As Recycle Week (October 14-20, 2024) approaches, Pro Carton is highlighting the vital role of fibre-based packaging in creating a more sustainable UK. With the world focused on reducing waste, the packaging industry has a chance to take the lead, and materials like paper and cartonboard are key to this effort.
A recent Pro Carton survey shows that 86% of UK consumers feel confident in identifying recyclable packaging. This translates to strong trust in the recyclability of materials like corrugated board (91% confidence) and cartonboard (86% confidence), which demonstrates widespread support for existing collection and recycling systems and highlights the eco-friendly nature of these materials.
“Recycling is one of the best ways to deal with packaging waste, and sorting it properly is key,” says Winfried Mühling, Marketing & Communications Director, Pro Carton. “We urgently need to improve how we separate packaging waste in the UK. Countries like Germany and Switzerland are leading the way, with strict separation of fibre-based materials like cardboard and newspapers/magazines. By separating packaging for recycling, we avoid recontamination and secure best quality when arriving at the mill for recycling. We want all fibre material back for recycling, we have to avoid throwing valuable fibre-based packaging in the general waste. Then likely the fibre material will be lost for recycling.
“Fibre based packaging end of life is a valuable resource for us. It’s not just experts who think this way. Our survey also reveals that consumers are willing to pay an average of 5.7% more for sustainably packaged products. This willingness to invest in eco-friendly options proves that consumer demand for sustainable packaging is here to stay.”
He concludes, “This Recycle Week, Pro Carton urges everyone to support fibre-based packaging as the best choice for a sustainable future. By working together, we can build a circular economy where packaging is a valuable resource, not just waste.”
