Summary
The undersigned associations representing different segments of the packaging value chain, urge policy makers to agree on effective and realistic measures for transport packaging during the trilogue negotiations on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Such measures should take into account the real impact that reuse obligations have on certain packaging formats and related products.
While we recognise that reuse has a role to play in accelerating packaging circularity, derogations should apply where the reusability of packaging does not provide the best overall environmental outcome or when reuse is not a viable option due to the specific requirements of the products packed, the impact on packaging performances and consequently, transport and food safety.
Flexible transport packaging formats including intermediate bulk containers, pallet wrappings, shrink wraps and stretch films are specifically intended to provide load stability thus securing the cargo and preventing potential accidents and damage. Pallet wrappings allow for the unitisation of goods, turning multiple items into a single, manageable load. This allows efficient handling during loading, unloading, and storage, reducing the time and work required for these processes.
Flexible formats also serve as a protective barrier against external elements, crucial to maintaining hygiene standards for packaging in contact with food, food ingredients or products that may be sensitive to moisture or contamination. This holds true also for insulation transport packaging which is primarily used for transporting medicines/vaccines, pharmaceuticals or food over long distances while maintaining the cold chain.
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