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Sustainable packaging:
A core of our packaging innovations
More and more organisations are becoming aware of the role they are playing in the environmental crisis happening in the world and the interest in sustainable packaging in South Africa is steadily growing. The discontinued use of plastic packaging is being implemented by several businesses throughout the supply chain. In order to stay on top of the shift to eco-packaging in South Africa, we push the limits of our packaging and manufacturing capabilities. At Foster International Packaging, our innovation efforts focus on sustainable packaging. By offering more eco-friendly packaging options, we contribute to closing the recycling loop. This means moving away from single-use plastic to reduce waste to landfills and help preserve the environment. We aim to maintain high-quality packaging whilst offering sustainable packaging solutions that contribute to the bigger cause of ensuring not just our future but that of the generations to come.
Recyclable Packaging
Reduce your business carbon footprint and join the green movement in packaging.
Foster International Packaging’s recyclable packaging alternatives provides our customers with high-end packaging, without the harmful environmental impact. Our recyclable packaging consists of a mono – polymer substrate which aids in easier recycling of our packaging.
Benefits
Economical
Can withstand a variety of storage conditions
Can be used for both dry and liquid goods
Resealable option
Microwave safe
Available Packaging Formats
Stand Up Pouch
Spout Pouch
Flat Bottom Pouch
Quad Seal Pouch
3 Side Seal Pouch
Recycled Packaging
Foster International Packaging is one of the few companies who are committing to a circular economy.
At Foster International Packaging, we contribute towards a sustainable future in packaging by offering recycled packaging materials in various designs to our customers. We can produce PE films & pouches made from a percentage of recycled content, as well as recycled PET materials for multi-layer application. The percentage and type of recycled content is dependent on your choice of package and how it can fulfil your product’s specifications.
Benefits
Using recycled materials closes the loop of sustainability
Several customisation options
Recommended use for non-food contact packaging layers
Available Packaging Formats
Rewind
Quad Seal
3 Side Seal Pouches
Spout Pouches
Stand Up Pouches
Compostable Packaging
At Foster Packaging, we offer compostable packaging, which biodegrades within a short amount of time in composting conditions. The materials used in each compostable product pack will decompose in less than six months, effectively reducing waste that comes from non-compostable plastics and other traditional packaging. We recommend compostable packaging primarily for single-use packs.
Benefits
Made from materials that will break down under six months
Pouches and bags can come with compostable zipper closure
Available Packaging Formats
3 Side Seal Pouches
Quad Seal Pouches
Stand Up Pouches
Flat Bottom Pouches
Our role in creating a sustainable future:
At Foster International Packaging, sustainability is the core of our innovation efforts. With our vision of sustainability in mind, we are continuously searching for new ways to improve the sustainability of our packaging and lessen the environmental impact of single – use packaging. We are also proud to announce that OF PACK, which Foster International Packaging forms part of, merged with Close The Loop to form Close The Loop Group (CTLG). Furthermore, we take pleasure in announcing that on the 2 December 2021, the group was listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (CLG). Situated in ideal locations around the globe, Close the Loop Group aims to be a market leader in urban mining and to achieve a circular economy by ensuring zero waste to landfill. We strive to provide end-to-end solutions for consumers and do our part in creating a more sustainable future for packaging.
FAQs on Sustainable Packaging:
What does sustainable packaging mean?
Sustainable packaging is the eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic with the aim of limiting the packaging industry’s environmental impact through packaging designs that are reusable, recyclable or compostable.
Here are the general criteria for packaging to be considered sustainable:
- Manufactured using clean production technologies and best practices
- Physically designed to optimise materials and energy
- Beneficial, healthy, and safe for individuals and communities throughout its life cycle
- Meets market criteria for performance and cost
- Sourced, manufactured, transported, and recycled using renewable energy
- Maximizes the use of renewable or recycled source material
- Effectively recovered and utilized in biological and/or industrial cradle-to-cradle cycles
What is the difference between biodegradable and compostable packaging?
Biodegradable materials break down on their own but without specific guidelines on degradation.
Compostable materials degrade within a specific time period under certain conditions. This packaging material can be mixed with compost and added to soil, thus reducing its environmental impact.
Are recyclable pouches made of recycled materials?
No, recyclable packaging is made of a single type of plastic polymer material. This makes it easily recyclable as opposed to packaging made of multilayer laminated plastic.
Can we use compostable packaging for all kinds of products?
The applications of compostables, even as a sustainable packaging option, remain limited because it is designed to degrade under specific conditions. This means compostables are more susceptible to microbial attacks over time and can compromise the quality of certain products, especially sensitive food items.
Can we reuse or recycle biodegradable or compostable packaging materials?
NO. Compostable and biodegradable packaging is recommended for single-use packaging purposes, as they have physical properties that are designed to break down over time, and their materials are generally weaker and more vulnerable to external factors.
What is the most sustainable packaging - biodegradable, compostable or recyclable?
Given the current landscape of consumer behaviour and business practices, recycling gives the most environmental benefit, as recyclable packaging reduces the use of single-use plastics and overall waste volume by keeping materials within a circular economy. There are cases, however, where compostable packaging provides more environmental value as a sustainable packaging alternative. These cases include specific applications that involve heavy contamination with food or other organic products, such as takeaway containers and food waste bags or bin liners.
Need more information on sustainable packaging or eco-packaging in South Africa?
Do you have more questions about eco-friendly packaging and our innovations in the sector? Contact us anytime! Our experts are always ready to discuss our sustainable packaging products.