Design for recycling

As additional requirements and regulations for packaging and producers are introduced within the framework of the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation within the EU (PPWR), it is important for NPA to be involved in the development of upcoming standards for recycling packaging.

LUMENE, a leading Nordic beauty brand specialised in skincare, face makeup and colour cosmetics, has made a commitment towards a more sustainable future, something that is visible in their recently launched 50 ml moisturiser jars.

Pågen is Sweden's leading bakery in packaged fresh bread, yeast, coffee bread, rusks, sausage and hamburger bread. They have around 30 different breads in their range, with brands such as LingonGrova, Levain and Hönö. In total, Pågen bakes around 50 different products and their bread is sold in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Iceland and Germany.

A lot is happening in the packaging space right now – new materials, material combinations and design solutions are reported every week, and developments in sorting and recycling are moving forward. However, Näringslivets Producentansvar, NPA, sees three trends that, as a result of new legislation, risk taking us further from the goal of a higher material recycling rate.

20 percent more plastic packaging from households was recycled in 2023 than in 2022 at our supplier Svensk Plaståtervinning. Despite a positive development, there is still a long way to go to reach the goal of 50 percent of plastic packaging being recycled.

The packaging's most important task is to protect its contents, but they must also be easy to empty and recycle. - It is more complex than you might think, says Karin Jawerth, Packaging Developer at ICA.

Sweden is switching to reusable packaging. Consumers must then be able to choose between a single-use package and a package that is to be returned, washed and used again.

The packaging and recycling industry is facing major changes. But the packaging manuals for plastic, paper, glass and metal live on and are ready for the future.

Packaging changes does not always have to be very extensive to make a difference, the most important thing is to start somewhere and follow a set plan. We had a talk to Henrika Peltola, Sustainability Manager, Danone Nordics & Baltics, about the design change of Danone’s Actimel multipack, that is now sleeveless.

More actors need to take a comprehensive approach to the packaging that is put on the market in Sweden. Through clear and strategic work for sustainable packaging solutions, the company's transition to a circular economy can be facilitated. Therefore, we are happy to see that our customer ICA Sverige has now released its packaging strategy for private label goods and made it available for everyone to be inspired by.

Did you know that completely opaque glass that does not let any light through can affect the recyclability of your packaging? Watch the video and learn more about how you can make your glass packaging more recyclable.

Did you know that combinations of different materials are more difficult to recycle? Watch the video and learn more about how you can make your metal packaging more recyclable.