PPWR challenges and Sonoco’s solutions
The global packaging waste crisis is a growing challenge, with projections indicating a significant increase in waste generation in the coming years. In response to this escalating issue, the European Union has introduced the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This legislation pushes businesses to rethink their packaging strategies, setting ambitious targets to prevent waste, foster reuse, and boost recycling rates, while balancing all this with product safety.
What is the real impact of the PPWR likely to be? Innovation in sustainable packaging solutions. And its main goal? Transformation of industry practices to prevent waste proliferation. The ultimate result? To shift from environmental threat to opportunity, reshaping our packaging future.
By 2025, we must recycle 65% of packaging waste, rising to 70% by 2030. While the exact timeline for implementation varies across countries, the regulation’s impact on businesses is undeniable. The regulation’s impact is far-reaching, affecting everything from design and production to end-of-life management of packaging materials.
Innovative solutions from Sonoco
As businesses prepare to adjust to these new demands, innovative solutions are emerging. Sonoco, a global leader in the packaging sector, has developed sustainable packaging solutions that address the PPWR’s ambitious goals while ensuring products reach consumers safely. Sonopost and Edge Board represent a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to packaging—one that prioritises sustainability without compromising on protection, safety and functionality.
Sonopost: a sustainable alternative to EPSExpanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging has posed multiple environmental challenges for decades. Sonopost, a protective packaging solution, offers a sustainable alternative.
Manufactured from 100% recycled paper and proprietary techniques honed over 20 years, Sonopost utilises biodegradable glue. Sourced from Sonoco’s European mill network, Sonopost can be disposed of through kerbside collection, significantly cutting end-of-life waste.
This EPS-free packaging solution provides robust protection without compromising sustainability. It is ideal for heavy duty packaging like white goods.
A recent case study highlights Sonopost’s effectiveness: a customer sought EPS-free packaging for white goods for a 40 kg dishwasher, Sonoco designed a solution combining Sonopost with a base made of corrugated and honeycomb materials. The result, including plastic-free packaging, offered exceptional protection while aligning perfectly with PPWR requirements. It showcased a perfect blend of sustainability and functionality.
Sonopost’s benefits extend beyond environmental considerations. Its superior stacking strength and crush resistance allow for more efficient logistics.
Edge Board: robust protection, sustainable materials
Sonoco’s Edge Board is another protective solution in pallet protection and edge safeguarding. These paper edge protectors are fully recyclable and provide critical protection during transit and storage. It is versatile, adaptable to various industries, and easy to apply, making it a practical choice for companies seeking PPWR compliance.
The environmental friendliness of Edge Board aligns perfectly with PPWR objectives. By reducing the need for more packaging and offering full recyclability, it helps businesses decrease their packaging waste and environmental impact.
Meeting PPWR challenges with Sonoco products
As the 2030 deadline approaches and consumers become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, the demand for sustainable packaging solutions will only continue to grow. Sonoco, with its focus on innovation and sustainability, is leading the charge in transforming the packaging industry. The success of its product lines demonstrates that effective, protective packaging and environmental responsibility can indeed coexist.
Forward-thinking businesses should explore solutions like Sonopost and Edge Board to stay ahead of regulatory requirements while contributing to a more sustainable future.
To learn more about Sonopost, click here >
To learn more about Edge Board, click here >