A new report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation analyses the role of paper-based flexible packaging in the fight against plastic waste. According to the report, such solutions could contribute to reducing environmental pollution, particularly in markets with high leakage rates of plastic waste - but only under certain design and system conditions.
The report analyses the role that paper-based flexible packaging could play in reducing small-format plastic packaging in the future. According to the study, flexible plastic packaging is at the centre of the global debate on plastic pollution, as it is often difficult to collect and recycle and therefore often ends up in the environment.
Paper-based alternatives with opportunities and limitations
According to the authors, paper-based flexible packaging can be a building block within a comprehensive circular economy strategy. However, the prerequisite is that such solutions are designed responsibly and can be integrated into existing waste and recycling systems.
The report also emphasises that paper-based alternatives are not automatically more sustainable than plastic. They therefore bring both potential benefits and risks, for example in terms of raw material procurement, recyclability or possible coatings and barrier layers.
Six criteria for responsible packaging design
The study formulates six key criteria that should be taken into account when developing paper-based flexible packaging. These include responsible raw material sourcing, maximising recyclability and avoiding problematic chemicals.
The report also sees a need for innovation along the entire value chain. New material solutions, better recycling technologies and suitable collection and waste systems are crucial to being able to utilise paper-based flexible packaging on a larger scale.
Scaling requires cooperation between industry and politics
In order to roll out appropriate packaging solutions more broadly, the report calls for close cooperation between companies, politics and research. In addition to technological innovations, clear framework conditions and investments in waste management systems are necessary in order to actually reduce environmental impacts.
The authors emphasise that paper-based flexible packaging can only make a contribution to combating plastic pollution if it is part of a holistic approach to a functioning circular economy.
Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
