The new EPR system holds producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, from production to disposal. By encouraging businesses to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging, the EPR scheme aims to foster more sustainable practices and reduce waste.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the objectives of EPR, which businesses will be responsible for EPR fees, when the scheme kicks into action and the potential costs to your business. We’ll also outline three practical steps your business should be taking to prepare.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulation

EPR is a new packaging regulation designed to shift the financial responsibility for waste management from local authorities to producers of packaging.

Businesses that handle packaging will now be required to cover the full costs of managing the waste they generate, rather than just a portion. This system incentivises businesses to adopt more eco-friendly packaging solutions and reduce the amount of material they place on the market.

The money raised is intended to be used to reform the way that household waste is collected and processed, improving recycling rates and reducing packaging waste.

Which businesses will be responsible to pay EPR fees

The EPR legislation will apply to businesses that supply or import packaging into the UK market. This doesn’t only include packaging companies who manufacture, sell or import packaging directly, but the companies who use packaging too.

Businesses who fall under the legislation are primarily providing goods and services where the packaging enters UK households. This includes brand owner packaging, packers and fillers placing goods into unbranded packaging, businesses who operate in online marketplaces and direct to consumer shops, and distributors of retail goods.

Fees will apply to companies who handle 50 tonnes or more of packaging and have a turnover of £2million or above.

Companies below this threshold will still be required to report their annual packaging use.

When does EPR legislation start?

Whilst the fees have been pushed out to late 2025, the responsibility of reporting packaging use is already live.  Companies should be logging their packaging usage for 2024 ready to report in early 2025. 

To comply businesses with need to be able to identify the portion of their packaging that is ultimately sent to UK households vs what is sent only other businesses. Both types of packaging will attract fees but those servicing the household market will be required to pay the most.

Penalties for non-compliance in packaging regulation schemes can be significant, ranging from fines to prosecution for serious breaches.  Therefore, it’s crucial for businesses to take immediate steps to assess their packaging, implement changes, and ensure they meet the new EPR requirements.

How much will EPR cost my business?

If your business falls within the category for EPR obligations, the costs will be dependent on the tonnage of material used.

In August 2024 the UK Government published illustrative fees by material type, whilst these fees have not been confirmed, they gave a lower, intermediate and higher projection of the costs that could be involved.

For example, the intermediate cost for each tonne of plastic used is projected at £515 per tonne.  So, if you use 15 tonnes of plastic, your end of year household cost will be £7,725 for this material alone.

The fees cover aluminium, fibre-based composites, plastic, paper or board, steel, wood, glass and other materials too. 

Three things your business should be doing to prepare for EPR legislation

We’ve pulled together three key tips to help you prepare for extended producer responsibility legislation:

1) Understand your packaging use and how the fees will apply to you: It’s important to understand what the impact will be to your business and whether you are eligible to pay the fees.  You can then devise a plan of attack to manage this additional cost.

Does your business supply packaging which will end up in UK households?

You need to understand:

• Which packaging lines are potentially going into UK households
• Which packaging lines are only going to other Businesses
• The weight and type of all packaging materials that you use

This will allow you to do a quick calculation of the impact to your business.  It also provides a framework for your packaging usage reporting.

Remember, you will need to submit detailed reports on the tonnage and material types on the packaging that you use.  You must maintain accurate records to demonstrate compliance and be ready for audit.

2) Switch to more environmentally friendly materials: EPR costs are calculated by material used, with materials which are more problematic being charged higher than easily recycled materials. By taking stock of the packs you are using and the materials they contain, you can devise a plan of attack to switch materials to more environmentally friendly choices.

3) Consider a packaging review to reduce your packaging weight: Reviewing your packaging SKUs may not sound like the most exciting way to spend your time so, consider a packaging review. A review can help to reduce packaging material use and packaging costs, as well as the overall packaging legislation fees to your business.

A packaging expert can review the products you are using and identify ways to take weight out of your packaging. If you are using 50 tonnes of packaging annually, you may be surprised by the impact that shaving a few grams off an individual pack can have on your total packaging weight and your future EPR fees.

How Macfarlane Packaging can help you with EPR legislation

Navigating the complexities of EPR and transitioning to more sustainable packaging materials, or reducing packaging weight, can be a challenge for businesses of all sizes.  Macfarlane Packaging is here to help you at every step of the journey. 

The Macfarlane Packaging Optimiser tool can calculate the potential cost of EPR to your business and help uncover areas of opportunity for savings. 

Our friendly packaging experts are on hand to conduct a packaging audit and advise on sustainable materials or opportunities for packaging weight reduction.

Why not contact us today to arrange a packaging audit for your business?

The post 3 ways your businesses should be preparing for Extended Producer Responsibility fees appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

A significant area to focus environmental developments on is packaging. While the primary purpose of packaging is to protect products, the wider impact on key business areas is hard to miss. Having the right pack means reducing carbon emissions and product waste, while lowering costs and increasing productivity in your supply chain.

Achieving this delicate balance requires innovative approaches and a commitment to sustainable materials. This blog explores some sustainable packaging swaps that manufacturers can implement to create efficient, eco-friendly and protective packaging solutions.

Three reasons eco-friendly packaging is important for manufacturers

Eco-friendly packaging is no longer just a trend or something businesses can forget to consider. Consumers, governments and industries demand more sustainable practices as environmental awareness grows.

1. Environmental responsibility

Eco-friendly packaging is not just a beneficial practice but an essential strategy for manufacturers.

Not only do most businesses now have internal Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals, but it also enhances their brand and (most importantly) protects the planet.

By adopting sustainable packaging solutions manufacturers can addresses environmental concerns whilst meeting regulatory and consumer demands. All while providing economic and competitive advantages across all industries.

2. Regulatory compliance

Depending on where you’re based, government legislation can differ. However, regulations around sustainable practices are not uncommon in most European countries. Some notable legislation is:

• UK Plastic Packaging Tax – This tax applies a levy to plastic packaging materials that contain less than 30% recycled content. Learn more here.
• EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive – This directive requires at least 50,000 large companies within the EU, to create a report on their social and environmental impact actions from 2024 onwards. Learn more here.
• Extended Producer Responsibilities – This legislation shifts the cost of household packaging waste management to producers. Learn more here.

3. Economic Benefits

Manufacturers need to consider the long-term cost-saving benefits of eco-friendly packaging. For example, a less complex and purpose-built pack can reduce material usage, save space and lower transport costs, all while still providing high levels of protection.

How to choose the right sustainable packaging solution for your business

Selecting the right sustainable packaging solution is crucial for manufacturers aiming to balance environmental responsibility with operational efficiency. Here are some simple steps to follow when choosing the right sustainable solution:

• Assess your needs – Size, shape, weight and fragility will influence the type of packaging you need.
• Evaluate sustainable materials – While using recyclable materials would be beneficial, you should also consider what kind of protection you need. Sometimes, you do need to consider a more nuanced approach to find the right balance for your products.
• Consider holistic approaches to sustainability – Maybe a returnable solution would better suit your business; not only would it benefit your cost savings, but it would also lower wastage.

Once you have decided on a solution that suits your business, remember to review your packaging regularly. As innovations are continually launched, it’s important to keep up with any new technologies or regulations in sustainable packaging.

The 4R packaging principle

A widely adopted concept across many industries is the 4R principle, which you may want to consider also. For our industry, we think it’s important to design packaging that touches on these four points:

Reduce – Pack designs that are functional, easy to use, and fully protective. Most importantly, they use as little material as possible and are compact and light to help reduce waste and shipping costs. Reducing your pack size, weight or waste has the biggest impact in overall CO2 emissions throughout the supply chain

Reuse –Wherever opportunities for ‘closed loop’ operations exist, packs should be robust enough for multi-trip use and efficient longer-term investment.

Recycle – We use readily recyclable materials. Even existing packs can be redesigned to provide superior protection using more sustainable materials.

Recover – Where possible, design packaging using materials that can be recycled or composted rather than being thrown away. Learn more about designing for a circular economy.

Sustainable packaging swaps

Long-term sustainability in packaging involves more than using eco-friendly materials; it requires a comprehensive approach and nuanced discussions about the right solutions for your business.

We’d always recommend communicating with us directly for customised advice to suit your goals and industry.

The swaps we recommend will help you lower your overall carbon footprint, use less material and boost the sustainability of your supply chain.

Swapping wooden pallets for cardboard pallets

While wooden pallets are the most common type of pallet, hidden environmental costs should be considered. Made from soft and hard woods or plywood, they can be heavy and difficult to handle.

Corrugated cardboard pallets might be the solution for a lightweight alternative. The main area where you’ll see environmental improvement is during your shipping process. Whilst it’s not a direct enhancement, you’ll benefit from the knock-on effect of reduced carbon emissions and lower fuel consumption.

Benefits of corrugated cardboard pallets

• Lightweight
• Can hold up to 750kg
• Exempt from IPSM15 requirements
• Recyclable

Swapping timber crates for Tri-Mite system

Timber crates offer many advantages, such as strength and durability, but they tend to be heavier and bulkier than alternative materials, such as cardboard or plastic.

This can raise your shipping costs significantly, especially for air freight, and it may also restrict the amount of cargo in one shipment. Heavier weights often result in higher transportation emissions and increased energy usage.

The Tri-Mite system is a comparably strong but lightweight alternative. The containers are made with strong triple-wall corrugated cardboard, and thanks to the multi-trip locking fasteners, they are suitable for reusable applications.

Reusing packaging reduces environmental impact by minimising the energy used in recycling and remanufacturing, significantly lowering the overall impact per trip.

Benefits of corrugated Tri-Mite system

• Strong packaging solution
• Extra strength due to precise joints
• Easy stacking
• Made from recyclable materials
• Reusable
• High levels of product protection
• Reduces waste

Swapping foam inserts for cardboard fittings

Foam inserts protect your products during shipment, from transportation to handling. This lowers product damages for high-value or fragile items. Most foam inserts are made from some form of plastic, including polystyrene and polyethene.

If the intention is to reuse them, that can slightly offset the environmental impact, but they will likely need to be disposed of eventually. This can raise issues due to their non-biodegradability, and if not recycled properly, they will persist in landfills for long periods of time.

Cardboard fittings are an alternative solution that still offers high levels of product protection. Such as foam inserts, cardboard fittings will stop your products moving around during transport and offer sustainable benefits too. Cardboard is biodegradable and recyclable for end-of-life disposal.

Benefits of cardboard fittings

• More space efficient – can be supplied flat
• High levels of product protection
• 100% recyclable
• Biodegradable
• Custom made to limit movement during shipment

How Macfarlane Packaging can support your environmental goals

Balancing material usage with product protection requires innovative design and advanced manufacturing techniques, but the environmental and brand reputation benefits are well worth the effort.

As the industry continues to evolve, those who embrace sustainable practices will lead the way in creating a more sustainable future.

If you’d like custom advice to enhance your sustainability and improve your supply chain, get in touch today.

The post Sustainable packaging swaps for manufacturers appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Product packaging is one of the key areas where companies can make a significant difference. According to a survey published by Statista, 81% of customers prefer eco-friendly packaging and 80% believes that online deliveries arrive overpacked.

A switch to sustainable packaging will help businesses reduce their environmental footprint and address the concerns of eco-conscious consumers.

In this blog post, we’ll explore six sustainable packaging switches. We will also look at why sustainable packaging matters, how to make your packaging eco-friendlier and how we can help you achieve your sustainability goals.

What is sustainable packaging?

Sustainable packaging is packaging that minimises its environmental impact from the time it’s manufactured to the time it’s disposed of. This includes the packaging’s design, the materials used to make it, how it’s handled, and if it can be reused or recycled after use.

Other terms for sustainable packaging include eco-friendly packaging or environmentally friendly packaging.

Why is sustainable packaging important?

Sustainable packaging reduces carbon emissions and helps combat climate change. It also conserves resources and reduces packaging waste. All in all, it’s a better option for the planet and your business.

It can also help you comply and reduce additional costs of recent packaging regulations, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Plastic Packaging Tax.

How to make your packaging more sustainable

There are several ways to make your product packaging more sustainable, including using less material to do the same job or switching to an eco-friendlier alternative.

Packaging solutions that can be reused, recycled or contain recycled materials will also typically reduce environmental impact and support the broader transition to a more sustainable economy.

The right packaging solution will protect your products on their journey to the consumer, while saving you money on materials, storage and transportation. It will also help minimise product damage in transit, therefore, you will spend less on issuing replacement and processing returns.

6 sustainable packaging switches

Below, we have listed 6 different sustainable packaging swaps, which can help make your supply chain more eco-friendly.

1. Paper vs Plastic Tape

Paper tape is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packing tapes.

It is available as self-adhesive, gummed paper or masking tape, and comes in a wide variety of roll sizes and lengths. Paper tape can contain different types of adhesives, which can affect its properties. Some paper tapes offer permanent sealing, like gummed paper tape, while others are meant for temporary use.

Paper tape can be recycled together with cardboard boxes, making the recycling process easier for your customers. It can also help significantly minimise material waste, contributing to a reduction in your CO₂ emissions – take a look at our case study to find out more.

2. Bubble Wrap® IB Film vs Traditional Bubble Wrap

Bubble on demand is an excellent solution for increasing productivity, saving space and reducing material costs.

Bubble Wrap® IB film can be shipped and stored flat, and then inflated on demand with a simple to use inflator.

This is a great space-saving solution – one pallet of Bubble Wrap® IB film is equivalent to 90 large bundles of traditional bubble wrap.

The IB film also takes up less space on delivery vehicles, resulting in the reduction of material deliveries by 97%, lower transport costs and carbon footprint.

To find out more about this product, take a look at our blog article: Why Choose Bubble On Demand vs. Bubble Wrap.

3. Recycled Content vs Virgin Kraft Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes made from recycled materials provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging option.

These high quality, durable boxes are made with up to 100% recycled materials, so choosing this solution can have a positive impact on the environment and your brand reputation.

Read our recent blog post for more details – The benefits of using recycled content boxes.

4. Corrugated Cardboard vs Wooden Pallets

Corrugated cardboard pallets are a lightweight alternative to traditional timber pallets. They weigh only about 4kg each but are very strong and durable and can hold up to 750kg.

