Sustainability has become one of the most prominent topics in the global packaging industry. It has captured the attention of consumers, retailers, brands, NGOs, and regulatory bodies. Many countries worldwide have implemented or are considering adapting legislation to align with the principles of a circular economy. These changes are driving transformations in packaging. For example, in Spain, there are stricter regulations and mandatory recycling rates for single-use plastics imposed on brand owners in 2023, and more regulations are expected in the coming years.
Sustainable packaging is no longer a choice for brands or consumers; it has become a strict governmental mandate.
Many materials used in packaging are based on fossil fuels and non-recyclable materials, which are or will be banned by 2030. Companies face significant taxes and fines for packaging that is not reused or recycled. Currently, new laws related to these restrictions can be observed in countries worldwide. However, there is currently no general standard for all countries, making it complex for exporting companies to navigate the diverse laws and directives. In Europe, there is no unified directive, and each country adapts it to their own laws, which lack harmonization. There is a plan for unification, but agreement has not been reached yet.
There are three key levers to consider for packaging in the coming years. governmental regulation, recycled fibers, and smart packaging. Here's a brief explanation of each
Currently, the establishment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems in developed markets has led to a growing prevalence of regulations related to climate change that affect packaging materials, such as Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated June 5, 2019, on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, which serves as a basis for creating specific laws and directives in EU member countries.
Currently, the establishment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems in developed markets has led to a growing prevalence of regulations related to climate change that affect packaging materials, such as Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated June 5, 2019, on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, which serves as a basis for creating specific laws and directives in EU member countries.
Currently, the use of recycled fiber in food contact applications has been hindered by safety and food migration concerns, and there is a lack of clear legal regulations.
In the coming years, it is expected that the ability to market recycled fibers that are safe for food will be approved by each country's Food Safety and Nutrition Agency and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), with improvements in recycling technology and better supply chain traceability, enabling the safe use of recycled fiber in food applications.
Today, consumers find it difficult to be informed about the environmental impact and proper disposal of the materials used.
In the future, we will have intelligent packaging that will allow consumers to make sustainable choices with informed decisions and improve traceability throughout the entire value chain.
In conclusion, our vision is that in the coming years, consumers will not have to choose between sustainability and convenience. They will expect both. Brands will need packaging solutions that offer good options without compromising convenience and performance.
By 2030, sustainability will not be a brand choice but a strict government mandate. Materials and types of packaging that do not meet the available environmental performance thresholds will cease to exist.
By 2030, consumers will perceive fiber-based packaging as the most sustainable solution, and recycling, reuse, and composting will increase. However, it is estimated that 21% of all food packaging will still end up in landfills and incineration, and approximately 20% of packaging will be used as compost in households worldwide.
Packaging will continue to play an essential role for brands, protecting the product and serving as a brand visibility and promotional tool through highly personalized campaigns and immersive technology.