PACKAGING PARADIGM SHIFT: Developers, legislators and consumers alike are creating momentum to use more sustainable packaging as 2024 unfolds.

Developers, legislators, and consumers are increasingly focused on using more sustainable packaging as the climate crisis continues. The plastic sector alone produces 1.8 billion tons of carbon emissions, highlighting the need for change. Consumer interest in sustainable products is growing, with a 2023 survey finding that 8 out of 10 participants would pay more for sustainably sourced products. Legislation, such as the Break Free from Plastic Pollution bill, aims to establish extended producer responsibility for plastic products. While the transition to paper packaging has benefits, such as recyclability and biodegradability, it also has shortcomings, such as higher energy consumption and increased greenhouse gas emissions during transportation. Reusable packaging is a promising solution, with the potential to reduce emissions, solid waste, and water usage. Italy's compostable packaging recycling rate of 52 percent demonstrates the importance of sufficient recycling infrastructure. Mainetti, a global manufacturer, is leading the way in sustainable packaging solutions and recycling processes. Governments should invest in nationwide material recovery facilities (MRFs) to improve recycling infrastructure, and MRF operators and packaging companies should collaborate to design eco-conscious packaging. Prioritizing the circular economy is crucial for countering the climate crisis and rectifying the historical environmental damage caused by the packaging industry. [Extracted from the article]