Latest news with #sustainablepackaging
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Eco Guardian Launches Canada-Wide eCommerce Store for Sustainable Food Packaging
Buy Local. Ship Fast. Serve Sustainably. NEWMARKET, ON, July 22, 2025 /CNW/ - Eco Guardian, a leading Canadian innovator in eco-friendly food and beverage packaging, proudly announces the launch of its Online store, offering fast and easy access to premium, compostable packaging solutions for businesses and households across Canada. bamboo food bowl, forest collection, food container (CNW Group/Eco Guardian) Whether managing a café, organizing an outdoor event, planning a party, or stocking a breakroom or home office, Eco Guardian now delivers high-performance, sustainable packaging—right to your door. Now Open: Customers across the country can shop a curated selection of compostable and recyclable products, including: PLA-lined coffee cups and compostable lids Forest Collection bamboo food containers Elegance Collection Bagasse plates made from sugarcane fiber Paper food containers and durable birchwood cutlery A full range of BPI Certified, compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable food service and tableware options Sourcing sustainable food packaging has never been easier for time strapped consumers and busy owner- operators. The store is ideal for: Independent cafés and coffee shops Restaurants and Food trucks Grocery and convenience stores Family gatherings, birthdays, weddings, catered events, and camping trips Office kitchens and staff breakrooms Reducing plastic waste has never been easier. Launch Offers Same-Day Shipping for orders placed before 12 PM (local time zones where available) 50% Off Shipping during the store launch celebration Proudly Serving Customers Across Canada From Toronto to Vancouver, Halifax to Calgary, St. John's to Winnipeg—Eco Guardian is your national partner in Sustainable packaging. To meet growing demand, Eco Guardian is opening a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Aurora Ontario to produce Made In Canada hot and cold cups and paper food containers, further reinforcing its commitment to local production, sustainability, and innovation. "Eco Guardian is committed to helping Canadians reduce plastic waste without sacrificing quality, performance, or speed. Our eCommerce platform empowers foodservice operators, offices, and everyday households to make sustainable choices—conveniently and locally." — Anil Abrol, CEO, Eco Guardian Eco Guardian – Clean Products. Pure Future. eco guardian inc., sustainable packaging, made in canada (CNW Group/Eco Guardian) SOURCE Eco Guardian Cision View original content to download multimedia:
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Huhtamaki expands sustainable offerings with new ice-cream cups
Sustainable food packaging solutions provider Huhtamaki has introduced a new range of compostable ice-cream cups. The cups are designed to be compostable both in home settings and industrially, as well as recyclable, providing a viable alternative for the ice-cream market. They are made from certified paperboard that is responsibly sourced and features a biobased material coating, which reduces reliance on fossil-based plastics, maintaining plastic content below 10%. The new cups are now available for purchase, offering a sustainable option that does not compromise on quality or performance, according to the company. Huhtamaki stated that this initiative is part of its strategy to promote sustainability and assist customers in minimising their environmental impact. Huhtamaki foodservice packaging president Fredrik Davidsson said: 'Our new ice-cream cups demonstrate Huhtamaki's expertise in paperboard and barrier technologies, as well as our dedication to sustainable innovation. 'We are proud to offer a product that not only meets the highest environmental standards but also delivers the high quality our customers expect.' In April 2025, Huhtamaki acquired Zellwin Farms, a US-based producer of moulded fibre packaging, known for its recycled paper egg cartons and trays. With over 20 years of experience, Zellwin Farms serves clients in the Southeastern US from its single manufacturing site. Its products use recycled paper materials collected from the local area. Huhtamaki provides sustainable packaging solutions for food, beverages, and personal care products. The company employs approximately 18,000 staff members across 36 countries and 101 locations. It reported net sales of €4.1bn ($4.7bn) in 2024. "Huhtamaki expands sustainable offerings with new ice-cream cups" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Recycled Polyolefin Market Size to Exceed USD 144.2 Billion by 2034
