Since 12 August 2026, a new phase has begun for the packaging industry: the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has become applicable and is set to progressively replace Directive 94/62/EC, which for more than thirty years has been the main European regulatory reference for the sector.The new Regulation is part of the European Union’s broader efforts to protect the environment and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. In this context, packaging is one of the areas where action is needed to reduce resource consumption, limit waste generation and minimise the environmental impact of production activities. The PPWR also aims to prevent potential risks to human health arising from the presence of certain substances in packaging and to make the materials used safer.The PPWR therefore introduces new rules that will guide packaging towards a more circular model, addressing aspects such as design, recyclability, reduction of materials used, reuse and end-of-life management. The First Operational Changes With the application of the PPWR, some responsibilities are also changing for those who manufacture and place packaging on the European market. Manufacturers must verify that their packaging complies with the requirements set out in the Regulation, prepare the relevant technical documentation and draw up an EU Declaration of Conformity.The importance of information exchange is also increasing throughout the supply chain: suppliers of materials and packaging must provide the data and documentation required to demonstrate their compliance.This is one of the first tangible effects of the PPWR: alongside packaging performance, the traceability of information and the ability to document its characteristics are becoming increasingly important. Many of the more specific requirements, from recyclability to the new European labelling system, will instead come into force according to the deadlines established for the coming years. The Role of Corrugated Board In this emerging scenario, corrugated board starts from a favourable position: it is recyclable, can be customised through design and allows material, weight and volume to be optimised according to the product and the logistics chain. In addition, the European fibre collection and recycling system is already well established.The PPWR introduces new obligations for all packaging materials, but it also highlights some of the inherent characteristics of corrugated board. The ability to adapt format, structure and performance makes it possible to reduce waste and improve transport and distribution efficiency. Furthermore, cardboard boxes are exempt from certain reuse targets applicable to transport packaging.Corrugated board is not automatically compliant, however: fibre-based packaging will also have to meet the new design-for-recycling criteria and the future recyclability performance classes. For the industry, the PPWR therefore represents both a set of requirements to be met and an impetus to develop solutions that are more efficient, recyclable and aligned with the principles of the circular economy.

The machinery industry is preparing for a significant regulatory update with the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 on January 14, 2027. This Regulation will replace Directive 2006/42/EC, introducing new requirements for CE marking while harmonizing the rules across all European Union Member States. CE Marking for Machinery: What's Changing Under Regulation (EU) 2023/1230? The new framework is designed to improve safety, protect human health, and strengthen environmental protection while ensuring that European industry remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market. In this article, we explore the key provisions of the Regulation and its impact on designers, manufacturers, and economic operators. You may also be interested in: " Food Product Labeling: What's Changing Under the New MIMIT Guidelines " Regulation (EU) 2023/1230: A New Standard for Machinery Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 consists of 54 articles preceded by 86 recitals, which explain the reasons behind its adoption and highlight the improvements introduced compared with the previous Machinery Directive. Unlike a directive, a regulation is directly applicable in every EU Member State without requiring national implementing legislation. This eliminates differences in interpretation and ensures greater legal consistency across the European market. Objectives of the Regulation Article 1 defines the Regulation's primary objectives: Protect the health and safety of users, whether consumers or professional operators. Safeguard property and the environment by ensuring products meet high sustainability standards. Promote the design and manufacture of machinery that is safe, reliable, and fully compliant with European legislation. The Regulation applies to all parties involved in the design, manufacturing, importation, and distribution of machinery and related products, providing a clear framework for achieving a high level of safety and compliance. Scope of Application Article 2 specifies the products covered by the Regulation, including: Machinery, partly completed machinery, and safety components. Interchangeable equipment, lifting accessories, chains, ropes, belts, and removable mechanical transmission devices. Article 2 also lists the categories of products excluded from the Regulation, as specified in the final sections of the legislative text. Clear Definitions to Simplify Compliance One of the most significant innovations introduced by Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 is the inclusion of 36 standardized legal definitions, establishing a common terminology that simplifies the interpretation and application of the rules. Key definitions include: Machinery, partly completed machinery, safety component. Manufacturer, authorized representative, importer, distributor, and economic operator. CE marking, conformity assessment, Union harmonization legislation. Life cycle, substantial modification, instructions for use. These common definitions