The light weight of the pallets can contribute to reducing your overall shipping weight, and you can recycle them at the end of their lives too, making them a sustainable choice. They are also exempt from ISPM15, meaning you can ship them worldwide. Cardboard pallets are easy to handle (no splinters or nails) and can be collapsed for storage, helping optimise space in your warehouse.

5. Stretch Wrap Reduction

If you’re using pallet wrap and looking for ways to reduce the amount of material you’re handling, lower micron stretch films are a good option. Stretch films with recycled material content are also available, helping you comply with packaging legislations, including Plastic Packaging Tax.

For machine applications, there’s a wide selection of machine applied stretch films starting at 10 microns, with up to 30% recycled content and up to 300% stretch. These solutions will help you use less material to wrap each pallet, reducing costs and environmental impact, without compromising product safety in storage and transit. To find out more, read our blog article: 5 Ways to Reduce the Cost and Environmental Impact of Your Stretch Wrap.

6. RecyCold® Climaliner Shipping Packs vs. Foil Lined Chilled Packaging

RecyCold® Climalinershipping packs are a new, innovative chilled packaging solution that combines RecycoolMe boxes with new RecyCold® Climaliner insulated liners.

The liner is filled with Ranpak’s Geami honeycomb paper and offers up to 48 hours of insulation against temperature fluctuations for chilled, frozen, or ambient products.

Recyclable, 100% paper-based, made from sustainable materials and vegan friendly, the solution is a great substitute for foil lined chilled packaging. It is available in three different sizes, with either a single or double layer of the Climaliner, depending on your needs.

How Macfarlane Packaging can help

With so many different packaging solutions available on the market, it may be hard to know which one is right for your product and needs.

At Macfarlane Packaging, we are here to assist you in finding the best environmentally friendly packaging solutions to help you save money, keep your products safe, protect your brand reputation and the planet.

We can also recommend ways to reduce the amount of packaging materials you use without compromising product protection. This will help minimise your environmental impact while reducing your material costs.

The post 6 Sustainable Packaging Switches: A Guide for Eco-Conscious Businesses appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

As a result, deciding whether returnable packaging is the right choice for your business is vital.

This guide takes a look at what returnable packaging is, alongside the business and operational characteristics that can make it suited (or unsuited) to your supply chain.

What is returnable packaging?

Returnable packaging is any box, tote, tray or container that can be used over multiple journeys, rather than a single trip or expendable packaging such as corrugated boxes.

Returnable packaging is typically manufactured from robust, long-lasting materials, including moulded plastics, Correx®, metals, and even timber.

Popular returnable packaging options include Euro containers, Correx® tote boxes, and attached lid containers (ALC), although this can extend to items including pallets. Returnable packaging also often includes inserts to improve performance, including divider sets, layer pads, vacuum-formed trays, foam inserts, and linings.

It is also important not to confuse genuinely returnable packaging with that originally intended for single use but may be reused over multiple journeys, known as opportunistic reuse.

When you should consider returnable packaging

So, how can you tell if switching to or using returnable packaging is right for your business? Well, there are several strong indicators that can help you in making this decision.

You have a returnable supply chain in place

If you already transport going to and, crucially, from your customers and/or suppliers, it can make sense to begin using returnable packaging.

Empty or part-loaded lorries making a return journey to your premises can return your totes or containers without incurring additional costs.

With this in place, there are no additional costs or environmental implications to getting your returnable packaging back to your business for reuse.

However, if it is not easy to return your totes or containers, the additional steps required can often be prohibitive.

You are looking to reduce long-term costs

If your business is looking to take a longer-term view of its costs, returnable packaging can be a great way to make savings.

While returnable containers have a significantly higher upfront unit cost than corrugated boxes, over the course of their usable lifespan, they become much more cost-effective.

As a basic example, if a cardboard box costs 10 pence per unit, the cost per trip (for your packaging alone) is 10 pence. An equivalent returnable tote may cost £10, but over the course of 100 uses, this equates to a 10 pence cost per trip. After 200 uses, this falls to 5 pence, half the cardboard option’s cost.

As this illustrates, using or switching to reusable options can – eventually – result in significant cost savings.

You take a holistic view of your environmental impact

Many businesses take a simplistic view that plastic packaging is bad due to the use of fossil fuels in its manufacture and the difficulty of recycling. In contrast, corrugated cardboard uses renewable materials and is easily recycled.

However, the actual picture is much more nuanced.

The amount of energy required in the transportation of materials, manufacture of a box, and then further transportation and energy involved in recycling (before manufacturing into a box again) can often be more significant than the requirements to produce an equivalent returnable packaging container.

As with costs, reusing packaging can significantly reduce environmental impact when taking a longer-term view. The impact “per trip” becomes considerably less due to eliminating the energy required in continual recycling and remanufacturing.

It should also be noted that most returnable packaging can be recycled at the end of its usable life, although it typically requires specialist facilities.

You need to ensure that damage in transit is prevented

Another area where returnable packaging can play a vital role is reducing transit damage.

Typically more durable and tough to ensure longevity, these properties also inherently improve protection for their contents. Returnable packaging usually provides enhanced protection against moisture, dust, chemicals and adverse weather conditions, too.

Additionally, using dunnage such as dividers, foam, or insert trays prevents the movement of parts or products within their containers during transit, minimising the potential for damage.

You are looking to improve handling, efficiency and safety

Using dividers and inserts inside your returnable packaging has another significant benefit besides reducing damage – improving handling and packing efficiency.

With dedicated cells or compartments within an outer container, it is much quicker and easier for staff to load and unload parts and components from the container. Assembly or production line staff can also see much more quickly how many items remain in a container before running out.

Dividers and inserts also prevent your returnable packaging from being overloaded (as there are only a set number of cells for items to be placed within). This, and other features such as handles, lids or integral pallets, can also improve staff safety as containers do not become too heavy to lift safely.

When returnable packaging may not be right for your business

Although there are considerable benefits to using returnable packaging, it is not suitable for all businesses and applications. If any of the following apply to your business, then single-trip corrugated packaging is likely still your best option.

You have no way to get your returnable packaging back

If you already have transport running between customers and your sites, there is no additional cost (or environmental impact) of having these vehicles return your packaging to you for reuse.

If, however, this is something you need to put in place, the additional expense can often make it prohibitive. This is in addition to increased CO2 emissions negating the environmental benefits associated with reuse.

Similarly, depending on the reliability of your transport provider and your relationships with customers, there is the potential for returnable packaging to suffer damage over time or even go missing. If this occurs, your business faces the costs of repairing or replacing them.

Whilst some maintenance, including cleaning, can be expected, if you fear it is likely that you will be continually needing to replace your containers, any cost savings can be quickly eroded.

You expect customers or end users to recycle them

Whilst returnable packaging is recyclable at the end of its usable lifespan, this usually requires specialist facilities.

As such, if it is likely that your customers will need or be expected to recycle your returnable packaging at the end of its lifespan, this can result in many simply being discarded and ending up in landfill.

You cannot afford the upfront cost

It is inescapable that returnable packaging involves a considerably larger upfront investment than single-trip packaging. And whilst the mid- to long-term costs can be significantly lower, for many businesses this initial cost can be prohibitive.

Many businesses now treat returnable packaging as a capital investment (rather than an ongoing cost) in order to circumvent this issue.