According to Towards chem and Materials consultants, the global recycled polyolefin market size was reached at USD 61.19 billion in 2024 and is expected to exceed around USD 144.2 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.95% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Ottawa, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global recycled polyolefin market size is estimated at USD 66.67 billion in 2025 and is expected to hit around USD 144.2 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.95% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. A study published by Towards chem and Materials a sister firm of Precedence Research. Get All the Details in Our Solutions –Download Sample: The market is experiencing significant expansion due to the movement to sustainable packaging, light weight automotive, increasing infrastructure and conversion to more recyclable polymer-based solutions. Recycled polyolefins are merely reused thermoplastics that include polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) which have been recovered from post-consumer or post-industrial plastics waste and processed for re-use. The properties of recycled polyolefins that provide them desirability i.e., durability, lightweight, and chemical resistance make them suitable for applications in packaging, automotive, and construction. The market has continued to grow with more environmental considerations, government mandates, and growing consumer, brand owner, and retailer demand for sustainable solutions. Improvements in related sorting technologies and recycling technologies have continued to improve the end usage quality of recycled polyolefins. Key Takeaways The Asia Pacific recycled polyolefin market dominated the global market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 45.74% in 2024. The Europe is expected to grow at a notable rate in the future, owing to newly implemented and strong environmental standards and regulations. By product type, the Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) dominated the recycled polyolefin market across the product type segmentation in terms of revenue, accounting for a market share of 35.38% in 2024. By product type, the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) segment is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR of 9.75% through the forecast period. By source type, the Plastic bottles dominated the recycled polyolefin market across the source segmentation in terms of revenue, accounting for a market share of 42.67% in 2024. By source type, the plastic film segment is projected to witness a substantial CAGR of 8.66% through the forecast period. By application, the Food packaging dominated the recycled polyolefin market across the source segmentation in terms of revenue, accounting for a market share of 37.64% in 2024. By application, the automotive segment is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR of 9.25% through the forecast period. Recycled Polyolefin Market Report Scope Report Attribute Details Market size value in 2025 USD 66.67 billion Revenue forecast in 2034 USD 144.2 billion Growth rate CAGR of 8.95% from 2024 to 2034 Base year for estimation 2024 Historical data 2019 - 2024 Forecast period 2025 - 2034 Quantitative units Revenue in USD million/billion, Volume in Kilotons, and CAGR from 2025 to 2034 Segments covered Product type, source, application, region Key companies profiled LyondellBasell; SABIC; Dow; INEOS; Borealis; GCR; Omya International AG; Pashupati Group Explore Strategic Figures & Forecasts – Access the Databook | Immediate Delivery Available: Recycled Polyolefin Market Major Trends Utilizing new recycling processes- There is a gradual movement from traditional mechanical recycling to advanced chemical recycling. New innovations that lead to higher-quality output are allowing for recycled polyolefins that meet higher performance and safety standards in packaging and automotive applications. Increased demand due to brand commitments to circular economy- Manufacturers and consumer brands are increasing their use of recycled content to meet their sustainability goals, driving demand for recycled polyolefins used in rigid packaging, household goods, and textiles. Development of collection and sorting systems- Governments and the private sector are investing in better waste collection. Newer sorting technologies as well as improved collection systems are increasing both the volume and quality of recycled polyolefins available into the supply chain. Recycled Polyolefin Market Dynamics Growth Factor Mandatory Minimum Recycled-Content Laws Strengthening Demand Governments are promoting recycled polyolefin adoption, with recycled-content mandates making it law and enforceable. In