When considering the transition towards a more sustainable packaging option, one would find that there are many available options and suppliers in/on the market. Consequently, choosing/developing the right materials strategy in the context of your products and the market is not an easy choice - as it depends on the market itself, the area in which the product will be distributed, the field, and of course, on the product itself.

As a circular economy and sustainable packaging specialist, we can assess your materials strategy options and the potential for circularity in your decision-making process through four main approaches:

• Reducing: Reducing the packaging material as much as you can, so you will be able to reduce costs in raw material procurement as well as energy consumption at the manufacturing site and during transportation.
• Recycling: Going for recycle-ready solutions and/or introducing a percentage (by weight) of recycled materials into your packaging.
• Reusing: In many cases, a reuse model could be the best option to pursue, especially when the distance between customers and retail outlets is a key consideration.
• Composting/Biodegradability: Another option is the use of renewable materials. However, before going for that option, it is important to understand whether it is bio-based but not compostable, and if it is compostable, if it is 'industrial' or 'domestic' in terms of its compostability. Further, linked to this is making sure that the materials meet the requirements of the international standards before branding with eco-labels.

Taking into account all of these options, the market, your company, and your product, PACK can perform market analyses, technical assessments of the different options available, and issue sound recommendations advising on which option(s) may be the most suitable for you.