Tetra Pak has received the ‘Resource Efficiency’ Award at the Sustainable Packaging News Awards 2024, for its paper-based barrier material innovation. The awards recognise the most innovative advancements in sustainable packaging over the past year.
A world-first in the carton packaging industry, the paper-based barrier when combined with plant-based polymers, reduces the carbon footprint of aseptic food packaging by up to one-third, while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and performance. The carbon reduction achievement has been verified by the Carbon Trust.1
As global food systems call for low carbon renewable materials, the packaging industry is seeking alternatives to the aluminium foil layer, which represents an excellent source of food protection against oxygen and light. By replacing this layer with a paper-based barrier, the paperboard in Tetra Pak’s cartons is increased - from an average of 70% paper content - to approximately 80%, helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the package.
When combined with plant-based polymers, the paper-based barrier increases the total share of renewable content of an aseptic carton up to 90%.
Marco Marchetti, Vice President Packaging Materials, Sales and Distribution Solutions, Tetra Pak comments: “We are honoured to accept this award from Sustainable Packaging News for our paper-based barrier material innovation. This award highlights our commitment to customer-driven innovation by harnessing the power of paper to achieve renewability, recyclability, and carbon reduction while safeguarding food safety.
“We are proud to collaborate with customers, suppliers, and partners on our journey to transform food systems for a low-carbon future. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of sustainable packaging that protects both food and the planet."