June 2025, India, released draft Plastic Waste Management (Second Amendment) Rules, require the Category I rigid plastic packaging to have a minimum of 30% recycled content in 2025-26, with targets to reach 60% in 2028-29. In the USA, California's Assembly Bill (AB) 793 mandates recycled content standards for plastic beverage containers to contain 25% PCR (post-consumer resin) content in 2025 and must reach 50% by 2030. These governments provided mandates create un-assessable demand for recycled HDPE and PP, which means packaging producers and resin suppliers can use this buying behavior to take risks, invest in scalable polyolefin recycling infrastructure and material supply, even without market-research summaries. Is Artificial Intelligence the key to High-Purity and Scalable Recycled Polyolefin Solution? Artificial Intelligence is beginning to bring higher levels of efficiency and quality into the recycled polyolefin market. India-based Ishitva Robotics is leading in AI-powered waste sorting using NIR and machine learning methods to identify HDPE, LDPE, and PP from mixed waste streams accurately. Their AI- powered "SmaRT" sorters guarantee high purity output, crucial when re-processing into food-grade or industrial-grade recycled polymers. Europe is home to one of the largest organizations working on a similar project, involving an AI- powered robotic solution called, OMNI, provided by Recycleye and Valorplast, which has been capable of recovering food-grade PP with over 95% purity. Multinational firms like Borealis and TotalEnergies will be investing in AI-based systems to enhance sorting, traceability and end-product quality to continue to bridge the gap to virgin-grade standards and build the role of recycled polyolefins in the circular economy. Market Opportunity Is Heightened Demand for Sustainable Packaging Creating New Opportunities in the Recycled Polyolefin Segment? One main opportunity for the recycled polyolefin segment is the growing demand for sustainable packaging found in sectors like food & beverage, personal care, and even e-commerce. With environmental concerns building and regulations being enacted for recycled packaging content, many companies are hoping to move away from virgin plastics. For example, Unilever and PepsiCo have recently committed to incorporating more post-consumer recycled polyolefin in their product packaging. The EU directive of single use plastics and somewhere like India has also moved to amend its Plastic Waste Management Rules to focus on single-use plastics accelerating uptake of recycled polyolefin. Consumer awareness is surging so brands are also taking it seriously to meet their circular economic goals. All of this is helpful for recycled polyolefins as a valuable material in the world as we transition to greener packaging alternatives. What can be the Potential Barriers Limiting the Future Growth of Recycled Polyolefin Market? Variable quality of recycled materials- Recycled polyolefins frequently have consistency problems because of contamination; physical degradation during processing; and mixed plastic waste streams. These issues often impede the use of recycled polyolefins in high-end or technical applications. Lack of collection and sorting infrastructure- Inefficient waste collection systems and inadequate sorting infrastructure, particularly in developing countries, prevent the separation and accessibility of clean polyolefin waste, thus not providing a suitable, economically viable waste stream for polyolefins, and inhibit market growth. Regulatory and food safety issues- Due to strict regulations and food contact safety standards, food-grade and medical medical-grade applications for polyolefins are severely restricted, thus limiting re-use and recycling of polyolefins for commercial purposes, to those select industries. Invest in Premium Global Insights Immediate Delivery Available @ Recycled Polyolefin Market Segmentation Analysis Product Analysis Which Product Segment Will Take the Dominated in the Recycled Polyolefin Market Landscape? Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) segment is leading recycled polyolefin market in 2024, because of its useful application in films and packaging. Its properties provide recyclability, consumer preference for flexibility and low cost, and the source of commonly found waste (i.e., recyclable plastic bags), making it a favourite among manufacturers for cost neutral and sustainable means of using recycled materials. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) segment expects the fastest growth in the market during the forecast period, due to its recyclable nature and increasing segments of application (packaging and textiles). With the increased use of chemical recycling, PET recovery rates have improved and supported sustainability goals and compliance with regulations which is hastening its adoption in various consumer and industrial applications. Source Analysis Why Does Plastic Bottles Segment Dominated the Recycled Polyolefin Market in 2024? Plastic bottles segment dominated the recycled polyolefin market in 2024, because they are the most widely consumed type of plastic item and possess the best collection system. In addition, plastic bottles are the source stream that is the easiest to sort and process, and we can get a reliable and sustainable source of high-grade recycled raw material for packaging and household and industrial products. The plastic film segment expects the fastest growth in the market during upcoming period, because there has been an increase in recycling programs for agricultural films, carrier bags, and flexible packaging wraps. Improvements in the technology used to sort film, and there are new compliance regulations forcing industry to manage flexible plastic waste which adds additional pressure on recyclers to find a solution for the large stream of material that is not recyclable for the time being. Application Analysis Which Application Segment Holds the Dominant Share of Recycled Polyolefin Market? Food packaging segment leads the recycled polyolefin market in 2024, due to an increasing demand for sustainable options in consumer goods. Recycled polyolefins provide safety, flexibility, and durability, which make them great choices for packaging trays, containers, and films, as food brands transition to sustainable packaging options. The automotive segment expects the fastest growth in the market during the forecast period, as manufacturers seek lightweight, cost effective, and environmentally friendly materials. Recycled polyolefins find uses in non-structural and a variety of components like interior trim, under body shields, and battery housings, in support of circular economy strategies and compliance with vehicle sustainability requirements. Regional Analysis Why is Asia Pacific dominating the Global Recycled Polyolefin Market? Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2024, due to the wide industrial base, industrial development and demand from the construction and automotive industries. There are strong governmental incentives in Asia Pacific to reduce plastic waste and improve recycling infrastructure. For example, the Swachh Bharat Mission is helping India improve access to and quality of recycling, and limiting the amount of waste that can be imported into China is pushing its industries to develop and support domestic recycling efforts. The increasing consumption of plastics in areas such as automotive, construction, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) also supports using recycled polyolefins as an input for many of these types of industrial applications. China Market Trends China is the leading country in the Asia Pacific recycled polyolefin market, driven by strong industrial development and demand for polyolefin in China from industries such as automotive, food and beverage packaging. The country is quickly growing its domestic recycling capacity, driven by demand from electric vehicles and e-commerce. In 2024, China imported 2.4 million tons of PE from the U.S. This accounted for 20% of its China's PE imports. Additionally, the adoption of technology, including sorting solutions powered by artificial intelligence, is positioning China to be an important leader in both regulatory action and innovation. What Makes Europe the Fastest Growing Marketplace for Recycled Polyolefin Market? Europe expects the fastest growth in the market during the forecast period, due to stringent environmental legislation, heightened consumer awareness, and a robust commitment to circular economy principles. Demand, from packaging and industrial applications, is set to be boosted by the EU's Single-Use Plastics Directive, alongside prescribed mandates on recycled content. Furthermore, there has been considerable progress with respect to technological innovation in mechanical and chemical recycling across the region. Several nations are opting to provide subsidies or incentives to improve the operations of plastic collection and sorting. In October 2024 - ICIS published new pricing assessments for recycled polyolefin agglomerates in Europe to enhance transparency and provide value chain stakeholders with reliable price benchmarks to improve decision making in the recycling and manufacturing sectors. Germany Market Trend Germany leads within the region from the standpoint of recycling, partly due to an established recycling infrastructure and proactive policy making. Germany has a