Improving the sustainability of flexible packaging was a recurring theme at this year’s Global Pouch Forum, held June 13-15 in Rosemont, IL. While pouches are recognized by many as one of the most sustainable forms of packaging due primarily to their minimal use of material and excellent product/package ratios, flexible packaging may still face unfavorable public perceptions.
While consumers like flexible packaging for its shelf appeal, product protection and convenience, many express concern that it is not recyclable and usually ends up in landfills or is washed into our waterways. The laminated structures that do so much to prevent food waste and extend the shelf life of products also can make recycling impractical.