The recent IPCC report has shown us that climate change is having disastrous effects across the globe, disrupting natural systems, raising sea-levels, forest fires and more. To combat climate change, governmental action and environmental laws have been implemented in several countries.

However, despite these efforts, the target of reaching net-zero by 2050 and halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is still out of sight according to UK-based data analytics company GlobalData.

The good news is that the IPCC report still believes there is time to do something about this – if we act fast. Whilst all eyes are on governments, we all of course have a responsibility to reduce carbon emissions in all our personal and business activities.

How the plastic packaging industry contributes to climate change

The plastic industry is well known for the damaging effects it has on the environment.

Plastic pollution threatens wildlife and spreads toxins; we are all familiar with the images of animals wrapped in plastic bags, or birds trying to feed their young on plastic particles. But what contribution is plastic production making to carbon emissions and climate change? 

According to UK-based environmental organisation Friends of the Earth, the manufacturing process of plastic is responsible for 5% of greenhouse gas emissions.

The extraction process of fossil fuels releases dangerous greenhouse gases and is known to be the largest contributor to climate change. Plastic relies on these fossil fuels and contributes to the overall demand for oil.

According to the IPCC report we could be facing a troubling future if the intensive use of fossil fuels continues, as you can see by the graph below. Switching to sustainable packaging can help reduce the use of fossil fuels and contribute to the ‘Future based on sustainability’ line demonstrated on the graph.

Test Valley Packaging’s low carbon footprint 

Paper is the most sustainable option when it comes to packaging; it does not rely on the extraction of oil, is widely recycled and is truly biodegradable.  At Test Valley we also use 100% paper recycled products wherever possible, which has a lower carbon footprint than virgin paper.

Test Valley Packaging has a strong sustainable ethos and continually innovates to bring the best paper protection products to the market. Any businesses considering switching from plastic void fill packaging can do so with confidence with Test Valley. With our compact and efficient systems, we can help make your switch cost neutral whilst improving pack speeds and increasing protection.

Four ways Test Valley Packaging help provide low carbon footprint sustainable packaging

1. Our Paper

All of our paper is produced in the UK from sustainably managed sources and made from 100% recycled paper.  This gives customers the confidence that our products are truly sustainable and allowing them to provide low carbon footprint packaging to consumers. 

2. Our Machines/Benches

As part of our goal to provide low carbon footprint products, all machines and machine parts are sourced in the UK. Along with our packing benches being produced and manufactured in our Salisbury facility, cutting out the heavy footprint that comes with sourcing parts from overseas. 

3. Our Distribution 

One of the many benefits that comes with our Cushioning Paper is that 32 rolls, or 9600 metres of it can fit on one pallet. This is thanks to its unique pre-folded design, which means it is more compact, stable and easier to handle. This is a great saver on carbon footprint, with the ability to make fewer deliveries when distributing. 

4. Cushion Integrity 

The strength and cushion integrity of our Test Valley Paper allows packers to reduce their usage by up to 50%. The void fill solution is both robust and easily mouldable. Because of the way the Test Valley paper is creased and crimped it secures and cushions your products, absorbing shock and eliminating movement in transit. Reducing your packaging use is a simple way to lower your carbon footprint.

Following this week’s IPCC report, no doubt the majority of businesses will be doubling down on reducing its carbon footprint. If you are one of them, whether you are currently using plastic packaging or potentially over-packing with ineffective paper, Test Valley Packaging can help you.  We are offering live demonstrations to showcase our industry leading paper packaging & integration services and showing packing techniques that are guaranteed to reduce your usage and result in a lower carbon footprint. 

Get in touch with us today and arrange your free virtual demonstration sales@testvalleypkg.co.uk or call us on 01722 414800 or contact us here