Packaging as a working tool
01.Brief
A packaging solution that allows beneficial insects to be placed in a single gesture. BIOLINE AGROSCIENCE breeds and supplies beneficial insects to reduce the use of chemical inputs in greenhouses. Macrolophus pygmaeus, used in tomato crops, is packaged in a cardboard container filled with wood shavings, requiring multiple handling steps in the greenhouse. In a context of competitive pressure and reduced workforce, the challenge is to simplify implementation to save time and improve competitiveness.
02.Simplifying distribution in the greenhouse
The existing packaging requires operators to handle the insects to distribute them. We design a solution that allows the pack to be opened and a ready-to-use dose to be placed directly on a branch, ensuring controlled distribution. The gesture becomes single, simple and repeatable, adapted to greenhouse working conditions. Usage scenarios help anticipate each step, from injection to distribution, and adjust the solution before industrialization, ensuring a simple and controlled setup.
“A 20 cm³ container holds around a hundred Macrolophus pygmaeus, each measuring approximately 3 mm, under suitable conditions for 48 hours.”
03.Designing an industrializable and responsible solution
The solution integrates into breeding, sorting and injection processes without disruption or heavy investment. It must ensure a suitable living environment for the insects (breathability, nutrient supply, resistance to cold) while simplifying the packaging. We explore alternatives to plastic to reduce impact, including bio-based materials such as bagasse. Cardboard mock-ups allow rapid validation of opening, transport and filling principles. The selected material is compatible with existing processes, enabling production to be adapted without adding complexity.
04.Aligning teams and committing to the decision
Les concepts sont présentés aux équipes commerce, technique et production pour en confronter les implications opérationnelles. Les échanges permettent d’arbitrer une solution viable techniquement et économiquement. Cette décision collective engage l’adaptation du process de remplissage des dosettes, finalisée après près d’un an de mise au point. Elle implique également l’ajustement des gestes et des outils de production, pour intégrer la solution dans les conditions réelles d’exploitation.
Results
Positive impact
Facilitates the use of beneficial insects in agriculture
Simplicity
Single gesture for application
Satisfaction
Time savings, controlled distribution
Circularity
Reduced plastic use, bio-based materials
