Innovative Sustainable Packaging Solutions: December 2023

As we reflect on the past year, it's clear that major companies have recognized the importance of sustainable packaging and materials. Throughout 2023, these companies have turned to the pulp and paper industry for innovative solutions that will help create a greener future. Let's take a closer look at some of the impressive innovations that have been released this last month.

Quaker Oats Switches to Paper Packaging for Porridge Pots

Quaker Oats, the leading porridge brand in the UK, has recently introduced its paper packaging for their entire range of porridge pots. This innovative change eliminates the need for the plastic inner packaging that had to be separated from the card sheath for recycling. With the switch to paper, consumers now only have to rinse and recycle a single piece of packaging, simplifying the process significantly. Not only does this new packaging make it easier for consumers, but it also helps Quaker Oats reduce their use of virgin plastic by up to 200 tons per year. Read more at packagingnews.co.uk

Amazon Shifts to Recyclable Shipping Packages in Europe

In an exciting move towards sustainability, Amazon has revealed that all of its shipping packaging for deliveries in Europe is now recyclable. This includes cardboard boxes, bags, and envelopes, making it easier for customers to dispose of their packaging responsibly. This initiative extends to items sold by Amazon as well as those sold by partner sellers in the Fulfillment by Amazon program. Customers can now expect to receive their orders in soft paper bags, cardboard envelopes, and corrugated parcels, all of which can be easily recycled through selective sorting.

Pat Lindner, Vice President of Mechatronics and Sustainable Packaging at Amazon, emphasized the company's commitment to sustainable development and stated that they will continue to invest in innovative technologies, machine learning techniques, and eco-friendly materials to optimize their packaging processes for the benefit of both customers and the planet. Read more at packworld.com

LEGO Group Moves to Paper-Based Bags for LEGO Boxes

The LEGO Group is taking significant steps towards sustainability by phasing out single-use plastic in their LEGO boxes. They are replacing plastic pre-pack bags with new bags made from paper sourced from Forest Stewardship Council certified forests and FSC-controlled wood. This transition to paper-based bags has already begun in Europe and Asia, and will continue in the Americas markets by 2024. In addition, LEGO Retail Stores will offer paper-based containers for their Pick & Build walls, replacing plastic cups. Furthermore, all packaging for LEGO Minifigures collectibles has been switched from single-use plastic to recyclable cardboard boxes. Read more at webwire.com

Cepi Publishes List of EU Policies to Achieve Climate Neutrality in Europe 2050

Cepi, the representative body for pulp and paper manufacturers, alongside partners from the clean energy sector, has recently released a comprehensive list of EU policies aimed at achieving climate neutrality in Europe by 2050. This ambitious plan focuses on various key areas, including ensuring the industry's access to fossil-free energy for both power and heat, promoting on-site renewable energy production to contribute to Europe's energy self-sufficiency, encouraging voluntary industry integration to reduce emissions at a system level, providing financial instruments to mitigate risks associated with industrial investments, and fostering innovation in energy efficiency and renewable energy integration within industrial processes. These policies highlight the industry's commitment to sustainable development and its crucial role in combating climate change. Read more at paperfirst.info

Heinz Joins Hands with Pulpex to Develop Paper-Based Bottle for Tomato Ketchup

Heinz has partnered with Pulpex to create an eco-friendly bottle for its condiments, including the iconic Heinz Tomato Ketchup. This innovative bottle is made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, making it fully recyclable. By collaborating with Pulpex, Heinz is leading the way in sustainable packaging solutions and is the first sauce brand to explore the potential of Pulpex's paper bottle packaging. Currently, a prototype is being developed to test the feasibility of using this bottle for Heinz Tomato Ketchup and other packaging formats. Read more at supermarketnews.com.nz

APCO and AIP Join Hands to Strengthen Packaging Sustainability

APCO and AIP have joined forces in a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding, forging a strategic partnership that seeks to enhance packaging and sustainability expertise in the Australia and New Zealand area. This collaboration will offer sustainability professionals valuable evidence to support their packaging and sustainability credentials. Read more at thepackagingportal.com

Mondi Offers Corrugated Packaging to Replace EPS in White Goods

Mondi presents an innovative solution to combat marine plastic pollution by offering manufacturers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to expanded polystyrene (EPS) microplastics. By partnering with Mondi, manufacturers can create fully recyclable packaging solutions while streamlining their packaging processes. This custom-fit, 100% paper-based industrial packaging provides optimal protection for white goods and electronic equipment.

Additionally, Mondi's Snug&Strong packaging is delivered flat, minimizing storage and transportation costs compared to traditional EPS packaging. With this sustainable packaging option, Mondi meets consumer demands for eco-friendly choices and helps manufacturers adhere to upcoming legislative requirements. Read more at mondigroup.com

Supermarket Chain Aldi Moves to Cardboard Packaging for Four-Pack Beer and Cider Products

Aldi, the popular supermarket chain, is taking another step towards sustainability by eliminating plastic packaging from its own-brand four-pack beer and cider products. Instead of using traditional plastic shrink wrap and rings, Aldi has opted for cardboard packaging that can be easily recycled at home. This initiative follows Aldi's recent transition to fully recyclable packaging for their own-brand handwash products. By making these changes, Aldi is demonstrating its commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting eco-friendly alternatives. Read more at packaging-gateway.com

Researchers Develop Bioactive Paper to Stop Fruit Loss in Transport

Researchers at the University of Concepción, in collaboration with the forestry industry, have made a groundbreaking development in the form of Bioshield Pack. This innovative bioactive paper, made from cellulose pulp, Monterey pine, and algae, possesses remarkable properties that prevent the growth of microorganisms responsible for fruit loss. With its antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal capabilities, this bioactive paper is a game-changer in the fruit export industry. Trials conducted on apples and grapes have shown that the use of bioactive paper reduces fruit losses by up to 65% during storage and transportation. This project showcases the feasibility of producing reels of bioactive algal paper under real conditions, opening up new possibilities for sustainable fruit packaging. Read more at fruitnet.com

Henkel Uses Smurfit Kappa's SupplySmart for Dishwasher Tablet Pack Supply Chain

In a bid to offer a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging, Henkel, a leading consumer goods company, has teamed up with Smurfit Kappa. Together, they have introduced a compact and eco-friendly paper-based option for packaging dishwasher tablets. By utilizing Smurfit Kappa's SupplySmart, Henkel was able to create a digital model of its supply chain, with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions.

The revamped packaging design resulted in a remarkable 66% reduction in volume, leading to a 44% decrease in CO2 emissions during transportation. This innovative and sustainable solution not only facilitates easy handling but is also fully recyclable, further reinforcing Henkel's commitment to environmental responsibility. Read more at smurfitkappa.com

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