What Is the EU Ecolabel? A Guide for Business Owners
As sustainability continues to shape consumer choices and regulatory standards, business owners are increasingly under pressure to demonstrate their environmental credentials. One widely recognised way to do so within the European market is through the EU Ecolabel—a certification that signals a product or service has met high environmental and performance standards. Whether you’re just beginning […]
The UK’s Environmental Improvement Plan
In early 2023, the UK Government unveiled its Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) 2023, a major strategic framework designed to tackle environmental degradation and promote long-term sustainability. As the first revision of the 25 Year Environment Plan introduced in 2018, this latest roadmap sets out how the government plans to meet its ambitious environmental goals over […]
What are the Extended Producer Responsibilities?
The way UK organisations responsible for packaging must carry out their recycling responsibilities has changed. If you’re affected by extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging, you may need to report your packaging data from 2023 onward, and in the future pay fees based on your data . EPR for packaging fees have been deferred for […]
Compostable Seaweed Packaging to Replace All Plastic Packaging?
Seaweed thrives naturally in both marine and freshwater environments without the need for additional inputs such as fertilizers or pesticides. When cultivated sustainably, it has the potential to play a significant role in reducing reliance on fossil-based plastics. One example of its application is in the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable thermoplastic monomer. […]
New Extended Producer Responsibility Requirements Now in Force for 2025
The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) Regulations 2024 took effect on January 1, 2025, introducing a new framework for Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging Waste (pEPR). This updated system places both reporting and financial obligations on businesses responsible for generating packaging waste, with the primary goal of funding waste collection and recycling efforts. […]
Latest Statistics for PPT (Plastic Packaging Tax)
The UK introduced the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) in April 2022 as part of its broader efforts to tackle plastic waste and encourage businesses to use more sustainable materials. This tax applies to plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled content, with the aim of reducing the use of virgin plastics and increasing recycling […]
What’s the Difference Between Biodegradable, Recyclable, and Compostable?
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) says waste terms such as ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ seen in product ads, are confusing and potentially misleading. The ASA – which has the job of making sure that advertisements do not mislead the public – says that people often buy products which they believe are green choices and environmentally friendly, […]
MacDonalds to Reduce Environmental Footprint with Waste Reduction Strategy
McDonald’s is making major efforts to lessen its environmental footprint, with a focus on cutting waste and using more sustainable materials in its packaging and toy production. The company is committed to protecting the planet and strengthening its business by revamping its packaging approach, embracing alternative materials, and enhancing waste management practices. By the end […]
Flexible Packaging and It’s Growing Impact on Sustainability
The global flexible paper packaging market is rapidly evolving, projected to reach an impressive USD 78.25 billion by 2033 from USD 50.68 billion in 2023. This significant growth is driven by the increasing shift towards sustainable packaging solutions, fuelled by rising consumer demand, stringent regulations, and innovative product developments. The market is expected to grow […]
A Deep Dive on the IGD’s New Universal Eco-Label Plans
IGD has been working since 2021 to develop a consistent approach to environmental labelling for the UK following a proliferation of competing schemes in recent years. Recently it presented plans for an eco-label combining red, amber and green lights with an A-E rating system. The overall framework for the system is based on the concept […]