Long term flexibility

Many businesses will have a continually evolving inventory of products that they supply or manufacture. This means that the packaging they use is also adapting and being modified as product lines and ranges change.

However, if you have chosen returnable packaging based on the specification of a product that you are no longer making, it can mean less efficient transit if you continue to use them. It is also considerably more costly to purchase entirely new packaging.

Whilst changing internal dividers and inserts can often negate this issue, if your product range changes considerably over time, returnable packaging may not be the best option.

Summary

Deciding on whether to use returnable packaging at your business can be difficult. And whilst returnable packaging can provide significant cost savings, improved usability, and lessen environmental impact, it is not suitable for every business.

At Macfarlane Packaging, we have vast experience and expertise in supplying both single-trip and returnable packaging. This means that not only can we provide your business with either option, but we can also provide genuinely impartial advice on the best option for your specific application.

So, if you are considering returnable packaging at your business, please speak with one of our team members for assistance.

The post How to decide if returnable packaging is right for your business appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

In this article, we’ll explore what sustainable packaging is, why it’s important and debunk common myths about it. We’ll also consider why sustainable packaging can have benefits for businesses too!

By choosing sustainable packaging, businesses can show their dedication to environmental stewardship.

Unravelling the Concept of Sustainable Packaging

Defining Sustainable Packaging

What does sustainable packaging mean? In essence, it is packaging that considers sustainability and minimises environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.  

For packaging to be considered sustainable, the design, manufacturing, use and disposal or repurposing of the packaging must consider everything from the raw materials it’s made from through to the carbon emissions associated with the packaging and even how it’s handled.  

Often, sustainable packaging may be referred to as eco-friendly packaging or environmentally-friendly packaging too.

Key Elements of Sustainable Packaging

If you’re wondering if the packaging you’re considering is environmentally friendly, it’s worth noting these characteristics:

• Material used: packaging that’s sustainable often centres around renewable and recyclable materials like paper, cardboard, and bioplastics. Eco-friendly materials are characterised by being responsibly sourced and having a lower carbon footprint.
• Waste reduction: packaging that can be easily recycled or composted and optimising packaging design to reduce excess material usage will make it even more sustainable.
• Energy and fuel efficiency: packaging that is manufactured using energy-efficient processes and technologies to minimise greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, optimised packaging designs that minimise pack size and weight can maxmise efficiency while minimising fuel consumption.
• Extended product lifecycle: more sustainable packaging will have a longer life cycle.  Reuse and recycling of packaging materials is a crucial part of this.

The Importance of Sustainable Packaging

So, now you know what sustainable packaging is, why is it so important?

We’re all facing climate change and the depletion of natural resources, and have a role to play in tackling these issues. Businesses and consumers alike are recognising the adoption of sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly packaging.

When designed, used and disposed of properly, the right packaging can help limit a businesses impact on the environment. Using packaging that’s sustainable can:

• Help conserve natural resources and protect biodiversity
• Minimise greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to tacking climate change
• Protect products from damage (so they’re not wasted and thrown away)
• Limit waste that goes to landfill
• Support a more circular economy

Common Sustainable Packaging Materials

To start using sustainable packaging, you can choose from materials like recycled paper, compostable options, and bio-based plastics. Let’s delve into some of the common materials used in sustainable packaging and the advantages they offer.

1. Recycled paper and cardboard: made from recycled post-consumer waste, recycled paper and cardboard help conserve natural resources and reduce landfill waste. Recycled content materials also create fewer carbon emissions too. For example, when we switched our stock box range to 100% recycled content, we cut over 1,000 tonnes of carbon from our supply chain.

2. Bio-based plastics: the right bioplastic can be a good sustainable packaging choice. To be as eco-friendly as possible you need to choose a bioplastic that is made from a biomass like starch, vegetable oil or sugar cane that can biodegrade. They are ideal for single-use items like packaging films and bags. You should be careful though as bioplastics can be both bio-based and fossil-based. Click here for a handy illustration that explains bioplastics in more detail.

3. Reusable packaging: reusable packaging aims to minimise waste by designing products that can be used multiple times. Reusable packaging can be made with many materials including aluminium, wood, and Correx®.

4. Compostable materials: compostable materials break down into nutrient-rich compost when disposed of in the right conditions. They are typically made from renewable resources like plant fibres or starches. These materials are suitable for food packaging, disposable cutlery, and other single-use items. It’s worth noting that not all compostable packaging materials are equal. They need to meet certain requirements to be classed as home compostable. One of our other articles explains more here.

By using sustainable packaging materials, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility. These materials offer advantages such as reduced carbon footprint, resource conservation, and improved brand image.

Debunking Sustainable Packaging Myths

Understanding the basics of sustainable packaging is a good place to start but there can often be misconceptions about packaging and sustainability out there. It’s often a nuanced and complex topic, so let’s debunk some myths….

	Myth		Fact
	Eco-friendly packaging costs more than regular packaging		Sustainable packaging can help you lower your overall packaging costs, even if the unit price might seem more expensive on face value. It does this by: – Reducing damages – so you’re not paying for replacements – Helping you use less material – so you’re buying less packaging – Mitigating legislation costs and packaging tax (such as the Plastic Packaging Tax and EPR) – Protecting your customer reputation as consumers become more environmentally aware
	You can’t customise sustainable packaging		You can customise sustainable packaging. It can be tailored to your size, print and material specification.   In fact, customised packaging can sometimes be even more sustainable as it’s designed for your product, which can make it less wasteful and increase protection.
	Paper is always more sustainable than plastic		Paper is often seen as the default eco-friendly packaging material. And in many ways, it is a great choice – it’s both recyclable and renewable. However, just like all packaging materials, it can have disadvantages too. For example, paper can have an environmentally taxing manufacturing processes. Plus, it can be heavier than plastic, so can create more emissions during transport. The most sustainable packaging for your business will depend on lots of different factors.
	Bioplastics are not eligible for the Plastic Packaging Tax		If you use bioplastics, you do still have to pay the Plastic Packaging Tax if they contain less than 30% recycled content.
	Bioplastics are always more sustainable than regular plastic		Bioplastics are not straight forward and not always more sustainable. Bioplastics can be both bio-based and fossil-based. They can also be classed as biodegradable and non-biodegradable. Polymers that are made from biomass that can biodegrade (like polylactic acid polymers) are the most environmentally friendly choices. In contrast, oxo-degradable plastics, which are often touted as biodegradable, break down into microplastic and can harm the environment and wildlife.
	If it’s compostable you can put it straight into the garden or your home compost bin		Whilst this can be true for some compostable products, not true for all.  Always check the label to see if it’s “Home compostable” or “Industrial compostable”.  Industrial compostable products require a much higher temperature to aid the composting process and will not break down at home.

Business Benefits of Sustainable Packaging

Implementing sustainable packaging solutions, can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also enhance your brand image and attract environmentally conscious customers.

Key advantages include:

• Minimising your carbon emissions
• Reducing packaging waste
• Reducing overall packaging costs and mitigating associated packaging levies
• Improving your brand image with eco-conscious consumers

In summary, sustainable packaging can play an integral role in your sustainability strategy.

