FEFCO Welcomes New Circular Economy Action Plan In light of the EU last week releasing its Circular Economy Action Plan, FEFO released a statment prais- ing the plan. The circular economy is vital for achieving the Green Deal ambition for climate neutrality, preserving natu- ral resources and supportingthe competitiveness of the European economy, FEFCO said. The sustainable product policy framework could be a real driver for circularity, which starts with the right selection of raw materials and the efficient use of resources. The bioeconomy plays a key role by providing renewable fibre-based materials as a sustainable alternative to oth- er finite resources. Supporting The Initiative FEFCO said it was pleased with the Commission initiative to support the “sustainable and circular bio- based sector.” Recycling gives valuable materials like paper and board a long-life span.The circular economy needs recycling as much at it needs waste prevention and re-use to keep the materials in the loop and to minimise the use of resources. Designing sustainable products is key and should be a requirement for all packaging.
The paper and board industry already issued “Pa- per-based packaging recyclability guidelines” to sup- port the industry and its customers in building cir- cularity into their products, said FEFCO. Corrugated cardboard packaging is a real example of circu- larity and sustainability. Paper comes from a renew- able source and we use recycled paper as a major raw material, optimising the use of natural source and reducing the environmental impact, FEFCO said in the statement. “On average corrugated packaging contains 89 percent recycled content and is circular by na- ture,” said Angelika Christ, FEFCO Secretary Gener- al. Packaging plays a key role in protecting products and ensuring safe delivery and storage, maintaining the quality of the product and often extending shelf life of fresh food.While overpackaging should be re- duced, underpackaging can have a hugely negative impact on the environment. Packaging fit for pur- pose can prevent food waste and support the EU am- bition and the UN Sustainable Development regard- ing food loss and waste. In conclusion, FEFCO stated that it is essential to maintain the competitiveness of the EU industry and to support its growth while protecting the environment and building a new cir- cular economy.
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