dual waste collection system, allowing for a higher recovery of polyolefin materials which can be processed into high-quality applications. This leadership position is supported by strong R&D investment and government-backed recycling mandates that are placing Germany firmly ahead in the renewable polyolefin space within Europe. More Insights in Towards Chem and Materials: Polyolefin Market: The global polyolefin market volume was valued at 230.72 million tons in 2024 and is estimated to reach around 371.54 million tons by 2034, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.88% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Market : The global polyvinyl chloride (PVC) market size was estimated at USD 86.93 billion in 2024 and is expected to hit around USD 116.26 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.95% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Market : The global polyethylene terephthalate (PET) market size was estimated at USD 39.25 billion in 2024 and is predicted to increase from USD 41.47 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 68 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 5.65% from 2025 to 2034. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Market : The global polyethylene glycol (PEG) market volume was reached at 450,000 tons in 2024 and is expected to be worth around 788,565.1 tons by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.77% over the forecast period 2025 to 2034. Polyolefin Sheets in Industrial Market: The global polyolefin sheets in industrial market size accounted for USD 8.49 billion in 2024, grew to USD 8.99 billion in 2025, and is expected to be worth around USD 14.99 billion by 2034, poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.85% between 2025 and 2034. Polymer Denture Material Market : The global polymer denture material market size accounted for USD 2.49 billion in 2025 and is forecasted to hit around USD 4.11 billion by 2034, representing a CAGR of 5.75% from 2025 to 2034. What Is Going Around The Globe In Recycled Polyolefin Market? In October 2024 EREMA presented its new INTAREMA TVEplus Regrind Ro machine for Europe, which advances the recycling of polyolefins by providing higher quality recyclates and greater flexibility in processing contaminated plastic materials efficiently. In January 2025, PolyCyclA, the startup based in Chandigarh revealed a revolutionary plastic recycling technology in Bengaluru, leveraging AI for advanced sorting and recovery of polyolefins to reduce dependency on landfills and advance sustainable plastic management. In March 2025, GCR launched a new polyolefin recycling facility in Spain to support the circular economy. The facility features cutting-edge technologies to specifically recycle plastic waste into quality recycled polyolefins to allow for industrial reuse. Top 10 Companies in Recycled Polyolefin Market & Their Contributions LyondellBasell- Developing Europe's largest advanced plastic recycling hub in Knapsack, Germany to supply feedstock for its Wesseling and Geleen sites; aims to produce 2 million metric tonnes/year of recycled and renewable polymers by 2030. SABIC- Under its TRUCIRCLE™ portfolio, SABIC offers mechanical and certified circular polymers via advanced recycling; in India, a MoU with Pashupati Group to process post-consumer plastic into pyrolysis oil for certified circular polyolefins Dow- Utilities both mechanical and advanced recycling; offers REVOLOOP™ post-consumer recycled PCR resins, chemical recycling partnerships (Mura, Freepoint, Valoregen) to scale rPO feedstock capacity by 2030 INEOS- Offers Recycl-IN hybrid polymers mixing PCR with engineered virgin resins (up to 60% PCR content); also developing advanced recycling and 'design for recycling' mono-material films Borealis- Borcycle™ mechanical & chemical recycling tech converting mixed post-consumer waste into high-quality rPO; acquisitions (mtm, Ecoplast, Integra, Rialti) boosting capacity; demonstration compounding line in Belgium operational mid-2025 GCR- CICLIC® portfolio of high-quality rHDPE, rLDPE, rLLDPE, rPP produced via mechanical recycling; new Spain plant (Castellet i la Gornal) with 130,000 t/yr capacity; CO₂ savings up to 90% Pashupati Group- Indian recycler producing food-grade recycled polyolefin granules (HDPE/PP); exports to 25+ countries; MoU with SABIC for advanced recycling (pyrolysis oil feedstock) and value-added rPO pellets Omya International AG- Provides calcium carbonate masterbatch (Omyaloop MIX) to enhance mechanical properties of recycled polyolefin blends (PE/PP); enables broader feedstock acceptance and lower carbon footprint Recycled Polyolefin Market Top Key Companies: LyondellBasell SABIC Dow INEOS Borealis GCR Pashupati