The Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging’s founding members encompass Huhtamaki, Coveris, Benders Paper Cups, Colpac, Seda, Sonoco, ProAmpac, Sabert, Graphic Packaging, The Vending and Automated Retail Association, and The European Carton Makers Association.
Its aims including boosting representation in the development of packaging waste regulations as the UK moves to the producer pays model, as well as for future recycling and waste policy development.
The move was welcomed by industry bodies Incpen and The Recycling Association.
Paul Vanston, CEO of the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (Incpen), commented: “Fibre-based packaging is part of daily life in homes and businesses across the UK, supporting the country’s economic growth.
“I’m delighted the new Alliance has been set-up, and Incpen will work constructively with the Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging as we do across the essential UK materials sectors.”
Paul Sanderson, CEO of The Recycling Association, said he look forward to developing a partnership with the Alliance to ensure that fibre and fibre-based packaging was designed to be recyclable while also protecting the product within it.
“Working across the value chain is essential as we look to develop the circular economy, and the Alliance will be a vital part of that,” he noted.
Alliance co-chair Neil Whittall, head of sustainability at Huhtamaki Fiber Foodservice EAO said: “As fibre-based packaging options become more common as a renewably sourced and low carbon alternative to fossil-based products, it is essential that as much fibre-based packaging material as possible is collected, sorted and recycled.
“Our businesses are committed to working closely with the UK government and stakeholders to ensure that the detailed implementation of waste and recycling policies supports this outcome.”
Instinctif Partners and Dram Communications will act as the Alliance secretariat.
Other members are expected to be announced soon, with participants welcome from across the fibre-based packaging value chain, including raw material suppliers, convertors, distributors, retailers and other stakeholders.
