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| Did you know that packaging... |
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SAVES MORE WASTE THAN IT CREATES
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For example, without food packaging a modern society could not work. This is demonstrated by the losses incurred when comparing the preparation of fresh produce and that which has been pre-processed. In the case of fresh produce the losses are between 10 and 20% and for processed produce between 0.1 and 1% (Kooijman). |
With the benefits of packaging, refrigeration and transport the losses between grower and consumer are little as 2% in the developed world and without those facilities as much as 44% in the developing world (Wessling). |
It has also been determined that where packaging may not be totally adequate, for every 1% increase of packaging in the waste stream there is a corresponding 1.6% reduction in other wastes (Harvey Alter). In other words, minor improvement in packaging with extra materials will make measurable gains in reducing product losses. |
Packaging ensures that goods survive the hazardous journey through the distribution chain and enabling efficient handling of goods, which in turn keep the cost to consumers down – this is usually taken for granted!
Ten times more energy goes into the production of food and goods it contains than into the packaging itself. |
Packaging makes our modern lifestyle easier. |
CARRIES VITAL INFORMATION |
As well as protecting and preserving goods, packaging carried vital information on ingredients, keeps hazardous products away from children, and ensures goods are safe (where packaging cannot be opened without showing evidence of tampering). |
Remember that when you buy an undamaged carton, packet or tin from a shop, the boxes and crates that carried them securely on trucks and in warehouses are as vital as the cartons, packets and tins themselves in getting the product to you.
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THE INDUSTRY – IS ACTING RESPONSIBLY.
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Most companies that manufacture or use packaging accept that they need to produce and use it in ways that are environmentally, economically and socially responsible.
Industry continues to make packaging easier to use and more convenient while still providing better protection, using less material and generating less waste.
Manufacturers of goods look for a balance between:
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Protecting their goods (the cost of damaged goods or the danger from spoilt foods is far worse for the environment than using a small amount of extra resources to make a stronger pack).
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Protecting public health.
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Protecting the environment.
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Protecting themselves
(by complying with legal demands on health and safety standards).
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Providing what the consumer needs (easy opening packaging for the elderly, smaller portion sizes for people living alone, tamper evidence etc).
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Providing presentation and branding.
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PACKAGING IS A MAJOR
SOURCE OF LITTER... OR IS IT??? |
Packaging may sometimes be the most visible litter but, contrary to popular misconception, it is not the most prevalent. By its nature it catches the eye!
Facts in the UK show that cigarettes and gum, NOT PACKAGING are the major constituents of litter.
Litter is any waste in the wrong place. Individuals create litter through thoughtless and selfish behaviour– a better world starts with you – you can prevent litter!
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PACKAGING ATTRACTS A LOT OF MEDIA ATTENTION |
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And that attention is way out of whack given packaging’s relatively small environmental impact. For example – packaging only uses a fraction of the energy expended in driving a car. Just 3% of a household’s annual energy useage os taken up by packaging.
INCPEN - UK |
THIS WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF.…
”package this thought”….
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If YOU were to drive one less mile a day or turn your thermostat down by 2 degrees, you’d save as much energy as is used to make the packaging for an average household’s whole year’s supply of packaged goods!!
INCPEN - UK |
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