As the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) approaches its finishing line, the carton and cartonboard industry further strengthens its leadership in sustainability and circularity. Years worth of discussions have culminated in a robust legal framework that sets the stage for long-term investment decisions, creating opportunities to advance environmental goals and drive innovation.
At Pro Carton, we firmly support the PPWR, recognising its role in shaping a sustainable future for the entire packaging sector. By building on the proven strengths of cartonboard, we aim to meet ambitious targets whilst addressing today’s environmental challenges.
Leading in circularity
The cartonboard industry has long embraced circularity as the cornerstone of sustainable packaging. Cartonboard, made from renewable resources, is a trusted material with a well-established collection and recycling infrastructure. Significant progress has been achieved in recent years, with CO2e emissions associated with folding carton production reduced by 24% between 2018 and 2021. This reduction reflects the industry’s investments in minimising waste, increasing the share of renewable energy, and managing resources responsibly.
Meanwhile, the Pro Carton “Rethinking Packaging“ – Consumer Survey, 2024 highlights strong consumer confidence in cartonboard packaging, with 88% of respondents trusting the collection and recycling systems in place – a figure that has surpassed glass for the first time, which stands at 85%. This trust is supported by an impressive recycling rate of 83.2%, underscoring the effectiveness of the existing infrastructure.
The cartonboard industry is more determined than ever to push these achievements further, setting an ambitious target to raise the bar and increase the recycling rate to 90% by 2030. This goal is attainable through a collective effort, innovation, and the commitment of all stakeholders in the value chain.
Building on success
Achieving higher recycling rates hinges on several factors that demand attention and action. Firstly, the separate collection of fibre-based materials is essential to maximise recycling results. Ensuring these materials are kept distinct during collection helps avoid contamination, preserving their integrity and suitability for recycling. Effective resource management also plays a vital role. Fibre based materials are valuable also end of life and should never end up in general waste. By strictly separating these materials at the source, they can be efficiently processed and recycled into new packaging, contributing to a circular economy.
Additionally, harmonisation across European collection systems is another key element.
Whilst mandatory collection targets at the country level can help improve recycling rates, they will not always be necessary. A disciplined approach within the value chain – where fibre-based materials are consistently treated as precious resources – can achieve similar results without adding regulatory complexity.
Paving the way forward
The progress made by the cartonboard industry so far is proof that innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to sustainability delivers tangible results.
The industry’s ongoing investments in reducing CO2 emissions and improving resource efficiency align seamlessly with the objectives of the PPWR. Pro Carton members continue to champion these efforts, emphasising the importance of cooperation along the value chain.
By uniting and working together to address challenges, we ensure all fibre-based materials are available for recycling and help to educate those who are unsure.
The path forward demands both encouragement and responsibility. With the support of the PPWR, the industry is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious goals. The trusted nature of cartonboard, combined with its collection and recycling infrastructure, sets a solid foundation for continued progress.
As we strive towards a 90% recycling rate by 2030, the cartonboard sector exemplifies what is possible when sustainability is prioritised. Through collaborative efforts, we reaffirm our role as leaders in circularity, making a positive impact on the environment and setting a benchmark for others to follow.
