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.
Pressures on spending mean that consumers will focus on value for money. Brands are going to have to adapt to changing economic, market and environmental factors. David Edwards, Managing Director of packaging solutions company Edwards Innovations Ltd, Stevenage, UK, presents some options.
Manufacturers have an endless battle against counterfeiters. Fake toys, games and sportswear cost revenue and sales, as well as damaging a company’s public image. Ian Lancaster, General Secretary of the International Hologram Manufacturers’ Association, Shepperton, UK, reports
Renata Jones from construction packaging specialists M.J. Maillis UK Ltd discusses the Pall-Ex network, a cost-effective method for delivering small consignments of palletised freights.
In the commercial world, sustainable performance is rapidly becoming a prerequisite for doing business. While it is widely accepted that today’s packaging must make a positive contribution to sustainability, it does not always follow that a new solution is needed for new priorities. Steel cans may be over 100 years old, but there are few materials that can challenge its sustainability credentials.
Earthcycle Packaging, based in Vancouver, Canada, was created to steer the packaging industry towards natural, renewable materials. The company has just brought a natural, fully compostable pack, which is made from remnants of palm fibre, to the market.
