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SPC Sustainable Packaging Definition
Author: Marcelo_Paulino on Wednesday, May 12, 2010



In 2005, the SPC completed version 1.0 of the Definition of Sustainable Packaging. This definition represents an important first step in articulating a common understanding of the term sustainable packaging. It provides a common vision and a framework for understanding activities directed toward improving packaging and continues to inform the future vision of the coalition and its individual member-companies. Sustainable packaging:

  • Is beneficial, safe & healthy for individuals and communities throughout its life cycle;
  • Meets market criteria for performance and cost;
  • Is sourced, manufactured, transported, and recycled using renewable energy;
  • Optimizes the use of renewable or recycled source materials;
  • Is manufactured using clean production technologies and best practices;
  • Is made from materials healthy in all probable end of life scenarios;
  • s physically designed to optimize materials and energy;
  • Is effectively recovered and utilized in biological and/or industrial closed loop cycles.

The Sustainable Packaging Coalition is focused on raising awareness of the sustainability issues related to packaging, as well as fostering the development of tools, resources, partnerships, and strategies to address them. Through meetings, projects, and participation in a range of external outreach events, the Coalition is working to catalyze the discussion about sustainable packaging and support efforts to achieve it.

What do you think about this definition? What’s your definition for Sustainable Packaging?

Category: | 1 Comment

1 comments to “SPC Sustainable Packaging Definition”

  1. Dave May 14, 2010 at 9:07 AM

    I think this is an excellent description and appreciate it as I am new in the business. I want to make a difference in this area and believe any process we can improve on will make a difference.

    To that end I asked for a job with a company manufacturing Spring water in PLA bottles. I believe PLA where not perfect will accomplish a goal of my premise that we need to start somewhere, to start cleaning up our act.

    I would like to stay tuned to this Sustainable Opportunity in that I feel it will take a concerted effort to create change.