“Earth Overshoot Day marks the day that humanity’s demand for natural resources and services in any given year exceeds what the earth can regenerate in that year,” says Tony Hitchin, General Manager, Pro Carton. “In 2020, global lockdown in the face of the pandemic saw the day shift back to 22nd August. However, the re-opening of world economies means this year Earth Overshoot Day has come forward to 29th July!”
He continues, “We are undoubtedly in the middle of a climate emergency. The devastating floods in Germany and Belgium, which have taken over 100 lives and left thousands homeless, have raised the profile of the issue to all of us living in Europe. This is happening on our doorstep and we must do more. Our recent research found that almost all European adults believe that governments (96%), as well as retailers and brands (96%), should be doing more to help the environment. It’s time for every citizen, business and brand to start making better choices – about the products they buy, the materials they use and how they dispose of those materials. This applies equally to the packaging we use.
Hitchin concludes, “Paper-based packaging such as cartonboard for example, is recyclable, re-useable and made from wood grown in sustainably grown European forests, so is the perfect example of the circular economy. Clearly, we need to change our habits and take responsibility for our actions. Support Earth Overshoot Day by choosing renewable materials wherever possible and help in the bid to #MovetheDate”
