Packaging
Packaging is essential because it protects and preserves food and drink from
spoilage and contamination throughout the distribution chain and ensures it
remains
in premium condition for us to consume throughout its shelf life. It
therefore
plays a valuable role in reducing food waste which if sent to landfill is
up
to 15x
more polluting than packaging.
Packaging also conveys essential
product
information much of which is required by law. However, everyone agrees
that
optimising the
amount of packaging we use, is important from a resource
efficiency
standpoint.
For this reason FDF is encouraging its members to sign up to the Courtauld
Commitment, which is overseen by a government-funded organisation called Waste &
Resources Action Programme (WRAP).
Companies who join the Courtauld Commitment
–
and many FDF members have
already done so - must promise to cut the amount of
packaging they use.
Recycling is another important aspect of reducing the impact of packaging on the
environment. Here, too, food and drink manufacturers are playing their part in
contributing to the UK meeting the challenging targets under the EU Packaging
and
Packaging Waste Directive. The food industry recovered and recycled 6.4 million
tonnes of packaging waste in 2006 – nearly double that in 1998.
FDF members are
also
committed to providing consumers with the information they need on how
best
to
recycle
or recover used packaging.
More Information
Last reviewed: 21 Aug 2008