sustainability, many companies are embracing sustainable labels to improve their brand image and attract eco-conscious consumers. These labels serve as evidence of a company's ethical and sustainable practices, enhancing consumer trust and loyalty. The sustainable label market revenue is impacted as businesses view sustainable labeling not just as a means of complying with regulations, but also as a strategic marketing tool to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. By embracing sustainability as a core value and effectively communicating this commitment through labelling, organisations can not only meet the growing demands of consumers but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

Increasing Focus on Environmental and Social Effects

The heightened global consciousness regarding environmental challenges, including climate change, resource scarcity, and social disparities, is fuelling the demand for sustainable certifications. Consumers, investors, and businesses are placing greater importance on the social and environmental consequences of their decisions, resulting in a wider acceptance of certified sustainable products. Certifications that showcase compliance with ethical, eco-friendly, and socially responsible criteria offer stakeholders a reliable means to make informed choices, thereby contributing to the expansion of the sustainable label market.

Global Sustainable Label Market Trends

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a rising consumer demand for transparency and eco-friendly products. As sustainability becomes a key priority across various sectors, companies are adopting labels that reflect their dedication to environmental responsibility, including certifications like biodegradable, recyclable, and carbon neutral. These labels are particularly popular in sectors such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and fashion, where consumers are increasingly inclined to select products with verified sustainability credentials.

Additionally, technological advancements are crucial, as innovations in materials and printing methods enable the production of more environmentally friendly and efficient labels. The emergence of smart labels, featuring RFID and QR codes, is enhancing consumer engagement by offering instant access to information about a product's sustainability efforts. Furthermore, regulatory pressures are pushing companies to adopt sustainable practices, including responsible labelling, to comply with environmental regulations. As global awareness of environmental issues continues to rise, the demand for sustainable labelling solutions is expected to grow, shaping market trends and consumer preferences.

Global Sustainable Label Industry Segmentation

The EMR’s report titled “Global Sustainable Label Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Breakup by Label Type

• Pressure Sensitive Labels (PSL)
• Shrink Labels
• Stretch Labels
• Wet Glue Labels
• Others

Breakup by Material

• Paper

  

Semi-gloss Matte Paper

  

Vellum Paper

  

Direct Thermal Label Paper

  

Others

• Plastic

  

PLA

  

PHB

Breakup by Technology

• Flexography
• Digital
• Gravure
• Screen
• Offset

Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverages
• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Pharmaceuticals
• Clothing and Apparels
• Chemicals
• Others

Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

CAGR 2025-2034 - Market by

Country

India

7.2%

Saudi Arabia

6.0%

Mexico

5.9%

Japan

5.9%

Canada

5.4%

USA

XX%

UK

4.8%

Germany

XX%

Italy

XX%

China

XX%

Australia

XX%

Brazil

XX%

France

4.6%

Global Sustainable Label Market Share

Based on the material, the market is primarily driven by paper labels, which are biodegradable, recyclable, and often sourced from renewable materials, making them an environmentally friendly option. Their natural composition helps minimise environmental impact, while advancements in sustainable manufacturing further boost their appeal. Paper labels also offer design versatility, supporting multicolour printing and catering to eco-conscious consumers. In September 2024, Avery Dennison introduced its first range of INGEDE12-certified paper label materials, improving the recycling quality of paper and cardboard. The range, featuring innovative adhesive technology, enhanced recycling yields for new paper and cardboard production, including sustainable options like rVellum facestock made from 100% recycled materials, aligning with EU recycling standards.

Plastic labels are durable, water-resistant, and offer a high-quality finish, making them ideal for products requiring durability and protection. Although traditionally less sustainable, advancements in biodegradable and recyclable plastic materials are gaining traction, enabling brands to maintain performance while prioritising environmental responsibility. In June 2022, UPM Raflatac became the first company to incorporate Ocean Bound Plastics (OBP) waste into its Ocean Action labels. These labels, produced using a mass balance approach, are made from plastic recovered from areas vulnerable to ocean pollution. Developed through collaboration, this innovation supports recycling objectives and is well-suited for FMCG packaging.

Leading Companies in the Global Sustainable Label Market

Key players in the sustainable label market are concentrating on adopting environmentally friendly production methods to gain a competitive advantage. Key stakeholders are prioritising the development of sustainable labels to address the rising consumer demand for eco-conscious products, comply with stricter environmental regulations, and improve brand reputation.

CCL Industries Inc.

Founded in 1951 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, CCL Industries is a prominent global leader in the label and packaging sector. The company is dedicated to offering innovative and sustainable labeling solutions across multiple sectors, including consumer goods, healthcare, and automotive, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship.

Avery Dennison Corp.

Established in 1935 and headquartered in California, United States, Avery Dennison is a key manufacturer of labellling and packaging materials. Renowned for its sustainable and smart labelling solutions, the company emphasises advanced technologies designed for the retail, automotive, and food sectors, while maintaining a focus on environmental sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Asteria Group (Berkshire Labels Ltd.)

Founded in 1985 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, Asteria Group, which includes Berkshire Labels Ltd., specialises in high-quality label printing and packaging. The company is dedicated to offering sustainable label solutions and prioritises innovation, customer service, and environmental sustainability in its operations.

Crown Labels Mfg Co. Ltd.

Established in 1982 and headquartered in Thailand, Crown Labels Mfg Co. Ltd. produces a wide range of labels, including eco-friendly options. The company is committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions and serves various sectors, such as food and beverage, cosmetics, and retail, by utilising advanced printing technologies.

Other major players in the sustainable label market are Multi-Color Corporation, KP Holding GmbH & Co. KG, SATO Holdings Corp., Elevate Packaging, Inc., Brady Corp., and Weber Packaging Solutions, Inc. among others.