Although environmental awareness is increasing among the population, according to Greenpeace, around 12.7 million tonnes of plastic waste still end up in the world's oceans every year, and the trend is rising. At the same time, however, regulatory changes, the use of initiatives and changing consumer behaviour are increasing efforts to produce more sustainable packaging and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
Bosch Packaging Technology recognised the need early on and launched the first sealed paper packaging, including a machine concept, back in 2016. But that's not all: the company has been involved in various consortia for many years. One of these is EIT Food, Europe's leading initiative for food innovation, which aims to make the food system more sustainable, healthier and more trustworthy.
Holistic approach along the value chain
As one of a total of around 50 partners from the fields of innovation, education and entrepreneurship, Bosch Packaging Technology has been involved in EIT Food active. The innovation initiative brings together players from all areas of innovation, education and business to create a shared vision and agenda for the future of food. As one of the few companies from the mechanical engineering sector, Bosch Packaging Technology plays an important role in transferring the developed materials and packaging styles into real production.
„No matter how sophisticated and sustainable the packaging is, what use is it if it cannot be processed or filled economically and with the necessary output on the appropriate machines“
„At EIT Food, we are already involved in the innovation and product development phase and can incorporate our experience into the holistic approach along the value chain.“
Matthias Klauser, Project Manager and Sustainability Expert at Bosch Packaging Technology
„inPaper“: paper-based trays for confectionery and chilled products
In various projects, the EIT Food Partners are working with start-ups and innovation leaders to develop new concepts for a more sustainable food industry. A glance at the chiller cabinet or the confectionery section in supermarkets shows that paper-based packaging can set itself apart from competing products.
The EIT Food project led by Matthias Klauser „inPaper“ is working on the development of paper-based trays for confectionery and chilled products, taking into account all barrier requirements, with the aim of significantly reducing the use of fossil raw materials compared to conventional packaging solutions. The concept phase has already been completed and initial consumer surveys have been conducted. The project partners are currently working on the technical realisation of the interests of manufacturers, retailers and consumers.
Digitalisation: great potential for sustainability
At the same time, Bosch Packaging Technology is working on a machine for three-dimensional paper moulding. In addition to the „inPaper“ project, the company is also involved within EIT Food in the area of education and Digitisation. From Matthias Klauser's point of view, the combination of the subject areas Sustainability and Industry 4.0 great potential:
„Digitalisation opens up completely new possibilities for making processes in packaging production and processing more sustainable“
„For example, various types of waste along the value chain can be identified and eliminated more quickly. Production rejects can be reduced through better operator guidance and faster response times. This saves costs in the long term and ensures a lower environmental impact.“
Matthias Klauser, Project Manager and Sustainability Expert at Bosch Packaging Technology
Source: Bosch Packaging Technology
