Japanese studio Nendo has designed Carton + Pump, an alternative to single-use plastic soap dispensers in the form of a recyclable paper carton that can be switched out and replaced.
Led by designer and architect Oki Sato, the studio's project aims to address both the potential hygiene issues of reusing soap dispensers while reducing the number of plastic containers that end up in landfills around the world.
The dispensers resemble milk cartons
Nendo plans to launch Carton + Pump by 2022. The soap-filled paper pouches resemble a milk carton and work with a reusable dispenser pump.
The paper carton can be turned upside-down and placed into a cap so that it stands upright. Then, like a straw for a portable juice pouch, the sharp end of the dispenser pump can pierce through its underside. Dispensers will be turned upside-down
"The top and bottom covers distribute the pressure of the pump being pressed repeatedly, making the carton less likely to collapse, and also preventing it from getting soft and mouldy in a washroom," said Nendo.

Replaceable paper cartons would prevent potential contamination. Studies have discovered that refillable soap dispensers can become a breeding ground for certain bacteria, defeating the object of hand-washing entirely.
As the carton sits upside-down, residual soap will collect in the centre of the carton's gable-top and be more easily caught by its dispenser pump than a standard flat-bottomed soap dispenser.
Foam or liquid soap will fil...