Sustainability

Humble Tin Can Revealed as a High-Tech Marvel by Swansea University Researchers

What may seem like a simple, old-fashioned tin can is, in fact, a product of cutting-edge science and engineering, as researchers at Swansea University’s Steel and Metals Institute (SaMI) have revealed. To mark their 1,000th research collaboration with Tata Steel, SaMI researchers have shared a glimpse into the rigorous testing and innovation that ensure food cans perform safely and effectively.

A recent study by global packaging leader Amcor reveals that recyclability has become a pivotal factor in European consumers' purchasing decisions. The research, encompassing over 3,000 consumers across the UK, Italy, France, Germany, Sweden, and Poland, indicates that 84% of consumers actively seek recycling instructions on product packaging before making a purchase. ​

In addition to being 100% recyclable, the updated packaging comes with a resealable zipper closure that removes the need for a plastic clip, the Ridgefield-based family-owned commercial bakery said in an Oct. 16 press release.

It also does away with the inner cellophane wrap. That helps cut down on plastic waste, as well as delivers a sleeker package both on shelf and at home.

BlockTexx’s technology recovers valuable fibres from end-of-life textiles, transforming them into new materials that can be used in a variety of applications.

The initiative will see old and unused uniforms from Opal’s Paper & Recycling Botany Mill collected and recycled, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability.

As part of the pilot program, a 660 L container of uniforms has already been collected from Botany Mill team members. These uniforms will undergo BlockTexx’s textile recycling process, which breaks down garments into reusable fibres.

In a significant stride toward sustainable packaging, Berry Global Group, Inc. and Nestlé Purina PetCare have collaborated to launch new canisters for Friskies® Party Mix® cat treats, crafted entirely from 100% recycled plastic—excluding the lid and label. This initiative underscores both companies' commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation in packaging solutions.​

A newly released report from American packaging group Ameripen, developed by Circular Matters and funded by the Plastics Industry Association’s (PLASTICS) Recycling is Real initiative, provides an in-depth analysis of US progress toward post-consumer recycled (PCR) content goals in packaging — and the systemic challenges that remain.

The Pet Sustainability Coalition Accreditation is awarded to companies that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable practices and show measurable progress in environmental and social responsibility. This accreditation process involves rigorous evaluation and verification of a company's sustainability initiatives, policies, and impact.

As some look for more sustainable alternatives to conventional single-use foodservice packaging, Better Earth says some first-generation compostable products have failed to use rapidly renewable raw materials that store carbon and cycle nutrients into soil that has been depleted by traditional agricultural practices.

To address that issue, the company launched its first compostable foodservice packaging to pursue domestic sourcing of perennial grasses that regenerate soil and sequester one ton of carbon per acre, per year, according to a news release.

In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, ZYRTEC, a leading name in allergy relief for over three decades, has introduced a refreshed packaging design that is entirely plastic-free. This initiative aligns with Kenvue's Healthy Lives Mission, aiming to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the trusted efficacy of ZYRTEC products.​