Data relating to Sachet Scoping Review

Single-portion multi-layer sachets are a popular packaging format for food, home and self-care products in low-income countries. Sachet waste is non-recyclable, and visibly litters land, freshwater and ocean environments, particularly in Southeast Asian countries described as having a ‘sachet economy’. As annual sales approach 1 trillion, we ask whether low levels of research on sachets and the sachet economy could contribute to misinformation about environmental and socioeconomic damage and a lack of policy action to reduce sachet use. Based on the PRISMA-ScR method, our scoping review included novel comparative analyses of multiple exclusion screenings and a bespoke waste hierarchy for literature analysis to reveal how information available to stakeholders changes as criteria are tightened. We found little empirical research, with knowledge gaps often addressed by Institutions and NGOs, particularly regarding alternatives to the sachet economy at the top of the waste hierarchy. Policymakers and consumers in the Philippines and Indonesia were the most common target audience and geographical context. A high proportion of grey literature and inconsistent terminology may introduce the potential for bias and reduced impact. Our research highlights the urgency of further research into social and environmental impacts of the sachet lifecycle and alternatives such as refill.