"Sustainable forestry will continue to come to the fore"

PAWI's sustainable, recyclable cardboard trays offer an environment-friendly alternative for packaging fruit and vegetables. Made from renewable raw materials, the tray is designed to provide optimal protection. The double-glued edge construction ensures maximum stability, while the moisture-repellent coating protects the delicate fruit from moisture and maintains its freshness. Since the trays are made of solid cardboard, they can simply be recycled as waste paper.

The PAWI Group, which has locations in Switzerland and Germany, has observed great interest in these solutions, as many companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable packaging solutions. "We are getting consistently positive feedback from customers looking for more environment-friendly alternatives. In addition to the cardboard trays for fruit and berries, we also offer other sustainable packaging solutions for fruit and vegetables. Our portfolio includes individually customizable cardboard packaging that meets the specific requirements of different types of fruit and vegetables. The basic requirement is that the respective packaging is stable and recyclable, as well as supporting efficient logistics."

Nevertheless, fruit and vegetable packaging must meet specific requirements that differ from other segments. "In terms of logistics and handling, our tray packaging is delivered to our customers already assembled. This saves valuable space, optimizes storage, and facilitates handling in further processing. Another advantage is moisture resistance: many fresh products release moisture. A special coating protects the packaging from becoming soaked and also maintains product freshness. Furthermore, good air circulation within the packaging is crucial to preserve the freshness of the products and prevent mold."

The stability of the packaging is also of great importance: "The packaging must be robust enough to ensure that the products, which are often delicate, can be transported and stored without being damaged. The double-glued edge construction ensures maximum stability and allows for easy filling – both by machine and manually. Finally, flexibility is also important. Different types of fruits and vegetables require specific packaging solutions that can vary in size, shape, and design to ensure optimal protection and presentation." By comparison, packaging in other segments, such as dry foods or non-food products, may have different requirements, such as a greater focus on barrier properties against light or oxygen.

Clear communication on recyclability
An important game changer in the area of fruit and vegetable packaging is the PPWR Packaging Regulation, which is to come into force throughout the EU on January 1, 2030, and is intended to regulate packaging and packaging waste more strictly and increase its recyclability. The PAWI Group expects the regulation to be particularly relevant in the fruit and vegetable sector, where a lot of disposable plastic packaging is commonly used. "Our impression is that awareness of sustainable packaging solutions in the industry continues to grow. Companies are seeking environment-friendly alternatives to meet the requirements of the regulation and reduce their environmental footprint. Even though PAWI mainly produces sustainable packaging made of cardboard and paper, the effects of the PPWR are significant for us. In particular, we have to adapt to new requirements in the areas of sustainability and recyclability. As a packaging supplier, we see it as our responsibility to support our customers with sound information so that they can easily meet the requirements of the regulation."

Clear communication regarding the recyclability and sustainability of the respective packaging should contribute to a smooth structural change, they further emphasize. "This not only makes it easier for our customers to comply with regulatory requirements but also optimizes our collaboration. As a packaging manufacturer, we aim to provide companies with comprehensive advice and offer them sustainable, customized packaging solutions. Thanks to our expertise, we develop packaging that not only meets legal requirements but also impresses in terms of functionality and design."

Growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions
According to the PAWI Group, the future of raw material procurement in the paper and cardboard sector will be significantly influenced by the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. "We expect that the topic of sustainable forestry will become even more prominent, as the procurement of raw materials from sustainably managed forests should ensure environmental compatibility. In addition, the further development of new materials and technologies is becoming increasingly important to increase efficiency in production and minimize the consumption of resources. To improve the circular economy, there will also be an increasing integration of recycled materials into production to reduce the demand for primary raw materials and promote closed material cycles. These developments require close cooperation along the entire supply chain to ensure the availability and the quality of raw materials while meeting environmental requirements," he concludes.

Photo credit: PAWI Group AG

For more information:
PAWI Packaging Deutschland GmbH
Lise-Meitner-Strasse 4
DE 78224 Singen
Tel: +49 7731 925 880
info@pawi.com
https://www.pawi.com/