Resources
Sustainable Material Playbook
A practical framework for material optimization: reduce excess usage, improve recyclability fit, and maintain line performance.
Overview
A practical framework for material optimization: reduce excess usage, improve recyclability fit, and maintain line performance.
Reduction Before Substitution
Start by removing unnecessary material and process complexity before changing resin or board type.
Operational Compatibility
Evaluate sustainability options against sealing, print, transit, and shelf-life constraints.
Measured Improvement
Track baseline versus updated outcomes by SKU and by process stage.
Material Decision Framework
The playbook uses a four-step framework: baseline assessment, redesign options, pilot validation, and controlled rollout.
Validation Criteria
Each material proposal should pass mechanical, print, sealing, and logistics checks before approval for scale.
- Drop and compression compatibility
- Seal integrity under line speed variability
- Print quality and coding reliability
- Storage and transport condition resilience
Implementation Notes
Use phased conversion by SKU priority. Start with high-volume SKUs where waste reduction or damage reduction can be measured quickly.
Featured Lower-Petroleum Formats
Start the library with the paper-first and fiber-led formats teams ask about most
These four visuals give buyers a fast way to compare lower-polymer bags, paper-led pouches, recycled board cartons, and molded pulp inserts.
Paper-First Valve Bags
Paper-first valve bags for UK teams cutting polymer use while ensuring fill control, pallet behaviour, and commercial viability.
Paper-Based Pouch Pathways
Paper-based pouch pathways for UK programmes pursuing lower-plastic packaging with due regard for seal integrity, barrier suitability, and packing-line practicality.
Recycled-Content Board Cartons
Recycled board cartons for UK programmes ensuring board strength, print performance, and supply stability support recycled-content targets.
Moulded Pulp Inserts
Moulded pulp inserts for UK retail and transit packs substituting selected foam or rigid plastic with fibre-led protection where appropriate.