improve legal certainty while facilitating cooperation between manufacturers, notified bodies, and market surveillance authorities. Why Is This Regulation Important for the Machinery Industry? The transition from Directive 2006/42/EC to Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 is far more than a legislative update. It represents an opportunity to improve both product safety and operational efficiency while addressing the challenges of an increasingly digital, automated, and global marketplace. Key Improvements Enhanced safety and innovation: stricter requirements to protect users, with particular attention to emerging technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence. Regulatory harmonization: a directly applicable regulation eliminates differences between Member States, facilitating the free movement of products throughout the EU Single Market. Greater competitiveness for European companies: higher standards improve product quality, reliability, and international competitiveness. How Should Companies Prepare? To comply with the new Regulation, manufacturers should begin reviewing their processes well before its application date. Priority actions include: Review production processes: verify that machinery complies with the updated health and safety requirements. Update technical documentation: ensure manuals, instructions for use, and EU Declarations of Conformity reflect the new legal requirements. Work with notified bodies: select accredited conformity assessment bodies where required by the Regulation. Train personnel: ensure designers, engineers, technicians, and economic operators understand the new obligations introduced by Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. The Role of Packaging in CE Marking Compliance Packaging is more than a protective solution—it is also an essential tool for ensuring that CE marking information remains clear, legible, and compliant throughout the product's distribution. Cart-One offers tailored packaging solutions to help manufacturers adapt to the new regulatory framework: Custom packaging: designed to accommodate clear and durable labels that comply with European regulations. Product protection: robust, reliable packaging solutions that safeguard machinery and components during transport. Sustainability: environmentally responsible materials and innovative packaging solutions that support the Regulation's environmental objectives. By combining quality, design, regulatory compliance, and sustainability, Cart-One is the ideal partner for companies looking to meet the new standards while enhancing the value of their products. Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 marks a major step forward for the machinery sector, establishing higher standards for safety, innovation, and environmental responsibility. Complying with these requirements is not simply a legal obligation—it is an opportunity to improve products, strengthen market position, and build customer confidence. With Cart-One, you can rely on safe, compliant, and innovative packaging solutions designed to support your transition to the new regulatory framework. Contact us to learn how we can help your business comply with the new requirements and add value to your products. Read also: " Towards Decarbonisation: The Italian Paper Industry and the Challenges of the Green Transition "

Packaging is increasingly at the center of consumer choices, even in the food sector. The concern, in fact, is to have containers and packaging that not only effectively protect food, but that are also sustainable. The luck of a product on the shelves, therefore, is even more linked to the packaging, intended as a mix of materials and design from an Eco-design perspective, which allows to obtain the minimization of the packaging for a maximum yield in terms of conservation and freshness of the food. For an industry in the Food sector, not taking into account the new consumer orientations means leaving the market. What is changing in the habits of Italians and how consumer attitudes affect packaging? Italians are increasingly attentive to sustainability, including in the food sector. Consumption is in fact oriented to the deepening of the supply chain and therefore also of the packaging. According to the statistics that emerged from the 2021 edition of the Packaging Observatory of Largo Consumo created by Nomisma in collaboration with SpinLife of the University of Padua, it turned out that 33% of the Italians interviewed showed a greater propensity to assign a primary role to the environment in everyday choices. According to the findings, 65% of respondents prefer products with little packaging. 59% have purchasing habits that direct them towards products with sustainable packaging. 57% of respondents admit they are reducing the purchase of products with non-recycled plastic packaging. What will be the future of packaging in Italy? Sustainable packaging is also becoming an opportunity for consumers to assess the environmental impact of a brand. We know, in fact, that the packaging can be evocative and identifying the product, to the point of transmitting its values ​​only and exclusively through the sight of the package. In this sense, many brands are making efforts through targeted investments to research technologies that reduce the environmental impact of their business and work, at the same time, on the sustainability of packaging. On the other hand, such investments and improvements can cause increases compared to the price of a product. There is therefore still work to be done to give sustainable packaging the right importance in the perception of the consumer, especially as regards communicating the benefits that such actions can have on the environment and on improving the quality of life. CART-ONE, a company specializing in corrugated cardboard packaging, has always been at the forefront to help its partners in the creation of sustainable and recyclable packaging, with an enhancement in the supply chain of recycled raw materials and with a zero waste approach through the recovery of production waste.

