Insights from the Pack & Plast Conference

Posted 2023-11-30

Last Thursday, our Innovation Manager, Mats Jeppsson attended the Pack & Plast conference in Malmö where he was one of the speakers. The conference tackled pivotal questions, such as the challenges and opportunities presented by new packaging directives, strategies for achieving circular plastic use, the impact of legislation on packaging choices, developments in materials and packaging, the market for bioplastics, and the potential of fiber as a substitute for plastics.

Read Mats’ summary and key insights from the conference below.

A holistic approach and a positive industry path

The conference emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to packaging, highlighting the latest updates of the proposal for The packaging and packaging waste regulation (PPWR). Simultaneously, industry experts stressed the transformative impact of collaboration in fostering innovation and addressing collective challenges within the packaging ecosystem.

Discussions highlighted the significance of sustainable practices, emphasizing the prioritization of recycled materials and alignment with broader environmental goals. This commitment included strategies to extend the lifecycle of packaging materials, promoting a culture of reuse and waste reduction. There was also a consensus on the positive industry path, expressing optimism for future growth. The conversation delved into a nuanced discussion challenging negative perceptions of plastic, exploring ways to reduce its environmental impact while acknowledging its functional benefits.

A cultural shift and material diversification in packaging

The event promoted a culture of innovation by recognizing mistakes as valuable learning opportunities and creating an environment where experimentation and continuous improvement drive industry progress. This culture of innovation was reflected in the nuanced discussion surrounding the sustainability of paper versus plastic, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the right material in the appropriate context.

The unveiling of cutting-edge packaging solutions showcased the industry’s commitment to diversifying materials. This demonstrated a strategic approach to meet diverse consumer needs while prioritizing sustainability. A particularly notable highlight was the introduction of a new dry-formed fiber manufacturing method, indicating a positive shift towards more environmental and resource-efficient practices.

Environmental considerations and efficient design

The conference addressed the environmental impact of printing inks, urging the industry to consider and adopt more environmentally sustainable ink options in packaging design. This call for environmental consciousness was accompanied by advocacy for efficiency and minimalism in packaging design, urging a critical evaluation of packaging elements to reduce waste while maintaining essential functions.

Embracing sustainable future trends

You could tell that all attendees value staying informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes, positioning themselves proactively for future challenges and opportunities. This forward-thinking approach was complemented by an emphasis on consciously choosing recycled materials, contributing to the development of a circular economy.

The event also highlighted functional value and circular economy initiatives in packaging. Ensuring that packaging materials meet essential functional requirements without compromising environmental considerations emerged as a significant focus.

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