Help with packaging and sustainability

At Macfarlane Packaging, we understand the significance of sustainable packaging for businesses. We offer a wide range of eco-friendly packaging solutions that can help you achieve your sustainability goals. From recycled cardboard boxes to compostable packaging materials, we have options to suit your specific needs.

Contact us today to learn more about our sustainable packaging solutions and how they can benefit your business.

The post What is Sustainable Packaging?: A Quick Guide appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Typically made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) it is highly stretchable, which means it conforms tightly to the shape of your palletised load, ensuring that it is stable in transit and storage.

Pallet wrap plays a vital role in the transportation and storage of palletised goods but, many companies are keen to reduce their use of the material, for both environmental and cost reasons. 

If you are using pallet wrap, there are lots of opportunities to use less of it, in this blog we’ll show you 5 ways to reduce your stretch wrap use. We will cover:

What is pallet stretch wrap used for?

Stretch wrap is an essential component for palletising goods. The key advantage of pallet wrap is that it prevents your products from shifting, tipping, or falling during transit. It helps to maintain the integrity of the load and reduces the risk of damage or loss.

It also provides a protective barrier around palletised goods, shielding them from dust, dirt, moisture, and other environmental factors that could potentially damage or contaminate products.

Stretch wrap enhances packaging efficiency as it creates a single, cohesive unit or load, making it easier to handle, transport, and store. This process, known as unitisation, improves efficiency and reduces the risk of lost or misplaced items.

How is stretch wrap applied?

Stretch wrap can be applied by either hand or machine, the application type really does depend on what quantity of pallets you are wrapping each day.

Hand application – this is when stretch film is manually applied by hand, which can be done with or without a hand dispenser. All hand-applied stretch films are supplied on standard cores for use with hand-applied applicators or extended cores. 

If you are applying stretch film by hand, it’s important to consider any health and safety risks associated with hand film application, like the weight of the film and the impact of stretching and pulling on the operator.

Machine application – this is when stretch film is applied to a pallet or product using a pallet wrapper, a machine that automatically winds film round a products on a pallet.

A pallet wrapper is recommended if you are wrapping more than 15 pallets per day. 

Machine applied stretch films are extremely strong and versatile, which saves time, resources and packaging materials for high performance applications requiring higher tensile strengths. These films have excellent puncture resistance, good cling, slip and load retention.

What is the environmental impact of pallet wrap?

Pallet wrap is made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).  As with the production of many plastics, it consumes resources such as fossil fuels and water and has a high CO2 impact in the manufacturing process.

Excessive application of film, or overuse, can be wasteful which also has a negative impact on the environment.  To ensure load stability, operators can apply too much film by either doing too many wraps or, not applying the correct level of stretch or tension to the film. This could be down to inadequate training or inexperience.

Over application of stretch wrap can also happen with machine applied films too.  it’s important to check that the machine settings are correct for the type of stretch wrap you are using.

By using less wrap, fewer resources are consumed, helping to conserve natural resources and reduce the carbon footprint associated with the manufacturing process and material waste.

How can you use less pallet wrap?

We’ve come up with 5 ways to help you use less stretch wrap:

1. Select the best film for your business

When selecting the right pallet wrap for your business, there are two main areas of consideration:

Stretch wrap performance – Selecting a stretch film that provides the right yield strength and performance for the loads being wrapped is crucial. The yield strength denotes the amount of stress a stretch film can withstand without permanently having plastic deformation. Prior to reaching the yield point, a stretch film will elastically deform but will return to its original shape once the stress is removed

The make-up of the products being wrapped – Consider the products being wrapped and look at your weight load (typically per pallet), load profile type, and the transit process the load will experience.

Load profiles can be summarised by three key types:

2. Change the micron of your stretch wrap

If you can reduce the micron of your stretch wrap to a thinner material, you should be able to reduce your overall use of stretch wrap – reducing your impact on the environment as well as material cost.

Advances in technology of stretch wrap manufacturing has given us a new breed of “High performance” stretch film, it  has a much lower material thickness (micron) than traditional heavier film but provides the same, or higher, levels of performance.

High performance pallet wrap provides businesses with an opportunity to wrap more pallets with less film, whilst maintaining high levels of load containment. This can provide businesses with a reduction in material cost and wrapping times, as well as reducing material use and waste.

3. Switch to a recycled content stretch wrap

As explained earlier, stretch wrap does require the use of fossil fuels, which means that the manufacturing process has a high co2 impact.

By switching to a recycled content stretch film, you are not only reducing the use of fossil fuels, but also ensuring that waste material is recycled for reuse, driving a “circle of life” for plastic materials.

Whilst 100% recycled content film is not yet available, both hand and machine applied pallet wrap is available in a minimum of 30% recycled content. 

If you are currently using a virgin film, a switch to recycled content will also reduce your material cost, as a Plastic Packaging Tax of £ 217.85 per tonne is applied to any plastic packaging which does not contain a minimum of 30% recycled content.

4. Use a pre-stretch hand applicator

If you are applying film by hand, consider the type of stretch wrap applicator that you are using as well as safety precautions when using pallet wrap.

A basic hand stretch dispenser simply holds the roll in place whilst the operator walks around the pallet to apply the film.  Film application is reliant on the operator applying a consistent level of tension by pulling the applicator as the film is applied.  Not only can this lead to operator injury, it can also mean that the pallet wrap isn’t stretched to capacity.  This leads to overuse of film, and a higher cost to wrap each pallet.

Consider investing in an applicator with pre-stretch gears, like Wrapplicator, which applies pallet wrap with a consistent 30% stretch. It’s ergonomic design ensures that the stretch wrap can be applied single handedly, without bending or pulling, reducing the risk of operator injury.

Whilst a dispenser like Wrapplicator costs more than a standard dispenser, it will pay for itself quickly by maximising material use and removing incidences of over stretching or snapping film which can slow down the time taken to wrap each pallet – reducing material and labour cost.  It’s ease of use also means that no matter which operator wraps the pallet, you’ll always get the same result.

5. Automate the process

If you are wrapping 15 or more pallets per day, it’s time to invest in a pallet wrapping machine.

An stretch wrap machine optimises film use through advanced technology and precise film application. They calculate the exact amount of film required based on the pallet dimensions, resulting in reduced film use. Many systems have film pre-stretching capabilities, stretching the film prior to application, further reducing the amount of stretch wrap film needed, along with the cost to wrap each pallet.

A stretch wrap machine can typically pay for itself through material savings, within a few months, depending on the amount of pallets being wrapped.

A benefit of introducing a pallet wrap machine is that it can handle a high volume of pallets in a shorter period, reducing the time required for manual labour and enabling workers to focus on other value-added tasks. Once a pallet is placed onto a pallet wrapper turntable, the operator is able to prepare the next pallet ready for wrapping.

How Macfarlane Packaging can help to reduce your stretch wrap use

With a wide range of recycled content stretch wrap, for both hand and machine application, and pallet wrapping machines, Macfarlane Packaging can help you to identify the right film and automation system.

Our specialist load containment team are on hand to conduct a free of charge stretch wrap review, identifying ways for you to improve your pallet wrapping and reduce material use and cost.  Often, a stretch wrap review can reduce film use by 50%.

We’ve a new range of machine stretch films, starting at 10 micron and containing 30% recycled content available with up to 300% stretch, including black pallet wrap.   Our new hand stretch dispenser, the Wrapplicator, will also reduce your cost to hand wrap each pallet.