In recent months, packaging has gained increasing importance in correspondence with the growth in consumption derived from online goods purchases. The recent Covid-19 epidemic has brought even the most skeptical closer, boosting purchases through digital platforms. Fashion, cosmetics, and groceries, but also sports equipment and entertainment products, have been purchased online more frequently, perhaps overcoming that barrier of skepticism concerning e-commerce. A greater demand for shipments corresponded to a greater need for packaging that could support the various industrial sectors. In this sense, packaging has become a true protagonist of this period. The competitiveness of an e-commerce platform is not only based on product quality, but also and above all on how the purchasing journey concludes. Leaving aside pre- and post-sales services, a user expects their delivery to arrive quickly and intact. All these demands also had to be accompanied by another factor, namely sustainability. According to estimates provided by Netcomm, 20 million monthly deliveries derived from e-commerce are generated in Italy alone. The flow of packaging is considerable, and precisely this supply of packaging can represent an opportunity for the recycling chain. Packaging: the need for a sustainable product The packaging generally used in the logistics chain consists of corrugated cardboard American boxes, although, for smaller items, paper or plasticized envelopes can be used, or with special padding in the case of more fragile objects. Companies that reached out to their customers through online trade therefore had to face the problem of what the best solution could be to ship their products in such a way that they could arrive intact at their destination. An increase in online purchases consequently corresponds to an increase in packaging placed into circulation, but all this must not necessarily translate into the creation of waste. In this sense, while little has changed for primary packaging—meaning that companies that had taken steps toward adopting production and distribution systems with a view to circularity continued on this path—for secondary packaging, the situation is quite different. The challenge was to find a strategy that reconciled environmental and forest ecosystem protection, the lowest possible use of packaging materials, and at the same time limiting the use of plastic. The answer consists in favoring products coming from the recycling chain, in order to implement an environmentally friendly strategy. Corrugated cardboard turned out to be the perfect candidate to fulfill all these needs precisely because it is biodegradable, resistant, and recyclable, but also made in turn with raw materials from the recycling chain. The importance of using corrugated cardboard packaging According to percentages gathered by the Italian Packaging Institute Database related to the packaging sector, it was concluded that 92% of orders are shipped in corrugated cardboard packaging. Through this material, different types of boxes can be produced, from larger to smaller sizes, which can be used both in manual and automated packaging lines. For smaller objects, such as stationery products, books, video games, etc., the use of rigid corrugated cardboard envelopes is widespread. It is estimated that in 2019, 293,000 tons of corrugated cardboard were used for the production of shipping boxes. After use, most packaging is destined for the recycling chain, fueling the production of new cardboard. In Italy, recovered packaging reaches a percentage of 80%, placing the country ahead of European directives, which require reaching the threshold of 85% recovery by 2030. CART-ONE is the ideal partner for companies operating in the digital trade sector that need to create customized packaging for shipping their products. Contact us to discover our proposals.

It has been exactly two years since the Alliance and its members were FFP certified. A lot has changed in that time. More than a year on from the start of the pandemic, there has been a seismic shift in ecommerce packaging that no-one could have predicted. Here, we will look at the key trends and impacts that were released at the last E-pack Europe event. Ecommerce business – adding complexity in the customer journey Before addressing the current situation, it is important to look at the background and evolution of ecommerce business and examine the key features. Digitisation has led to more complexity during the customer journey, multiplying potential touchpoints and creating a new distribution channel – ecommerce. The Internet has changed how we decide what to buy. In a physical shop, we are more governed by impulse and visual stimulation. Online, there are more variables, and research plays a much bigger role in purchase decisions. Google coined the term Zero Moment of Truth, or ZMOT, to describe the part of the buying process when the consumer researches a product prior to purchase. After that, there are multiple further “moments of truth” that move a consumer closer to buying: In this journey, ecommerce packaging plays a substantial role, since it is replacing the First Moment of Truth where a consumer sees a product for the first time. As such, it becomes one of the key brand assets, and box design is one of the success factors that we will explore later in this piece.  Ecommerce packaging  the challenges in supply and value chains  Every manufactured product can travel across many paths. The challenge is to understand and tackle where the value is.  