In a world faced with growing environmental challenges, businesses need to adopt responsible practices. Among these, paper packaging plays a crucial role as it aligns with eco-friendly principles. Furthermore, these sustainable development strategies not only help to preserve the environment but also reinforce communication based on a commitment to a circular economy.
The environmental challenges of plastic packaging: A threat to the planet and our health?
Although plastics have profoundly revolutionised industry, the management of their waste has become a major concern not only from an ecological point of view, but also from an economic and social one. The long-term aim is to reduce environmental impact and encourage efforts towards an ecological transition.
Slow decomposition and micro plastics
Plastic takes a long time to disappear, polluting soil, rivers, oceans and ecosystems. It is transformed into microplastics that are harmful to human and animal health.
Use of non-renewable resources
The production of plastics requires non-renewable resources such as oil and natural gas. Extracting and using these resources has serious environmental consequences. These include greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, deforestation and climate change.
Limited recycling opportunities
Recycling sectors suffer from poor organisation, with often limited outlets. This inefficiency compromises sustainable waste management and hampers efforts to promote a circular economy.
Faced with these challenges, regulations are being stepped up to encourage sustainable alternatives and reduce the carbon footprint.
Paper packaging is increasingly being encouraged and regulated by governments and authorities who are setting sustainable development targets. The aim is to promote more environmentally-friendly practices and reduce the harmful impact of plastic on the planet.
The AGEC Act
In France, the AGEC law Act, adopted on 10 February 2020, has five objectives:
– Moving away from disposable plastic
– Better informing consumers
– Combating waste and promoting solidarity-based reuse
– Taking action against planned obsolescence
– Better production.
The primary objective is to put an end to single-use plastic packaging by 2040!
European law on packaging
For its part, the EU plans to phase out certain single-use plastic containers by 2030.
The addition of PFASs to food packaging will be banned from 2026.
In 2029, a deposit system will be introduced. This will apply to plastic bottles and metal cans where the collection rate is less than 80%.
By 2035, 100% of packaging will have to be recycled, and by 2030 it will have to be designed in such a way that it can be recycled.
From 2030, plastic packaging will have to contain a proportion of recycled plastic. Measures will be taken to ensure that imported plastic packaging complies with EU standards.
The PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation
Approved on 04 March 2024, the PPWR is a law that will unify packaging management in Europe and improve the treatment of packaging waste.
It covers several areas:
- Recyclability
- Recycled raw materials
- Biobased raw materials
- Compostability
- Reduced weight and volume
- Reuse
- Labelling
In addition, specific restrictions are being introduced for certain types of plastic packaging, and technical documentation will be put in place to assess the compliance of packaging with the relevant requirements.
For full details of PPWR, click here.
Communication strategies: Reinforcing brand image through the circular economy
This regulatory pressure is pushing industries to commit to the circular economy. But there is another motivating factor: strengthening the communication strategy.
Responsible brand image
Adopting sustainable packaging demonstrates a company’s commitment to the environment and sustainable development. It strengthens the company’s brand image and ensures economic sustainability.
Transparency and communication of values
Sustainable packaging gives the company a chance to talk openly about the materials used, responsible production practices and sustainability efforts. This boosts consumer confidence.
Market differentiation
In a market focused on sustainable development, eco-friendly packaging can help a company stand out from its competitors.
Consumer engagement
Companies that adopt sustainable practices can attract and retain consumers who share these values. Consumers are often more inclined to support companies that demonstrate a commitment to the environment.
In fact, 75% of European consumers say that the environmental impact of packaging has an impact on their purchasing decision. In France, the figure is 77%.
Market expansion: Growing opportunities in transition packaging
The market for paper packaging continues to grow in the context of the energy transition for green growth.
The paper packaging market is expected to grow by 5% between 2024 and 2029, from USD 398.65 billion to USD 501.08 billion.
Find out more about The paper packaging boom !
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