SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING
We endeavour to adopt a sustainable approach to new product development by embedding our ethos within the sourcing of key raw materials and commodities and promoting and rewardarding sustainable behaviour within our supply base. This involves increased use of life cycle inventory and life cycle assessment to help guide the use of packaging which reduces the environmental impact and ecological footprint.
The term ‘Sustainable packaging’ is a term that is evolving all the time. In brief, it is packaging that reduces environmental impact and ecological footprint.
We need to not just think about recycling, but to consider the full environmental impact of raw materials through to disposal.
At Allied International we review all elements from package design, choice of materials, processing, and life-cycle. Where possible we reduce packaging and use sustainable materials whilst maintaining the key functions of packaging.
Paper may sound a better option over plastic, but this is not always the case. For example, with food packaging, plastic helps preserve food which minimises waste, packaging, transportation and transport emissions.
New technologies in materials and improvements to recycling plants are constantly changing. We are always looking for new and innovative designs whilst ensuring we are using the best and latest sustainable materials fit for purpose.
Below is a brief overview of some of the materials we use.
PAPER
Paper is a sustainable, renewable and ecologically good choice for packaging because most paper and board is recyclable.
Advantages:
· Paper is commonly recycled
· Paper has far less of an impact on the environment than plastic
· Paper, with lamination, can act as a food barrier
Disadvantages:
· Paper can only be recycled 6 times
· Paper quality reduces when recycled
· For paper to work as a food barrier it requires a plastic lamination
· Some lamination and coatings prove difficult to recycle in certain areas
We source FSC paper, virgin paper and fully or partially recycled paper. Each have their own properties and benefits, for example:
Virgin Paper – 100% pure paper Key Points:
· Great for printing
· Good for food contact with no print
· Higher strength than recycled paper
· Taint and colour free
Recycled Paper Key Points
· Good for rigid boxes
· Not great for printing
· Not suitable for food contact
· Lower strength
· Tends not to be FSC - can’t always trace to source
FSC Key Points
· Sourced from a recognised supplier and traceable
· Mainly virgin paper as it is hard to track where recycled paper has come from
· More expensive