The way a product is transported is very different for online channels than for standard ‘bricks & mortar’ distribution channels. For ecommerce purchases, each parcel can be handled up to 20 times more often! This means box design for ecommerce packaging solutions is considerably more complicated than the traditional retail model: Ecommerce business – the pandemic and the forecast of the “next normal” On 21st Jan 2021, at the all-digital CES (Consumer Electronic Show) 2021, a study revealed that COVID-19 increased ecommerce business by the equivalent of 10 years in just 8 weeks. The global ecommerce packaging market is currently estimated at $43.1 billion. With a 12% CAGR projected value, it could reach $75.1 billion by 2025 (Source Smithers Pira). All consumer packaged goods (PCG) segments were significantly impacted by the changes in consumer habits brought by COVID-19: At the E-pack Europe event in December, Google’s Miguel M. Avalos (Head of Commerce Product Marketing & Digital Acceleration Program), discussed some of the major search trends of the last year: ecommerce vs. physical – huge acceleration of ecommerce but we can expect a move back to “brick & mortar” retail as the effects of the pandemic recede   brand vs. marketplace – increase in owned ecommerce to allow better brand experience  curation vs. endless aisle – ‘endless aisle’ refers to the concept of enabling customers in the stores to virtually browse or order a wide range of products that are either out of stock or not sold in-store and have them shipped to the store or their home. During the pandemic, curation increased which allowed niche offering more than mass-offers   privacy vs. personalisation – while personalisation was a key trend and brought value to the customer, it has shifted to more “local” search in order to support business continuity close to people’s location  Nowadays, we can raise the following question: will this unprecedented growth in ecommerce sectors continue beyond the pandemic? Predictions of what the “next normal” will look like show some megatrends for the future. These will have to be integrated into the next ecommerce packaging and box design initiatives.  Ecommerce business –main stakeholder profiles and expectations  At the E-pack Europe event, moderator Jim Chrzan (VP Content and Brand Strategy at PMMI Media Group) made some interesting observations in his opening remarks: 75% of brand manufacturers are making changes to the secondary packaging   40% of brand manufacturers are considering changes to the primary pack  We also need to consider that the term ‘ecommerce packaging’ has different meaning for the three profiles in the value chain: E-consumer  Focus on unboxing and Ultimate Moment Of Truth as “wow” effect  Re–think secondary packaging as primary packaging  E-retailer/Logistician  Increase fulfilment efficiency  Reduce incidence of shipment damage  Minimise waste  Brand owner  Meet e-consumer and e-retailer requirements  Include smart packaging solutions  Increase omnichannel solutions  The trigger is to align interest on primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging so that brands are not affected and customers are not disappointed. As well as the logistics functionalities (containing, preserving and protecting) and information vehicle (branding, usage and promotion), box design should integrate new “must-have” attributes: Sustainability first  All around Europe, studies are aligned. As an example, a recent French study revealed: 98% of the population wants ecommerce packaging that will protect the product(s) from any damage  92% is concerned that the right volume of packaging should be used to reduce waste  89% demand recyclable packaging – knowing that mono-material box designs help to increase the recycle rate  85% wish to have reusable packaging options These figures can be extrapolated to any European country. Design for ecommerce business The success factors for a smooth, homogenous and omnichannel experience have to be identified and implemented according to the needs of all the various stakeholders. There are many factors to consider when it comes to ecommerce packaging. Optimising packaging design for brand owners, e-retailers and end consumers is now more important than ever. They can be sum-up in 8 criteria: Protection and security of your product(s): Ecommerce packaging has to be fit to size, securely closed and tested with dedicated methods. It will prevent damage and also thefts thanks to temper evidence. Easiness to erect and fill: To optimise efficiency and speed at the e-retailers Reclosing and reducing the environmental impact: box design should include “easy to return” features that allow reuse of the box – therefore enhancing its life cycle Optimisation: The entire ecommerce supply chain should be rethought and optimised to minimise void shipment – it is about moving from a palletisation logic to a “parcel” logic Ship-ready branded opportunity: Omnichannel options help merging primary and secondary ecommerce packaging, allowing brands to have a new territory to express their assets Increasing and facilitating the unboxing experience: For brand owners and brands born on the Internet – so called Digital Native Vertical Brands (DNVB) – the differentiating criteria will be in a box design with a great consumer experience Even though most of these elements are not new, tomorrow’s ecommerce packaging winners will be the ones that have identified these opportunities, with the upcoming increase of track and trace / smart ecommerce solutions. The success factors will be in working with a holistic approach to meet the demands of each stakeholders.

