Latest news: ESG in packaging 

Aquapak has surveyed 100 UK packaging experts responsible for packaging research and development (R&D), technology, design, and sustainability for FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) brands. 

The report shows that the majority (92%) plan to stop using plastic in their consumer packaging altogether. Paper and paperboard are the replacement materials of choice, along with new polymers, bioplastics and multi-materials. 

Despite the widespread commitment to move away from plastic, the timeframe for transition is still considerable, with 27% of packaging experts forecasting that this will be achieved by 2027, 35% by 2028, and 28% by 2029. 

Just under one-third (30%) described the move to new packaging materials in their FMCG business as too slow, 58% described it as moderate and only 11% said it was fast. The majority (87%) want the replacement of conventional plastics to happen more quickly. 

The Coca-Cola Company has completed the transition to 100% recycled plastic for all 500ml bottles in its sparkling beverage portfolio in Canada, the Globe and Mail reported. This initiative, announced in October last year, excludes the bottle’s caps and labels.  

The new bottles, now produced entirely from recycled material, are manufactured by Coke Canada Bottling across its facilities in Brampton, Calgary, Lachine, and Richmond.   

The transition is expected to save 7.6 million pounds of new plastic in 2024 and cut nearly 7,000 tonnes (t) of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions annually.  

More than three-quarters of packaging professionals (79%) admit they know only a little and/or need help with current and future regulations affecting the sector because of the sheer volume of requirements, according to a survey of senior industry leaders carried out at the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) Impact 2024 conference in New Orleans, US. 

The poll, now in its second year, was conducted by packaging sustainability consultancy Aura among experts from a range of global brands. It found that more than a quarter (27%) are currently unsure if their company is on track to meet its announced sustainability targets. 22% said as much at the first SPC conference in 2023. 

Many brands are also falling behind on data, with three-quarters of packaging industry leaders (76%) admitting their organisation’s data journey has yet to reach the point where they are actively collecting the right data and using it effectively. Meanwhile, almost half (41%) are still collecting data manually – for example, with simple spreadsheets rather than dedicated platforms. 

Packaging leader Amcor and beauty giant Avon have announced the launch of the AmPrima Plus refill pouch for Avon’s Little Black Dress shower gels in China. The new refill pouch boasts significant environmental benefits. 

Made with recyclable materials, it contributes to an 83% reduction in carbon footprint and reductions of 88% and 79% in water consumption and energy usage, respectively, when recycled. 

This innovation aligns with Avon’s ambitious sustainability targets. The company aims to use 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging materials for all its products by 2030. 

Amcor’s research and development team partnered closely with Avon to design this refill pouch. The companies said the AmPrima Plus pouch offers all the functionality and consumer appeal of traditional packaging, including essential barrier properties, durability, and high-quality graphics. It maintains production efficiency with run speeds matching non-recyclable alternatives.