In an era where sustainability and environmental protection are becoming core values of modern society, the packaging industry and sustainable packaging are under particular scrutiny. Plastic, though often demonized for its environmental impact, remains a key material in the world of packaging. Its lightness, durability, and low cost are invaluable advantages — but precisely these qualities have led to its widespread use and, consequently, to pollution. However, the future of plastics can be much greener if we learn to manage them properly.
Plastic – Indispensable yet problematic
In the European Union, as much as 40% of all plastic produced ends up in the packaging industry. Plastic is an extremely popular material due to its versatility, light weight, and resistance to moisture and chemicals. These properties help protect products effectively from damage, environmental influences, and contamination, which results in less waste and fewer losses in the supply chain.
However, plastic also has a dark side — its long decomposition time and challenges in waste management. One of the biggest problems with plastic is its long life cycle: most plastic products, if not properly recycled, remain in the environment for hundreds of years. This poses a serious threat to ecosystems, human health, and the planet’s long-term sustainability.
The role of recycling in reducing environmental impact
One of the most effective approaches to reducing the negative impact of plastic is recycling and reusing it in production. In recent years, the rate of recycled plastic usage in the industry has been increasing rapidly. According to Plastics Europe, 54 million tons of plastic were produced in the EU in 2023, with recycled plastic accounting for 14.8% of that total. This is a significant step forward, but far from the final goal.
Environmental benefits of recycled plastic:
Waste and Emissions Reduction: One ton of recycled plastic saves approximately 5,774 kWh of energy and more than 16 barrels of oil. Transitioning to 70% recycling of plastic packaging could reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 3.5 million tons annually.
Less Landfill Waste: Recycled plastic takes up to 30 m³ less space in landfills compared to virgin plastic.
More Efficient Use of Resources: Recycling reduces the need for extracting and processing new raw materials, easing environmental pressure and lowering energy dependency. The use of recycled materials also helps companies meet increasingly strict EU environmental regulations and targets. It improves brand image as consumers increasingly value sustainable products and packaging. At the same time, the growing recycling market presents business opportunities through job creation and the development of innovative products
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic in Sustainable Packaging
| Plastic – Advantages | Plastic – Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Durability and mechanical strength | Long decomposition time |
| Cost efficiency | High environmental impact when misused |
| Lightweight and lower transportation costs | Negative public perception |
| Resistance to moisture and chemical influences | Difficult recycling of certain types |
| Recyclability when properly sorted |
1. Stretch films with recycled content
Stretch films are widely used in logistics. They are made from LDPE, which is 100% recyclable. Due to their light weight and recyclability, stretch films are an environmentally friendly packaging choice. Their production is clean and requires low energy consumption, further contributing to their sustainability. These films are used to protect and stabilize products during transport, offering excellent cling and flexibility. They also enable efficient packaging, reducing material use and costs.
When producing stretch films with recycled content, it is often necessary to use slightly thicker material or combine it with virgin PE to achieve the same mechanical properties. Still, the updated stretch film reduces waste and conserves natural resources.
We offer stretch films containing up to 60% recycled plastic from post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial (PIR) sources. All films with recycled content are certified, ensuring actual recycled material use without compromising stretchability or strength.
Available recycled stretch film types:
PCR30: Made with 30% post-consumer recycled plastic
PCR60: Made with 60% post-consumer recycled plastic
PIR30: Made with 30% post-industrial recycled plastic
PIR60: Made with 60% post-industrial recycled plastic
Using these films means reduced raw material use, lower emissions, and less waste—without compromising quality. All films are properly certified.
2. Zero Waste films
These are films without a cardboard core—eliminating unnecessary waste. Lighter rolls reduce transport costs, energy consumption, and CO₂ emissions. They also require no special handling for disposal, lowering company costs.
Coreless (zero waste) films maintain the same quality and efficiency as those with cardboard cores. The lighter rolls are easier to handle and safer to use. Without the core, they’re more cost-effective, avoiding green taxes and disposal fees. They also lower transport costs, emissions, and water and energy usage. Using them is a step toward a more sustainable future.
3. CO₂ neutral films
Some manufacturers have already developed LDPE films that are CO₂ neutral, meaning the emissions from production are offset through environmental programs such as reforestation or investments in renewable energy.