Contact us today to find out more.

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To help build a safer and more sustainable world, it’s worth taking the time to understand the jargon that’s out there.

We’ve compiled a handy sustainability glossary as a tool to demystify sustainability buzzwords and the terminology around eco-friendly packaging.

Understanding sustainability and its importance

Sustainability is a crucial concept that plays a significant role in today’s world.

In the broadest sense, sustainability refers to the ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time. For most people and businesses, sustainability means saving natural resources and protecting the environment for future generations.

Within the subject of sustainability, there are lots of aspects to consider. These include environmental, social, and economic actions and their impact on the planet. And packaging plays a part in this too, as it can influence natural resources and impact the environment.

As we move towards a greener future, we all need to work together – businesses, people, and governments – to make it happen. One way to start is taking the time to understand sustainability buzzwords. 

To support this, we have created a handy sustainability glossary. It demystifies key terms about eco-friendly packaging, recycling and general words related to sustainability.

Eco-friendly packaging glossary

Biodegradable – when something is labelled as biodegradable, it means it is capable of being broken down by the action of living things (such as microorganisms). Almost anything can biodegrade given time and the right conditions.

Biodegradable packaging – this is packaging that can biodegrade. Look closely at packaging labelled as biodegradable, particularly biodegradable plastic and bioplastics, as it can be a complex area. They are sometimes confused with oxo-degradable plastics, which are not the same.

Bioplastics – the definition of bioplastics differs depending on where you look. Bioplastics can be both bio-based and fossil-based. They can also be classed as biodegradable and non-biodegradable. Polymers that are made from biomass that can biodegrade are the most environmentally friendly choices. An example is polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastic.

The below illustration shows the complexities of bioplastics and their potential composition.

Compostable – compostable is used to describe a product that can disintegrate into non-toxic, natural elements.

Compostable packaging – this term refers to packaging products that are made from materials that decompose fully into compost without producing toxic residue as they break down. To be classified as compostable, packaging materials must meet specific criteria set out in European Standard EN 13432.

When packaging is labelled compostable, it is important to differentiate between industrially compostable and home compostable materials. Both types are held to different standards and should be labelled differently.       

	Industrially Compostable	Home Compostable
Biodegradation	Materials are tested for biodegradation at 58 °C +/- 2 °C, with carbon dioxide at least 90 % compared with control within 6 months.	Materials are tested for biodegradation at an ambient temperature (20-30°C), with carbon dioxide at least 90 % compared with control within 365 days.
Disintegration	Test for disintegration is performed at whatever temperatures are achieved in testing vessels. Vessels are at least 140 litres. After a maximum of 12 weeks no more than 10 % of original dry weight of test material should be > 2 mm.	Test for disintegration are performed at 20 – 30°C in vessels that have at least a140 litre capacity. After a maximum of 26 weeks no more than 10 % of original dry weight of test material should be > 2 mm.
Certification logo / labelling	Din Certo	Vinçotte

Eco-friendly packaging – this is packaging that is easy to recycle and made from materials manufactured using minimal impact on energy consumption or natural resources.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) – EPR is a new signature piece of UK legislation that will see the full cost of managing household packaging waste shift from taxpayers to producers. Click here to learn more.

Oxo-degradable plastic – often confused with bioplastics, oxo-degradable plastic is conventional plastic mixed with an additive that makes it break down. Oxo-degradable plastic quickly fragments into smaller pieces called microplastics, which are harmful to the environment.

Packaging waste recovery notes (PRNs) – evidence to prove businesses have met the producer responsibility requirements of Packaging Waste Regulations in terms of quantities recycled.

Plastic Packaging Tax – the Plastic Packaging Tax is a piece of UK legislation that sees a levy applied to plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled content. The tax is paid per tonne of plastic packaging. Learn more here.

Returnable packaging – this refers to any packaging that can be used to return a product to where it is purchased from.

Reusable packaging – reusable packaging refers to any packaging material that can continuously be reused throughout a supply chain.

Sustainable packaging – the term that is used when referring to packaging that is developed and used to improve sustainability. This involves increased use of life cycle inventory (LCI) and life cycle assessment to help guide the use of packaging, which reduces the environmental impact and ecological footprint.

Recycling glossary

Business / commercial / industrial waste – this is rubbish produced by businesses of any kind from retail shops and restaurants through to markets, offices, factories, hotels and wholesalers.

Dry mixed recycling – this is dry recyclable material, typically consisting of plastic, cardboard, paper and glass. It’s often collected together and then taken to a facility to be sorted and processed in different waste streams.

General waste – this refers to waste that cannot be recycled. It usually covers materials such as non-recyclable plastics, food waste and wrappers.

Household waste – also known as domestic waste, this is rubbish generated by households and can include both general waste and recyclable waste.

Landfill – this refers to when unrecyclable waste and refuse is buried in excavated pits, which are usually covered with soil when full.

On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) – this is the name of a common recycling labelling scheme that provides simple, consistent labels for use on packaging. The labels clearly indicate whether packaging can be recycled or not.  Learn more here.

Recycling – recycling is the process of converting waste into material that can then be reused. Its purpose is to prevent the waste of virgin resources, preserving natural resources and reducing pollution where possible.

Recyclable(s) – if something is labelled as recyclable, it is made from material that can be recycled through current recycling processes and processed into new products. Multiple materials that can be recycled may be called recyclables.

Recycled content – this refers to how much recycled material a product contains. The recycled content can be post-consumer or pre-consumer.

Virgin material – this refers to material that has been gathered from the environment in its natural, raw form. It has never been used before and is therefore “virgin”.

Waste streams – this refers to the flow of household waste or industrial waste through to final disposal or recycling. For example, the “paper waste stream” refers to the flow of paper / cardboard products through to recycling.

General sustainability, climate change and reporting glossary

Carbon footprint – this is the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions that are produced by an individual, organisation, event, product or service. These emissions are measured in units of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e), which reflects the amount of CO₂ that would have the same warming effect as the other greenhouse gases emitted.

Carbon neutral – this refers to achieving a balance between the amount of carbon dioxide emitted and the amount removed from the atmosphere. If a business or process is labelled carbon neutral, it has no net release of carbon emissions into the atmosphere, often because of carbon offsetting.

Carbon offsetting – this is the action of compensating for carbon emissions by investing in or participating in schemes that make the equivalent reductions to carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere.

Circular economy  – the circular economy is an economic model that aims to eliminate waste by keeping resources in use for as long as possible. It promotes the reuse, repair and recycling of products and materials, reducing the need for virgin resources and minimising environmental degradation.

Climate change – this phrase refers to the long-term shifts to our climate, including temperatures and weather patterns. While shifts can be natural, the term is largely used in relation to changes that are being driven by human activities, e.g. the effects of burning fossil fuels or using natural resources.

ESG – this acronym stands for Environmental, Social and Governance. Businesses often use it in relation to their sustainability strategy or reporting.

• Environmental: This focuses on a company’s impact on the environment, including its carbon emissions, waste management, energy consumption and natural resource usage. It also includes efforts to mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity.
• Social: Social factors look at a company’s relationship with its employees, customers, suppliers and communities. It includes aspects such as employee welfare, diversity and inclusion, customer satisfaction, community engagement and human rights.
• Governance: Governance refers to a company’s internal policies, practices and structures that guide decision-making and ensure accountability. This includes board diversity, executive compensation, shareholder rights, ethical business practices and transparency.