Paper and cardboard are materials that cannot be wasted. Their recycling brings numerous advantages at an industrial, but also environmental level. Recycling, in fact, means recovering precious raw material for the creation of new cellulose-based products. The environmental benefits are evident, especially regarding a more effective management of forest resources, applying better strategies for the protection and safeguard of ecosystems to the benefit not only of flora, but also of native fauna, so as to best preserve biodiversity. One fact is clear: the destruction of habitats and the compromise of forest ecosystems have forced wildlife into closer contact with humans and domestic, farm, and companion animals. This factor should not be underestimated because it is what opened the doors to the proliferation of new viruses, some of which are capable of causing global epidemics. What can each individual do? Recycling has a fundamental social importance: for this reason, new generations must increasingly adopt the mindset of a sustainable and “zero waste” lifestyle. This policy must also be supported through consumer choices, meaning by rewarding those companies that operate within the framework of circular and sustainable production. Each individual also bears a great responsibility regarding daily actions, such as conducting a mindful separate waste collection. Very often, attention is focused only on the characteristics of the material: if it looks like paper, then we throw the waste into the paper collection bin. Obviously, this is just one of the mistakes that can be made when recycling packaging. Let's see in practice how to encourage separate collection while avoiding compromising its effectiveness and ensuring that materials are properly sent for recycling. How to carry out the separate collection of paper and cardboard? When we need to separate paper or cardboard, we must be careful to pay attention to some fundamental aspects to ensure that waste is accepted into the recycling chain. How to deposit paper and cardboard for collection? If door-to-door collection is carried out, it is necessary to place the paper in a specific bag. Larger boxes must be reduced into smaller pieces or folded over themselves. If the paper is to be deposited at a public drop-off container or other public bin designated for collection, paper and cardboard must always be placed inside, without any other wrapping. Do not insert plastic bags or bags made of other materials, unless required by municipal regulations. Avoid leaving cardboard boxes outside, as they could get dirty, wet, and therefore degrade before being sent for recycling. How should paper packaging be before being thrown away? Generally, cardboard packaging is clean, whether it is a delivery box received from an e-commerce platform or a morning breakfast cereal box. But how do you recycle paper or cardboard that comes into contact with food? Let's look at a practical example, perhaps the most common case of all: takeaway pizza boxes. As a general rule, greasy paper or paper with food residues cannot be sorted into the paper collection. If municipal regulations allow it and the box bears the appropriate indication, food cardboard boxes can also be disposed of with organic waste. But what happens if the pizza box has an aluminum foil lining inside? Multi-material laminated materials are a true challenge for the recycling market. If your local pizzeria uses this type of box, it is helpful to know that with a little patience, you can separate the film from the cardboard itself, allowing you to place the entire box into the paper collection. Cardboard used to protect floors, for instance during wall repainting, cannot be thrown into the paper collection. This applies to all materials that come into contact with solvents and potentially toxic substances. Baking paper, tissues, and more: here are the most controversial materials Another doubt that often troubles individual citizens concerns tissues: can they be discarded in the organic waste collection or not? The answer is negative: tissues, despite being cellulose-based, cannot be thrown into the organic waste if they have been used. While wax papers, which often contribute to creating packaging for fresh food, cannot be recycled, baking paper deserves a separate discussion. Originally, this type of paper, once used, also had to be destined for the residual or unsorted waste collection. Increasingly, however, companies are producing biodegradable solutions that can be thrown into the organic waste after use. In this regard, it is recommended to always check the instructions on the packaging. Receipts cannot be disposed of with paper and cardboard, as they are made with thermal paper. Tape, staples, and ribbons: what to do when packaging features these details? Only clean paper and cardboard must be placed in the paper collection. In the case of moving house or purchasing appliances like air conditioners, you may find cardboard packaging with metal staples reinforcing the corners. To place the folded cardboard into the separate collection, you must remove these staples. If this operation proves difficult, it is best to cut the cardboard near the staples so that all the rest can be recycled. Adhesive tape is an enemy to paper and cardboard: remember to always remove it from boxes before throwing them away. A wide variety of new products are made from recycled paper and cardboard, ranging from corrugated cardboard packaging to stationery items and much more. Recycling also means supporting our country's economy through resource optimization and the savings resulting from purchasing new raw materials, which can be replaced, precisely, by recovered materials.

