Packaging Solutions for Businesses
What are the top packaging priorities for business?
Well, according to Ubuntoo, an environmental database, the top searches in 2023 were:
- Reducing plastic packaging
- Increasing recycling rates
- Ways packaging can support supply chain efficiency
The move away from plastic packaging is further incentivised, as the UK Government is increasing Plastic Packaging Tax rates from 1 April 2024.
What is Ubuntoo?
Ubuntoo is an AI platform which aims to accelerate positive environmental action. The team behind it believe that shared intelligence and collaboration are necessary to achieve global targets.
By collating information on successful schemes, products and packaging the platform can become a hotbed of ideas. When global businesses and organisations have access to this insight, they can fast-track efforts to reduce emissions, lower water and energy use and minimise waste.
Reducing Plastic Packaging
It is interesting that of all the actions that can be taken, reducing plastic packaging is the top search. Media coverage of plastic bottles piling up in rivers, streams and seas across the world has certainly encouraged many shoppers to seek out brands that have switched to alternative packaging materials.
The ban on plastic packaging for fruits and vegetables came into force in France on 1 January. The outcome of this move will be monitored by other European Governments. In a deal made in November, exports of waste plastic to non-OECD countries will be banned. This demands radical action to reduce single-use plastic production and invest in local recycling facilities.
In the UK, Wrap is calling for 30% of fruit and veg to be sold loose by 2025, rising to 50% by 2030. This is currently being considered by the Government.
Fortunately, a growing number of commercially viable, plastic alternatives are available on the market. Local packaging manufacturers can advise on packaging materials, designs and finishes that work for your products.