Green supply chain management – green supply chain management involves integrating sustainability practices into every stage of the supply chain. This includes sourcing eco-friendly materials, reducing energy consumption, optimizing transportation routes and promoting ethical labour practices.

Net zero – net zero refers to a state where the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced is equal to the amount of greenhouse gases removed from the atmosphere. This means that any emissions produced are offset by measures to remove or reduce them.

TCFD – this stands for Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures. They provide a set of recommendations for climate-related financial disclosures. The goal of TCFD is to provide transparency around risks and opportunities associated with climate change (e.g. carbon emissions), to allow investors, lenders and other financial institutions to assess them effectively.

Support with sustainable packaging

Hopefully, you found this sustainability glossary useful! Sustainably remains a nuanced and complex topic. Understanding words related to sustainability can help you make informed decisions about your packaging!

If you’re navigating your way around the complexities of sustainability and eco-friendly packaging, we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information about sustainable packaging swaps and carbon emissions reduction related to packaging.

The post Demystifying sustainability buzzwords: a sustainability glossary   appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation has been on the horizon in the UK for a while.  Recently, the UK Government pushed out the date for mandatory reporting to 31st May 2024 and, put a pause on the implementation of fees until 2025.

If your business is eligible for EPR reporting and fees, you should already be taking action to reduce the impact on your business.

In this blog, we will cover a practical guide to Extended Producer Responsibility, including what it is, why it’s being introduced and if it will apply to your business.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is new legislation being introduced in the UK. At a simplistic level, the regulation will see businesses that put packaging on to the UK market be taxed for creating packaging waste.

Funds raised from the tax will switch the obligation of community waste disposal and recycling costs from local councils to the businesses that supply packaging into UK households.

Who is the scheme administrator for EPR?

Extended Producer Responsibility falls under the remit of Defra – the Department for Rural Affairs.

In January 2024, Defra announced that Dr Margaret Bates has been appointed to the role of Head for the UK Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging Scheme Administrator. 

Dr Bates is the Managing Director of OPRL (On-Pack Recycling Label) which provides consumers with simple, consistent recycling information on brand packaging to increase recycling awareness. She will take up the role as a secondment for up to two years.

In this role, Dr Bates will be responsible for the implementation and readiness of the Scheme Administrator. 

Why EPR is being introduced?

EPR is being introduced to support the Government’s 25 year environment plan, which seeks to build a greener future.

The strategy includes a package of new legislation to help grow the recycling infrastructure and provide consistency throughout the UK on the types of materials that can be recycled locally.  It’s thought that the cost recovered from the taxation will be in the region of £2bn.

Does EPR apply to my business?

The Extended Producer Responsibility legislation is aimed at suppliers of packaging. At face value, you might think: “That doesn’t apply to me, I’m not a packaging company”!

However, the legislation applies to any UK business which imports or supplies packaging into the UK market, which could end up in household waste.  So, the tax can apply to online retailers, distributors, manufacturers and even packaging companies like us!

Eligibility for EPR

You will need to take action under EPR legislation if the following apply:

• you’re an individual business, subsidiary or group (but not a charity)
• you have an annual turnover of £1 million or more (based on your most recent annual accounts)
• you were responsible for more than 25 tonnes of packaging in 2022
• you carry out any of the packaging activities defined by the Government

How the legislation will be applied will depend on if you’re classed as a small business or large business.

These are defined by the UK Government as:

Small business – you have an annual turnover of between £1 million and £2 million. You’re responsible for putting onto the market (or importing) more than 25 tonnes of empty packaging or packaged goods in the UK, or your annual turnover is over £1 million. You’re putting or importing between 25 tonnes and 50 tonnes of empty packaging or packaged goods into the UK.

Large business – you have an annual turnover of £2 million or more, and you’re responsible for putting onto the market (or importing) more than 50 tonnes of empty packaging or packaged goods in the UK.

For both classifications, your turnover should be taken from your most recent company accounts. Total packaging weight is calculated on your usage in a calendar year – January to December – of packaging supplied through the UK market, including anything imported and then discarded in the UK.

How EPR applies to small businesses and large businesses 

If your company falls into the small business bracket, you will not need to pay a tax under the regulations. You WILL need to collect your packaging waste data for 2023 but will not need to report it. You WILL need to collect data for 2025 and be ready to report it in 2025.

The UK Government requires that you are already recording data about the empty packaging and packaged goods you supply to UK markets (or import into the UK).

You will be obliged to create an account for your organisation from January 2024. Small businesses will also need to pay a fee to the environmental regulator from 2025.

If you’re classed as a large business, you should also already be recording your packaging data and reporting it every six months. Plus, you should also expect to pay waste management fees and further charges from 2025.

What are EPR fees expected to be?

Modulated fees for large businesses will be paid on a cost per tonne basis, depending on the type of packaging material used.

Whilst these costs have not yet been confirmed, a leading compliance organisation have estimated that these are likely to be in the region of:

• Paper and Board – £221 per tonne
• Plastic – £525 per tonne

This means that if your packaging use of 50 tonnes was split equally between paper and plastic, you could be charged around £18,500 in EPR taxation.

What do I need to do to comply with EPR?

The steps you need to take to comply with EPR include:

1. Checking if you need to report data, including national data
2. Collecting your packaging data
3. Creating an account for your company
4. Reporting your packaging data based on the relevant deadlines
5. Paying applicable fees from 2025

You may also want to consider working with a third-party compliance partner, who can help you manage your EPR processes.

How can I prepare for the impact of EPR?

To prepare for the impact of EPR, there are some key actions you can take. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Collect detailed information about your packaging materials and their use – data will be an important part of complying with Extended Producer Responsibility. The more detailed information the better.
• Review packaging designs to minimise packaging waste – as EPR will be applied by material weight, reviewing how much packaging you use will be key to mitigating the impact of EPR and the costs associate with it. Reconsidering your packaging designs can help reduce material use and therefore reduce the amount of material you use.
• Consider switching to materials that will attract lower EPR fees – DEFRA is expected to announce modulated fees based on the type of packaging material being used. For example, plastics are expected to be taxed more stringently than paper. Therefore, now is a good time to consideration the materials you’re using for packaging. Could you swap to materials that attract lower fees while maintaining the performance of your packaging?

How Macfarlane Packaging can help with EPR management

EPR is a complex topic but in its simplest form, it’s around driving behaviour in eligible businesses to reduce the amount of packaging used and, ensure that the material used is either recyclable or reusable.

At Macfarlane Packaging we have a wide range of tools to help you prepare for EPR. These include services designed to reduce material usage, therefore, reducing future EPR costs:

• An online e-trading system for easy reporting – we can provide one click reporting on packaging usage, by product, material type and weight. Simplifying the reporting process for our customers.
• Exclusive packaging optimisation software – our industry-first tool, the Packaging Optimiser, can show you what your packaging costs you and the environment – showing financial and CO2 savings of revised packaging solutions.
• State-of-the-art Innovation Labs for developing sustainable solutions  – we have two state-of-the-art facilities equipped with packaging design software, sampling machinery and testing equipment to create leading sustainable packaging solutions.
• Extensive eco-friendly packaging range – we have a huge range of packaging materials that are recyclable and contain recycled content to support sustainability goals.

