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IN FOCUS SUSTAINABILITY
Dr. Christoph Hoffmann
climate protection. The rumour that PET contains plasticizers is still going around is another example. Nevertheless: All these discussions help us find out which packaging is optimal for which product. To assess this, suitable measurement parameters and, when appropriate, weighting and prioritization are required. And it is essential to communicate solutions in a traceable and plausible manner for the consumer. Ideally, this leads to understanding and cooperation.
models. We are well prepared for these situations. Our innovation management has defined search fields. Of course, one focus is sustainability, but age-appropriate packaging or the sensible use of new materials are also on this list. We can offer specific solutions. One result from the lightweight search field is “The Simple One”: A bottle that even works without the cap and up to 60 per cent lighter than standard bottles. Another example is the further development of a reusable water bottle in a joint project with KHS. The bottle is 10g lighter than current standard bottles, and recycled material can be used. Does ALPLA see itself as a pioneer in sustainability in the global packaging market? CH: That is absolutely true. In the speeches on the occasion of the generation change - handover of the CEO agendas from Günther Lehner to his son Philipp - both took up the topic. Innovations were and are the backbone of ALPLA. This shows the importance ALPLA attaches to sustainable developments. ALPLA is active worldwide and also has an overview of where recycling works. Do you have a chance, and if so, do you seize it to use your local knowledge to cooperate with governments, organizations, or push projects? Is this already leading to improvements in the world’s various regions, for example, to reduce marine littering? CH: Your question aims probably at regions where collection and recycling are not yet well developed. Of course, we get to know what is going on in the countries on these issues. We don’t always make great strides directly, but we do find that even small changes made through our initiatives can significantly impact. It is not an easy task, through our initiatives, to achieve something. But we are on the ball and take every opportunity.
We must continue to pursue our twin-track strategy and intensify our activities.
level. “Solution” stands for Reduce, Reuse, Replace, Recycle. All this has an impact on product development. And secondly, we have to enter into even more dialogue - with NGOs, with politicians, with consumers. ALPLA’s public relations work has become much more intensive. We are also breaking new ground in the media to enable dialogue with consumers. To raise awareness, to educate. For this, we use the channels that you use: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, other tools. We want to speak their language there and take every opportunity to spread facts. We have also entered into numerous partnerships that support our path. Does a customer who wants to fill a new product today have different expectations than ten years ago? CH: Yes, of course. If a customer is considering designing their new packaging with us, they have already decided on plastic packaging. Today people talk about recyclability, recycled material content and CO 2 reduction. It’s about mono-material, recycling- friendly design, energy-saving, etc. Our customers - whether brands or retailers - want to come onto the market with sustainable packaging solutions. Are there more inquiries for refill packaging and small package sizes for concentrates? CH: Yes, that’s a trend. There are interesting, modern approaches that require special packaging solutions. We are very open here and like to get involved with new ideas. This also means that we develop or adapt to new business
Does ALPLA have a plan?
CH: And how! We must continue to pursue our twin-track strategy and intensify our activities. Twin-track approach means: firstly, solution-oriented action and, above all, development on a technological
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