Accessible packaging for the blind and visually impaired: identifying needs and developing guidelines for a more inclusive design

Project title: Accessible packaging for the blind and visually impaired: identifying needs and developing guidelines for a more inclusive design

Call: Public call Problem-based learning of students in the work environment: economy, non-economy and non-profit sector in the local/regional environment 2024-2027 – 2nd opening 2025/2026

Pedagogical mentor of the project: assoc. prof. Simona Šinko, PhD

Local partner: Inter-municipal association of the blind and visually impaired Celje

Project duration: 1. 2. 2026 – 30. 6. 2026

Brief description of the content:

The project addresses the pressing need for accessible packaging for blind and partially sighted people, who often encounter obstacles in using products independently and safely. Although the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act (ZIMI) has stipulated the right to access information since 2010, this requirement has become even more binding with the Accessibility of Products and Services for Persons with Disabilities Act (ZDPSI) from June 2025. The ZDPSI explicitly stipulates that packaging and accompanying information must be accessible to persons with disabilities – legible, high-contrast, tactile or presented in alternative media. In this context, the project acts as support for the implementation of the law, as it identifies key needs and offers practical solutions through cooperation with blind and partially sighted users. The results will serve as a starting point for the preparation of guidelines that can help companies meet new legal requirements and avoid sanctions. In this way, the project not only contributes to greater social justice and sustainable development, but also to preventing abuse of exemptions due to alleged disproportionate burdens.