– are seeking ways to drive change that are not hampered by this potential problem. In doing so, they are also acknowledging plastic packaging waste at various stages in the preconsumption supply chain. For example, packaging can be removed and replaced simply to change its branding long before the product reaches the final consumer. SEVEN STRATEGIES We highlight seven strategies (see infographic on previous page) being used by pre-consumption supply chain actors to tackle plastic waste. By mapping these on to the ‘Waste Hierarchy’, we suggest that reducing plastic packaging weight (with thinner and/or smaller packaging) prevents (albeit by reducing) the amount of plastic pollution, and sits at the most preferred position alongside the removal of unnecessary/avoidable packaging. These are the seven strategies. 1. Reducing the weight of plastic packaging In most cases, reducing the weight of plastic packaging, by a) using thinner plastic; and/or b) reducing the size of the packaging, fits into organisations’ existing packaging processes. This makes this idea relatively easy to adopt. Marketing departments were initially concerned with the risk that smaller/thinner packaging would lead to reduced sales. They argued that consumers associate size/thickness with quality. In the event, the organisations we interviewed said that these packaging changes did not lead to a loss of sales. 2. Redesigning and reprocessing packaging to promote recyclability To encourage recycling, food producers are looking for easier ways for consumers to separate out soiled plastic packaging from packaging that can be more readily recycled. Producers are also becoming more conscious of the need to use only one type of material. Glossy ink might look good to consumers, but colourful packaging is harder to recycle – so we may see less colour on supermarket shelves in the future. 3. Using more recycled content for food grade plastic packaging The use of recycled plastic packaging in the food sector has been hindered by perceived obstacles from food safety regulations. Increased clarity in food safety regulations has increased the use of recycled plastics. Recycled plastics can be more expensive though, and this is a barrier to using them. 4. Adopting reusable plastics Refill stations at supermarkets help consumers reuse packaging; and supply chain businesses are reusing plastic pallets to transport materials. This can lead to complex logistics as food contamination is a risk. A lorry delivering fresh meat cannot be used to store soiled reusable packaging until all the fresh meat has been delivered. Collecting soiled reusable packaging also increases costs for businesses. 5. Using biodegradable plastic Like other sustainability innovation ideas at the point of starting, there is divided opinion on the prospects of biodegradable plastics in food packaging. Beyond being an alternative to fossil-based plastics, the ability to decompose under certain conditions makes it more environmentally sustainable. This is another expensive option, and the infrastructure to process this waste is not yet sufficient. 6. Removing unnecessary packaging If unnecessary packaging is used, removing it is a really good option as this will also reduce costs. Having the right size of vac packs removes the need to cut them back – and then throw away the trim. Repackaging just to relabel with a different brand is also common and unnecessary – producers are actively seeking ways to prevent this practice. 7. Using alternative packaging materials Whilst using alternatives might seem the best approach, we conclude that plastic is not the enemy. Moving away from plastic can lead to poorer substitutes. More research is needed to compare different packaging types for different products. It is unlikely there will be one best solution for all foods. MORE COLLABORATION NEEDED We were saddened to hear producers apologise for taking option 1 – calling this the ‘best idea’ they had to date. All the options have risks – but option 1 is the least risky and does lead to a reduction in plastic being used. Option 6 has similar benefits. To address the scale of the plastic pollution problem, we need more collaborative transformative solutions. Options 2 and 4 need the cooperation of consumers and supply chain actors at different tiers. Options 3, 5 and 7 require government intervention to provide new waste management infrastructure; to better incentivise incremental change; and to fund more research. Watch this research space – there is much still to be done! FIFTY FOUR DEGREES | 13 Linda Hendry is a Distinguished Professor of Operations Management in the Department of Management Science. Her main ongoing research interest is Sustainable Supply Chain Management. See the Sustainable Packaging Innovation: Hampered by the Consumer Attitude-Behaviour Gap? report for recommendations for government, NGOs and industrial actors; and more details on the seven strategies and how they can be implemented. l.hendry@lancaster.ac.uk
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