Group Omya International AG Recycled Polyolefin Market Report Segmentation This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2019 to 2034. For this study, Towards Chem and Materials has segmented the global Recycled Polyolefin Market By Product Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE) High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Polypropylene Other Product Types By Source Plastic Bottles Plastic Films Polymer Foam Other Sources By Application Food Packaging Construction Automotive Non-food Packaging Other Applications By Regional North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East Africa Immediate Delivery Available | Buy This Premium Research Report@ About Us Towards Chem and Materials is a leading global consulting firm specializing in providing comprehensive and strategic research solutions across the chemical and materials industries. With a highly skilled and experienced consultant team, we offer a wide range of services designed to empower businesses with valuable insights and actionable recommendations. Our Trusted Data Partners Precedence Research | Statifacts | Towards Packaging | Towards Healthcare | Towards Food and Beverages | Towards Chem and Materials | Towards Consumer Goods | Nova One Advisor | For Latest Update Follow Us: USA: +1 804 441 9344 APAC: +61 485 981 310 or +91 87933 22019 Europe: +44 7383 092 044 Email: sales@ Web: in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Preferred Packaging Introduces New Recyclable and Compostable Fiber Trays for Packaged Meals
GreenStream™ fiber trays for packaged meals Peelable liner with tab for easy removal NORCROSS, Ga., July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Preferred Packaging, a division of C-P Flexible Packaging, has launched GreenStream™ fiber trays for packaged meals. Made from natural plant fibers, GreenStream™ multi-compartment fiber trays are compostable and curbside recyclable in municipalities with paper recycling collection systems. The microwave-safe, freezer-safe, ovenable fiber tray includes a peelable liner designed with a tab for easy removal when composting or recycling the tray. This eliminates food particles that could otherwise prevent the tray from being recycled. The PFAS-free tray also provides strength, oil resistance and moisture resistance with no leaking or discoloration. Composed of bagasse plant fibers and manufactured responsibly without generating wastewater, GreenStream™ fiber trays are an ideal solution for brands converting to sustainable packaging and complying with EPR laws. The engineered surface of the fiber tray is compatible with Preferred Packaging's recyclable and compostable lidding films, as well as a wide variety of other lidding films. 'GreenStream™ fiber trays give prepared meals a sustainable packaging upgrade without sacrificing performance,' says Chadd Floria, General Manager of Preferred Packaging. 'We engineered our fiber trays to provide brands with an economical solution that reduces environmental impact and complies with evolving packaging regulations.' Preferred Packaging also offers Affirm™ recyclable and compostable lidding films, as well as OmniSeal™ high-efficiency sealing equipment designed to accommodate all volumes and budgets. Additional information can be found at About Preferred PackagingPreferred Packaging is a trusted manufacturer of integrated packaging systems for prepared meals, including multilayer flexible films, thermoformed containers, and tray sealing equipment. The company joined the C-P Flexible Packaging family in 2021, fueling additional growth and expansion. Preferred Packaging is the exclusive manufacturer of Affirm™ lidding films and OmniSeal™ tray sealing equipment. For more information on Preferred Packaging's efficient solutions for packaging prepared meals, visit About C-P Flexible PackagingFounded in 1958, C-P Flexible Packaging is one of the top flexible packaging manufacturers in the U.S., supporting the growth efforts of many leading consumer packaged goods companies. A portfolio company of First Atlantic Capital, C-P operates ten manufacturing plants across North America and employs over 1,000 people. The company brings together a full portfolio of flexible packaging formats spanning HD printed rollstock, premade pouches, shrink sleeves, stretch sleeves, poly bags, roll-fed labels, peel and reseal packaging, cold-seal flow wrap, compostable and recyclable flexible packaging. For more information on C-P Flexible Packaging, visit Photos accompanying this announcement are available at CONTACT: Editorial contact Amanda Dahlby VP - Marketing 800 815 0667 adahlby@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Why Isn't Sustainable Packaging Mainstream Yet?
