David Read is determined to secure a fair trading environment for flexible packaging in the face of regulatory burdens and rising environmental awareness. The Chairman of the Packaging and Films Association talks to Gary Price about providing a voice for industry.

Those outside of the packaging industry may not be aware that polythene reduces environmental damage while providing the same high levels of protection as other packaging media. Its light weight and flexibility offer an alternative to heavier or bulkier forms of packaging which can lead to more waste by volume.

Odour testing is often conducted by expert sensory panels, which requires hours of training and a frequent availability of panelists. Therefore, electronic nose (e-nose) analysers are extensively used within the packaging industry for their rapidity and availability. The e-nose can be applied to a range of applications including product development, process monitoring and quality control.

Dr Gordon Robertson, adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland, Australia, presents opinions and facts on sustainability and packaging materials.

Climate change has presented businesses with significant challenges and opportunities. Ivan Rebrik, Head of the Health and Safety Executive Department at UC RUSAL, discusses the Russian aluminium producer’s strategy.

Gold is well documented in the Celtic fringe of Britain and Ireland, but most discoveries (or rediscoveries) have been small high-grade deposits that could be mined with minimal equipment. This article looks at new gold exploration in the Republic of Ireland.

Berkeley Mineral Resources is restarting the mining of lead and zinc deposits in Kabwe, Zambia, and addressing pollution.

Discussing the progress made in lightweighting alloys for transport applications and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Reviewing a two-day conference and exhibition entitled ‘Energy Materials: Meeting the Challenge’, organised by the Energy Materials Working Group of Materials UK, held at Loughborough University, UK, on 9-10 October. Sessions covered fossil energy, renewables, transmission, nuclear, and distribution and storage, clear and consistent messages and priorities.

Comparing the performance of magnesium to other metals in car components. The Jaguar XF's instrument panel and its associated components are carried by a magnesium cross car beam. Without this beam the instrument panel would not be possible in its current form.