Packaging Innovation
The development of new packaging materials, formats, and systems that improve environmental performance. Innovation in packaging is incentivised by EPR fee structures that reward better recyclability.
Packaging innovation encompasses the development and adoption of new packaging materials, designs, formats, and systems that improve environmental performance while maintaining functionality.
Areas of packaging innovation:
- Mono-material solutions — replacing multi-material packs with single-material alternatives
- Bio-based materials — packaging from renewable sources
- Advanced recycling — chemical recycling of hard-to-recycle plastics
- Digital watermarks — invisible codes enabling automated sorting at MRFs
- Reuse systems — new business models for returnable packaging
- Smart packaging — sensors reducing food waste
pEPR's modulated fees create a financial incentive for innovation — packaging that can demonstrate improved recyclability through the RAM assessment benefits from lower fees. However, truly novel materials may initially score poorly if recycling infrastructure doesn't yet exist. Innovators should engage with WRAP and industry bodies to develop collection and recycling pathways alongside new packaging solutions.
Related Terms
Modulated Fees
Fee adjustments applied on top of base fees that reward recyclable packaging wit...
Recyclability
The practical ability of a packaging item to be collected, sorted, and reprocess...
Materials Recovery Facility
A plant where mixed recyclable materials from household and commercial collectio...
Eco-Design
The practice of designing packaging with environmental considerations integrated...
Reusable Packaging
Packaging designed for multiple uses through return, refill, or repurposing syst...
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