Smurfit Kappa’s sustainability achievements recognised with Colombian award

In a recent Q&A for Sanitary Maintenance magazine, Laura Ashley, Marketing Manager for Resolute Tissue, along with other manufacturers, discusses sustainable tissue and towel options, and what can be done to assist end users with their own green initiatives. What sustainable attributes are most important when differentiating between green towel and tissue options? Ashley: Three key attributes come to mind: fiber source, carbon footprint, and waste stream management. When it comes to fiber source, distributors should recommend options with certified fiber sourcing, recycled fiber (both pre- and post-consumer), certified sources (which can be a combination of certified forest and recycled fiber), and recycled sources both for the product and product packaging (these factors include recyclability, being compostable, and being biodegradable). Regarding waste stream management, this includes all phases of the product life, from production through end use. What selling points should distributors highlight when promoting sustainable towel/tissue options?  Ashley: Distributors, end users and consumers want assurances that their buying decisions represent a sound environmental choice. They are asking for proof that tissue products are made with raw material originating from sustainably managed forests, recycled material, and/or controlled sources. In the North American market, fiber certification gives that proof point.

Sealed Air Corporation is announcing a bold new goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. This announcement follows the company’s successful execution of its sustainability strategy and performance against its 2020 goal to reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of its operations by 25%. The company far exceeded its 2020 goal by achieving more than a 44% reduction. The company is aiming to establish new benchmarks for mitigating environmental and societal risks such as climate change while generating long-term value for stakeholders and society. Among the actions Sealed Air is taking to reduce carbon emissions within the company’s operations, supply chain, and beyond are: *Adopting state-of-the-art technology and innovation for automated packaging solutions and systems, advanced recycling, and recyclable and renewable materials *Continuing investments in renewable energy such as a solar power project in California and a wind power project in Argentina *Improving efficiencies that reduce emissions in global operations for the company and its customers *Contributing to the reduction of waste across the value chain including making improvements to the shelf life of food and reducing food waste, enhancing transportation efficiency, and protecting goods in transit

Recyclability is a crucial aspect of packaging design, referring to the ease with which a material or product can be recycled. This concept differs from recycling, which involves the act of converting waste into new materials. Factors that can impact recyclability include low fibre content, coatings and barriers, inks, varnishes, adhesives, and more. Designing for recyclability is essential in creating a circular economy and has gained significant importance in recent years as businesses and consumers alike strive for sustainable practices.