AI, policy gaps, and the price of plastic — what's really slowing the shift Claire Hae-Min Gusko, Co-founder and CEO of Despite record-breaking climate pledges and the sustainable packaging market expected to maintain robust growth through 2030 and beyond, the world is still wrapped in plastic. Sustainable packaging is gaining traction — its momentum is driven by a blend of regulatory push, shifts in consumer values, brand commitments, and innovation in material science. The packaging industry's green transition is seen as critical not only for brands' market competitiveness but for fulfilling wider sustainability and circular economy goals. But despite considerable progress made towards greener packaging, it's still a far cry from mainstream. Current estimates suggest that between 15% and 20% of global packaging may be classified as sustainable. However, this figure encompasses packaging that is recyclable, reusable, compostable, or made from recycled or bio-based materials. Globally, only about 14% of plastic packaging is collected for recycling, and around 46% still ends up in landfill. This means that there is an enormous amount of greenwashing around packaging classified as recyclable. Claire Hae-Min Gusko, co-founder and CEO of AI-powered packaging startup is harnessing the power of AI to speed up the transition to sustainable packaging. Her startup, based in Germany, uses artificial intelligence and biomaterials to prototype packaging that meets performance, price, and sustainability goals in one go. But she's quick to point out that tech alone won't solve the system-wide friction slowing adoption. 'We're not missing innovation — we're missing infrastructure, regulation, and market alignment,' Gusko explains. like Christian Schiller (CEO of Cirplus) and Adrian Friederich (Principal at FoodLabs), Gusko's frustration is echoed by sustainable packaging sector experts who are sounding the alarm on misaligned incentives that keep fossil-based packaging in its leading position: 'We have the tools,' says Adrian Friederich, Principal at FoodLabs. 'But without system-wide coordination, they never connect to real-world outcomes.' The global sustainable packaging market is forecast to reach $240–$423 billion by 2034, growing at estimated 7–7.7% CAGR. Europe leads adoption due to policy drivers like the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), while Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market for sustainable packaging. By 2025, 40% of companies are expected to adopt innovative packaging — yet real systems change still lags. This photo taken on June 9, 2020 shows municipal workers transferring waste from a canal into a ... More garbage truck in Bangkok. - Clogged canals and landfills, polluted rivers and seas, environmentalists warn Thailand's plastic waste has surged in step with home food deliveries during the coronavirus, snuffing out efforts to reduce dependency on single-use plastics. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / AFP) / TO GO WITH Thailand-health-virus-environment, FOCUS by Sophie DEVILLER and Pitcha DANGPRASITH (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images) At Gusko's team is building a platform that uses AI to predict product-market fit for sustainable packaging before prototyping — asking: will it be affordable, scalable, manufacturable, and regulation-proof? 'We didn't set out to build an AI company,' she says. 'We just needed a way to compete on speed and relevance.' Their first commercial launch debuted earlier this year at the World Travel Catering Expo, backed by over €10.5M in funding from top-tier European climate investors. 'The biggest systemic barrier is the artificially low price of virgin plastic,' says Christian Schiller, CEO of Cirplus, calling out the outrageous reality of fossil fuel subsidies that are significantly hampering the transition to sustainable alternatives. Despite increasing regulation and consumer awareness, plastic remains cheap, effective, and ubiquitous. 'Cost is still the elephant in the room,' adds Friederich. 'Even in climate-aware industries, price often trumps sustainability. Until we see meaningful financial incentives or penalties, sustainable packaging won't scale.' Schiller calls for stronger price corrections: 'We need plastic taxes, subsidy reform, and mandatory recycled content quotas. Right now, business-as-usual is simply cheaper — and that's what's keeping the industry stuck.' The next five years will be pivotal for the packaging industry. Global regulatory pressure is increasing, supply chains are shifting, and sustainable alternatives are finally approaching industrial scale — yet adoption is still starkly uneven and driven by regional government policy. A large percentage of consumers, over 40% according to recent surveys, say they are willing to pay more for products with sustainable packaging. Brand loyalty and purchase decisions are also increasingly linked to sustainable packaging practices. Currently, single-use plastic packaging accounts for around 40–50% of all global plastic production. 'We're at a turning point,' says Friederich, 'cities are piloting reuse models. Seaweed, fiber, and refillable formats are scaling. And regulation is finally catching up — particularly in Europe.' Still, success depends on largely on execution and enforcement of government policy. The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) could drive meaningful reform — or risk falling short if enforcement is weak. 'With the PPWR leaving much room for revision, I don't expect targets to be met unless backed by strong political will,' says Schiller. 'Meanwhile, countries like China are building large-scale recycling infrastructure at speed. The EU may soon have to choose between importing recyclate — or lowering its own quotas.' For startups like this landscape presents both challenge and opportunity. 'You have to live in two timelines,' says Gusko. 'One where you're building for a future that's a decade away — and another where you need to prove value today just to survive. That balancing act is what defines our path forward.'