If you are interested in optimising your packaging and reducing the weight of your packaging use, contact us today.

The post Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Updated Guide appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Adopting eco-friendly packaging can align with consumer values and contribute to a healthier planet. So, whether you’re a retailer, distributor or manufacturer, sustainable packaging should form part of your sustainability strategy!

In this article, we’ll explore why eco-friendly packaging is crucial and answer common questions about sustainable packaging. Plus, we’ll provide eight actionable tips for businesses to make their packaging eco-friendlier.

What is eco-friendly packaging?

Eco-friendly packaging is packaging that has minimal impact on the environment and results in improved sustainability. This involves the development and use of the packaging, as well as it’s lifecycle.

The scope of eco-friendly packaging, also referred to as sustainable packaging, will consider the material it is made from. This will include the type of material, whether they are renwable, if it contains recycled content and if the end packaging can be recycled or reused. Ultimately, eco-friendly packaging should reduce environmental impact and have a low ecological footprint.

Why is eco-friendly packaging important?

There are lots of reasons why eco-friendly packaging is important. Packaging that is sustainable can help us protect our planet and support:

Resource conservation

Production of certain packaging materials can drain raw natural resources, like fossil fuels. Making use of recycled materials in packaging production and considering the impact of packaging production can help conserve raw materials for future generations.

Biodiversity protection

Similarly, using natural resources can often have an impact on biodiversity in our environment through actions like deforestation. Reusing materials and minimising the impact of packaging manufacturing can contribute to preventing biodiversity loss.

Climate change mitigation

Climate change mitigation is how we try and prevent climate change. It is difficult to accomplish and there are many complex factors at play, but it involves minimising deforestation and restoring natural habitats until the planet reaches net zero emissions.

Sustainable packaging, that reduces a supply chain’s carbon emissions, can play a role in supporting this goal.

How can I make my packaging more sustainable?

One of the questions we are often asked at Macfarlane is “how can I make my packaging more sustainable?”.

Looking at the full lifecycle of your packaging design and material, right through to how it is transported, stored, packed and shipped can help you identify points for improvement. In addition, considering if the packaging will be reused or recycled will enable to you to minimise its environmental impact.

To help you get started, we’ve put together 8-eco-friendly packaging tips you need to try! These tips can help you improve your packaging sustainability and potentially even reduce your packaging costs.

8 eco-friendly packaging tips you need to try

1. Conducting a packaging review

While many often think of packaging as a commodity product, it can be the key to unlocking environmental and financial savings.

So, a packaging review is a good place to begin making your packaging more sustainable.  We recommend reviewing the packaging material you’re using, as well as looking at six key areas that packaging touches in your supply chain:

• Storage
• Transport
• Damages and returns
• Productivity
• Administration
• Customer experience

The CO₂ cost of your packaging can be associated to both the material, as well as transport and damages and returns. Using a tool like our Packaging Optimiser can illustrate this and highlight where your sustainability efforts will be most effective.

2. Switching to more sustainable packaging materials

Switching traditional packaging materials with sustainable alternatives can help you reduce your carbon footprint. This might seem like a no brainer – but there are lots of packaging materials available on the market.

The right packaging for you will need to balance product protection with cost and sustainability. Types of packaging you might want to consider include:

• High recycled content packaging materials (like our 100% recycled content double wall boxes or our 50% recycled content air bags).
• Packaging made from renewable resources (e.g. paper cushioning like Geami).
• Compostable packaging and bio-based alternatives. Take note – it’s worth doing your research with packing materials labelled compostable or biodegradable, especially plastic alternatives, as they aren’t all equal and can sometimes need specific conditions to breakdown. Learn more here.
• Packaging that can be easily recycled at kerbside – these materials are more likely to be recycled by end users and therefore can help minimise waste.

3. Reducing Pack Weight to Lower Carbon Emissions

Optimising packaging weight is a simple yet effective strategy to include in your sustainability arsenal. Lighter packages require less energy for transportation, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Exploring ways to protect your product during shipping while minimising the amount of packaging material you use can help you achieve lower pack weights. This not only benefits the environment but can also lead to cost savings where you’re paying carriers and hauliers by weight.

4. Optimising Packaging Design for Efficiency

Rethinking your packaging designs with efficiency in mind can benefit your supply chain and the environment.  

Streamlined packaging not only reduces material usage but also contributes to a more sustainable supply chain. Consider adopting designs that minimise wasted space, enabling more products to be transported in a single shipment and reducing delivery fleet fuel consumption. This will also have a positive effect in reducing your carbon emissions too.  

5. Embracing Minimalism in Packaging

Less is often more when it comes to eco-friendly packaging.

You need to walk the fine line between protecting your product(s) whilst minimising the amount of packaging you use. Embrace minimalism by eliminating unnecessary packaging elements, such as excessive layers or inserts.

Intelligent ways to do this include introducing high-performance packaging materials. These are materials that have been engineered to be lighter or more space efficient but perform at the same high standard of heavier weight material. Alternatively, you could look at reducing the packaging SKUs you use by implementing multi-use packaging that works for many products.

Simplifying packaging not only reduces waste, but also aligns with the preferences of modern consumers who appreciate a clean and straightforward design.

6. Utilising Recycled Content Packaging Materials

We’ve already mentioned that recycled content packaging materials are a good sustainable swap. But why? Well, incorporating recycled content into your packaging materials closes the loop on the recycling process.

Using materials made from post-consumer recycled content, such as recycled paper or cardboard, not only closes the loop, but it can help divert waste from landfill. Manufacturing packaging from recycled content is also less taxing from an emissions point of view. Plus, it helps preserve raw materials.

Click here to learn more about the benefits of recycled content packaging.

7. Encouraging Customer Recycling and Disposal Practices

Do you think about how end users will recycle or repurpose your packaging?

Educate your customers on the eco-friendly features of your packaging and encourage responsible disposal practices. The best way to do this is to clearly communicate how to recycle or properly dispose of the packaging materials by providing recycling instructions.

This might seem like a no brainer, but our latest unboxing research reports that 11% of consumers aren’t sure whether they can recycle packaging due to insufficient labelling.

8. Staying Informed about Evolving Eco-Friendly Solutions

The field of eco-friendly packaging is dynamic, with new innovations emerging regularly.

So, it’s worth staying informed about the latest sustainable packaging solutions and being willing to adapt if needed.

You can stay up to date by subscribing to packaging blogs, visiting packaging-specific news outlets, like Packaging News, or even attending sustainable packaging events relevant to your industry.

Summary

As businesses navigate the evolving landscape of consumer expectations and environmental responsibility, adopting eco-friendly packaging practices is not just a choice but a necessity.

The eight tips provided in this article offer actionable insights that can help you make your packaging more sustainable and enable you to contribute to a healthier planet. From completing a packaging review through to using recycled content materials and reducing your pack weight, the environment can benefit from these changes, and so can you as they can often drive cost savings.

If you need help making your packaging more sustainable, why not get in touch with one of our experts?

The post 8 eco-friendly packaging tips you need to try appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.