Sometimes our managers hear the phrase “Why are yours so expensive? I could buy two packaging machines from those guys for the same money!” And I don’t even want to explain for a long time why we don’t want to sell “such” equipment. But recently we were asked to configure a cheap “noname” packaging machine. So we can show by example why cheap things later become very expensive.
Samples of cosmetic products are quite common and widely used. Or rather, they are not even exactly samples, but rather single-use portions of almost any cosmetic product. These are sachet-type bags that are immediately thrown away after use. The ratio of product volumes to packaging in this case is not about ecology at all. But it turns out that not everything is hopeless here.
We have already written about the adoption of this Regulation, which introduces at the level of law both normative indicators for the use and recycling of various types of packaging, as well as many definitions, conditions for labeling and collection. We strongly recommend that everyone who is in any way connected with packaging read its text (we will provide a link at the end of the article). Because the law affects not only packaging produced within the EU, but also all goods imported there.
It may sound too fantastic, but for several years now we have been witnessing how fantasy becomes reality. This is what is happening in this case.
Fruit puree and yoghurts are a very convenient and healthy snack on the run, but the packaging for this is far from convenient. And the packaging is most often disposable, which creates too much temptation to throw it away right after use. That is, there is a problem: it is useful, but not convenient and not environmentally friendly. However, sooner or later, a solution is found for any problem.
Scientists at South Korea's Chungnam National University have developed a stable compound that can be used as a protective coating for fruits and vegetables. Moreover, the coating is eco-friendly, biodegradable and can extend the shelf life of these products.
The European Council has adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This document was discussed for almost the entire 2024. Many large companies spoke both for and against its adoption. Many provisions were considered very controversial. Nevertheless, the Council approved the text previously adopted by the European Parliament. It will enter into force in January or February 2025, and will be mandatory 18 months after that. What changes does this Regulation bring?