Definition of Sustainable Packaging

Highlights
Definition of Sustainable Packaging – Download

In 2005, the SPC completed version 1.0 of the Definition of Sustainable Packaging. This definition represents an important first step in articulating a common understanding of the term “sustainable packaging.” It provides a common vision and a framework for understanding activities directed toward improving packaging, and continues to inform the future vision of the coalition and its individual member-companies. This definition has been widely adopted throughout the packaging industry.

Sustainable Packaging:

	•	Is beneficial, safe & healthy for individuals and communities throughout its life cycle;
	•	Meets market criteria for both performance and cost;
	•	Is sourced, manufactured, transported, and recycled using renewable energy;
	•	Optimizes the use of renewable or recycled source materials;
	•	Is manufactured using clean production technologies and best practices;
	•	Is made from materials healthy in all probable end of life scenarios;
	•	Is physically designed to optimize materials and energy;
	•	Is effectively recovered and utilized in biological and/or industrial closed loop cycles.

Together, these criteria characterize our vision of sustainable packaging. No ranking is implied in the order of definition criteria.

Definition of Sustainable Packaging

Highlights

Sustainable Packaging: