Comparing Sustainability Assessment Software for Packaging: A Conceptual Framework : A Multiple Case Study

Abstract: As sustainability becomes an increasingly critical consideration for businesses, the need for effective sustainability assessment tools and software has grown substantially. This master thesis aims to address this problem by exploring various available tools on the market which are used to measure the sustainability impact of packaging solutions and materials used in their production. The primary objective of the current work is to develop a comprehensive framework that evaluates sustainability assessment solutions based on the level of comprehensiveness and usability they possess by applying the context of small and medium-sized businesses. The findings reveal four distinct clusters within the framework: Good output, Best practice, Easy-to-use, and Best avoided. Each cluster represents a combination of comprehensiveness and usability characteristics, offering insights into the strengths and limitations of various tools. Additionally, the study identifies key factors that contribute to the comprehensiveness and usability of these tools, such as data requirements, user involvement, and assessment functionalities. The study can be used to assist organizations in making informed decisions when selecting sustainability assessment tools, while the taxonomy and the proposed framework would allow businesses to choose tools which align with their specific needs and goals, thereby facilitating effective assessments and driving sustainable change forward. Lastly, the study highlights the importance of considering the trade-off between usability and comprehensiveness, helping organizations find a balance in the software that aligns with their strategic objectives.