The utilization of recycled materials in packaging is a very complex process. First, the input material is far more diverse than just different polymers. There are colors, decorations, production types, contamination, additives, etc., that determine the group of materials. Furthermore, the packaged product, even as nonfood grade packaging, is very specific in terms of the type of material needed. After all, the application demands the polymer. Therefore, how can we come from the very complex waste stream to the very narrow application window, ideally for food grade? This chapter provides an overview of the different approaches and hurdles to producing sustainable packaging and reducing CO2 emissions. In it, the tasks of packaging are considered, and how these align with sustainability rules. With this in mind, circular packaging is also within the scope of this chapter, how loops and reuse can help to extend the life span of packaging, and what this means in terms of sustainability. At the end, the legal side, which fosters or prevents technologies and helps to reduce the risk of new packaging materials, is given closer consideration.

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Sustainable Packaging: A Packaging Producer’s View

  • Stephan Laske,
  • Konrad Wasserbauer,
  • Dieter Pölz,
  • Markus Lehner

摘要

The utilization of recycled materials in packaging is a very complex process. First, the input material is far more diverse than just different polymers. There are colors, decorations, production types, contamination, additives, etc., that determine the group of materials. Furthermore, the packaged product, even as nonfood grade packaging, is very specific in terms of the type of material needed. After all, the application demands the polymer. Therefore, how can we come from the very complex waste stream to the very narrow application window, ideally for food grade? This chapter provides an overview of the different approaches and hurdles to producing sustainable packaging and reducing CO2 emissions. In it, the tasks of packaging are considered, and how these align with sustainability rules. With this in mind, circular packaging is also within the scope of this chapter, how loops and reuse can help to extend the life span of packaging, and what this means in terms of sustainability. At the end, the legal side, which fosters or prevents technologies and helps to reduce the risk of new packaging materials, is given closer consideration.