The global packaging industry can be divided into several categories based on the different types of materials used, such as plastic, paper and board, glass, and metal, among many others. Whilst each of these materials has its own set of advantages, disadvantages, and applications; sustainability is becoming increasingly important for the packaging industry, with life-cycle analyses and efficiency optimization being used to inform packaging decisions and reduce environmental impact.
Another considerable challenge facing the global packaging industry is the growing pressure on the plastic packaging industry to improve its environmental performance. Although many plastics are technically recyclable, only a small amount gets recycled globally due to various barriers, and as a result, there has been increased consumer criticism of the excessive use of plastic packaging. As such, these challenges may serve to impact the packaging industry as a whole and open new possibilities for packaging industry agents who can innovate and collaborate with their customers to offer new sustainable packaging solutions.
Sustainable packaging options
Overall, sustainable packaging solutions encompass a wide array of methods and materials, all aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting a more environmentally sustainable future. Some examples include biodegradable packaging, made from plant-based materials; compostable packaging, that can be converted into nutrient-rich soil; recycled packaging, made from post-consumer waste; reusable packaging systems; and minimalist packaging designs, that reduce waste and carbon footprint. In 2023, the global sustainable packaging market was valued at approximately 271.86 billion U.S. dollars and is expected to exceed 393 billion U.S. dollars by 2028; with the sustainable plastic packaging market alone expected to reach 143.7 billion U.S. dollars by 2030.Challenges and opportunities for the packaging industry
The global packaging industry is undergoing several major changes in response to different challenges and opportunities. One of these changes is the transformation of the pulp and paper industry, which has shifted its focus from graphic paper to packaging, tissue, and bioproducts. The production of graphic paper increased from 30 million metric tons in 1961 to 154 million metric tons in 2007, but due to digitalization, this segment has now declined by over one-third. On the other hand, while graphic paper production has been declining, the pulp and paper industry can be seen to have expanded its presence in the containerboard market and has therefore been able to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. As a result, the global demand for containerboard is expected to increase by almost 30 percent in the next decade, reaching 226 million tons by 2032. Overall, the relative sustainability of paper packaging products depends on the source of fibers used to produce them: whether deforestation is at stake or if the fibers have been sourced from recycled paper products or sustainable forestry practices.Another considerable challenge facing the global packaging industry is the growing pressure on the plastic packaging industry to improve its environmental performance. Although many plastics are technically recyclable, only a small amount gets recycled globally due to various barriers, and as a result, there has been increased consumer criticism of the excessive use of plastic packaging. As such, these challenges may serve to impact the packaging industry as a whole and open new possibilities for packaging industry agents who can innovate and collaborate with their customers to offer new sustainable packaging solutions.