4. Cover films and sheets from LDPE, MDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE
In today’s fast-changing logistics environment, cover films are essential for protecting goods from dust, moisture, mechanical damage, and other external factors. We offer a wide range of cover films and sheets from LDPE, MDPE, HDPE, and LLDPE tailored to diverse industrial needs.
We provide high quality, customizable dimensions, printing options, and a choice of thicknesses and materials.
Standard and customized options include:
- In rolls or pre-cut sheets,
- Transparent, black, or colored,
- Additives for UV resistance, anti-static properties, or slip resistance,
- With anti-corrosion protection (VCI films) Heat-shrinkable films,
- Custom printing (logos, instructions, warnings),
- With ventilation holes,
- Perforated for easy separation
Polyethylene films are lightweight, easy to use, and provide reliable protection with minimal material use—leading to lower packaging costs and less waste. All materials are 100% recyclable, enabling more sustainable operations and easier compliance with environmental regulations. The variety of PE types allows for the optimal choice depending on the application—from delicate product protection to robust industrial covering.
5. Strapping bands (PP and PET)
PP Straps: Polypropylene straps are a cost-effective solution for bundling lighter products and pallets. They are 100% recyclable, allowing for complete reuse. PP straps are versatile and customizable, with printing options available.
PET Straps: Polyester straps are used as an alternative to steel straps for bundling medium-weight goods or pallets. These eco-friendly PET straps are designed to reduce energy consumption during production while maintaining performance. Our range includes green PET straps with longer coil lengths, reducing the need for additional materials (e.g., cardboard cores, transport).
Strapping bands made from recycled PET are already standard in many industries. They offer the same strength and safety as virgin plastic straps while being a more sustainable option.
6. Paper and gummed kraft adhesive tapes
Conventional adhesive tapes (e.g., PVC, PP, or PET with adhesive backing) are problematic for recycling. Adhesives and bonded layers lower the purity of recycled materials and make sorting difficult. Double-sided adhesives or PVC layers can hinder recyclability altogether.
The best ecological and sustainable alternative to conventional tape is paper-based tape or fully natural gummed kraft tape, made from natural materials and starch-based adhesive. These allow for easy recycling and reduce the carbon footprint. Water-activated tapes ensure strong, reliable sealing without harmful chemicals or plastic.
7. Plastic pallets made from recyclate
Plastic pallets made from 100% recycled plastic are a durable alternative to wooden pallets. They are lighter, moisture-resistant, and have a significantly longer lifespan. At the end of their life cycle, they can be fully recycled—an ideal choice for sustainable logistics.
Challenges of transitioning to sustainable materials and packaging
Despite the clear benefits of recycled materials, some challenges remain:
- Quality and performance: Recycled materials must meet the same technical standards as virgin ones, requiring advanced technology and precise raw material mixing.
- Costs: Initial investments in new materials and production lines can be higher.
- Material availability: Recycled plastic is not yet available in all regions or for all packaging types.
- Public perception: Despite recycling benefits, plastic has a poor reputation. Consumer communication must be clear and transparent.
- EU Legislation and the future of packaging: The European Union is setting increasingly strict sustainability targets. By 2030, all packaging materials in the EU must be fully recyclable. Companies will be required to use higher percentages of recycled materials, promote reuse, and reduce carbon footprints across product life cycles. Environmental taxes on unsustainable materials and financial incentives for adopting green solutions are also expected.
- Business benefits of sustainable approaches:
- Competitive advantage: Environmentally responsible companies are more attractive to consumers and partners.
- Lower long-term costs: Less waste, lower energy bills, and fewer fines for non-compliance.
- Market opportunity: The growing sustainable packaging market enables new business models and innovation.
- Brand reputation: A green image builds customer trust and loyalty.
Every Package // Every Pallet Counts
The shift toward sustainable packaging is not just a trend—it’s a necessity. Using recycled plastic in final packaging is one of the most effective steps companies can take to reduce environmental impact while improving performance and competitiveness. The green transition doesn’t happen overnight, but every choice matters. Every recycled film, reusable strap, and eliminated core means fewer emissions, less waste—and one step closer to a sustainable future.