Sustainable packaging solutions of 2011
Sustainability in packaging has been a hot topic with much recent attention and discussion, as consumer demand for sustainable packaging as a result of increased environmental awareness, is driving the industry to create and develop novel packaging solutions, which are green.
Shiseido commits
Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido unveiled its environmental initiative recently with the focus on sustainable packaging materials.
Shiseido’s initiative includes the use of plant-based containers and bagasse paper, which is naturally derived from the remaining fibrous matter after sugarcane is produced.
Initially, the focus will be on shampoo and body care packaging made from sugarcane-based polyethylene*4 material, according to the company.
The use of bagasse paper will be implemented after 2012, for both new and renewable products that use paper as part of its packaging.
L’Oréal’s recycled glass
In a similar vein, L’Oréal has teamed up with Gerresheimer on the use of recycled glass for product use that is just as good as new glass.
The two companies are to develop cosmetic packaging glass containing 40 per cent recycled glass; according to L’Oréal brand Garnier, the use of 40 per cent recycled glass reduces production energy requirements by 9 percent. This lower melting furnace energy requirement reduces CO2 emissions during the production process by 29 tons.
The use of recycled glass in the jars also means that fewer non-renewable natural resources are consumed.
Pantene plant packaging
P&G’s Pantene has produced shampoo and conditioner bottles made primarily from plant-based plastic.
Made from sugarcane, it is a natural and renewable resource, which uses up to 70 per cent less fossil fuels and releases over 170 per cent less greenhouse gases per ton than traditional petroleum-based plastic.
By using renewable resources, such as sugarcane-based plastic, Pantene is supporting P&G’s goal of replacing 25 per cent of petroleum-based materials with sustainably sourced renewable materials by 2020. P&G’s long term vision is to use 100 per cent renewable or recycled materials on all of its products.
