Packaging of product has become one of the hottest environmental issues in recent years.

From being an apparently innocuous and functional part of a product, with nostalgic associations for many of us, it has been transformed into a controversial component of the marketing process -one which is increasingly required to justify its existence.

We have all started to wonder if products have too much packaging so here are some brilliant examples of what manufacturers are doing about it.

Resolving the vital role of packaging with its impact on our world is at the heart of this important new exhibition at London's Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising.

Drawing on the museum's extensive collection, the exhibition explains the importance of packaging, how it has developed over the years, the serious challenges it now presents, and how manufacturers, retailers and designers are working together to adopt a more environmentally friendly approach.

The exhibition includes innovative solutions from around the world to show what the future of packaging holds in store.

Transport
Train: Paddington. Tube: Notting Hill Gate, also nearby Westbourne Park and Ladbroke Grove
Bus: 23, also nearby 7, 28, 31, 36, 52, 70 and 238.

Opening hours
Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 6pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm, closed Mondays except Bank Holidays.
Last entry is 45 minutes before closing.

Admission
Adults £5.80, Children (7-16) £2.00, Family £14.00, Concessions £3.50. Group discount 10% (groups of 10 or more, pre-booking appreciated).

Other information
Disabled access, tea-room and shop, school groups welcome, please call the Museum for further information.
The Museum is located two minutes walk from the world-famous Portobello Road.