Packaging: a global challenge for the environment?

Cardboard, plastic and paper are often described as “bad for the environment”, but do we really understand why? By analyzing the stages of manufacture, use and recycling, we can better understand their environmental impact and look for more sustainable alternatives.

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What does packaging mean?

Before going any further, it's important to define the term “packaging”. It refers to all the techniques used to package and wrap a product.
Its role is manifold: firstly, it protects the product, informs the consumer and, secondly, plays a marketing role by attracting the consumer's attention and conveying the brand image.

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How is the carbon footprint of a packaging calculated?

To calculate the carbon footprint of a packaging, several factors are analyzed:

• Raw materials used : Extracting and processing natural resources consumes a great deal of energy.‍
• The manufacturing process: Production plants generate greenhouse gas emissions.‍
• Transportation: Transporting packaging to consumers also generates greenhouse gas emissions.‍
• The life cycle: This encompasses the length of use, the possibility of reuse and the recycling process.

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Alarming figures on packaging use

Studies reveal the extent of the environmental impact of packaging, particularly cardboard.

According to Planetoscope., 2,550 kg of cardboard packaging is used every second worldwide. This equates to billions of cartons every year, to which other materials are often added to protect the products inside, amplifying the environmental impact.

In 2022 alone, 414 million tonnes of paper and cardboard will be consumed worldwide.

Plastic, although easy to produce, is one of the most polluting materials. 1 kg of plastic emits 3.5 kg of CO2, a figure that illustrates the challenges posed by its massive use.

Cardboard is often seen as a greener alternative to plastic, but its durability remains limited. On average, cardboard can be reused around ten times. After that, it is generally thrown away or recycled, processes which also require energy and resources.

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Rethinking packaging: a necessity in the face of ecological challenges

It's becoming clear that producing, recycling and restarting is no longer enough. What was once necessary packaging is now a cost to the planet. Faced with this realization, it's important to rethink our packaging practices and adopt greener solutions suitable for everyone, from individual consumers to businesses.

Reusable packaging represents a promising alternative for reducing our environmental footprint. These alternatives offer numerous advantages: reduced waste, economies of scale and, above all, reduced environmental impact. Adopting these solutions represents a step towards a more sustainable and responsible future.