Paper has been one of the inventions that significantly changed human history. It replaced parchment and other supports used for writing, making the flow of information global and playing a fundamental role in the ability to pass down documents through time. Even after 2000 years, paper is still indispensable in our daily lives. Surely, the approach to this element has changed, and strategies have been designed to recover used paper and cardboard, which would otherwise end up increasing the volume of waste sent to landfills. At the same time, the production and sourcing system has changed, thanks also to the use of renewable energy and the careful management of forest heritage. Paper: a precious commodity to produce and recycle According to past methodologies, paper required a significant production effort, both regarding raw material sourcing and the energy used for production. Thanks to environmental policies implemented over the years, the spread of greater sensitivity towards environmental issues, and, last but not least, the dissemination of the concept of circular economy, the approach to paper and cardboard production has changed considerably. The widespread adoption of separate waste collection has allowed the recovery of raw materials, so even industries within the paper supply chain have launched strategies to recover production waste—just like CART-ONE—in order to convert reel waste as well. Thanks to paper recycling, we can obtain sheets of different weights and, at the same time, many types of colors. The packaging sector has also undergone a radical change by selecting eco-sustainable and recyclable solutions: in this case, a prominent place belongs to corrugated cardboard packaging, the main players in the e-commerce era. The importance of certifications in paper production “The area of forests in Europe has grown by nearly 3 million hectares (an area roughly the size of Greece) in the last 15 years, mainly due to the planting of new forests and the natural expansion of existing ones to encompass what was once agricultural land.” MCPFE, Ministerial Conference on the Protection of Forests in Europe. 2007. If we look back, this is the snapshot we recorded a few years ago. To this data, we can add that between 1990 and 2010, the forest area increased by about 11 million hectares. The increase is due to natural expansion and reforestation efforts. (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/factsheets/it/sheet/105/l-unione-europea-e-le-foreste) Forest exploitation is subject to regulations, which also include the reforestation of areas exploited for wood and paper production. Paper production is subject to certifications attesting its origin from sustainably managed sources. Among the certification systems, the main ones are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification). FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) This certification indicates that global standards for forest management are respected, maintaining the balance between environmental, social, and economic aspects. These standards are based on 10 Principles and 70 Criteria (Principles & Criteria, P&C). We can find FSC trademarks applied to products in the following ways: FSC 100% The FSC 100% label accompanies products made exclusively from inputs originating from FSC-certified forests. FSC Recycled This label bearing the wording FSC Recycled indicates that the wood or paper used to make the product comes from recycled and recovered material. FSC Mix The last label is named FSC Mix. It can be used when FSC-certified paper or wood, recycled material, and/or controlled wood have been used to create a product. PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) PEFC is a certification scheme that examines forest management from a sustainability perspective. To achieve certification, the Criteria and indicators defined in the Ministerial Conferences on the protection of forests must be respected. These guidelines are created to protect biodiversity and the very life of forests. Advantages of recycled paper and myths to debunk The use of recycled paper brings several benefits to the environment: It does not require cutting down new trees. Waste sent to landfills is minimized. The production process requires less energy. The production process with recycled paper requires less use of chemicals. The spread of recycled paper, however, has been hindered by the circulation of false myths such as: Recycled paper is more expensive: false Recycled paper is not more expensive than white paper; in the long run, it turns out to be more cost-effective. From a qualitative standpoint, it is inferior to white paper: false The processing techniques of recycled material allow us to obtain an aesthetically and qualitatively excellent product. Recycled paper is unhygienic: false The paper undergoes a treatment that reaches temperatures up to 150°C, which destroys pathogens and microorganisms. Recycled paper is now a fundamental resource to be cared for and managed to safeguard the environment and for a more sustainable and green life.

When it comes to food safety, packaging is an aspect that must be carefully considered. Especially in the case of primary packaging, which comes into direct contact with food, it is necessary to keep current regulations and their evolution in mind, in order to provide partners with top-level support. Food packaging manufacturers must not only comply with national provisions but are also required to know the regulations issued at the European level. Recently, Reg. (EU) 10/2011 underwent changes through the XV amendment. The evolution of FCM regulations and food packaging Products intended for food contact often involve combining plastic films and paper. The latter must comply with regulations before being placed on the market. The regulatory framework dealing with Food Contact Materials (FCM) is quite complex and, following the evolution of the packaging market and the introduction of new packaging solutions, it has expanded over time. Specifically, we can mention Reg. 178/2002, which introduced the theme of packaging safety from a food safety perspective for the first time. Another step forward is represented by the Framework Regulation for all FCMs through Reg. 1935/2004. In Article 3 of this document, a very important concept is stated: packaging in contact with food must not pose a risk to the consumer, and the organoleptic characteristics of the product must be preserved. Reg. 2023/2006 focused on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The regulation aims to govern all actions that safeguard the compliance of FCMs at every stage of their life cycle: from production to final use. Specific regulations: which materials are subject to ad hoc requirements? European regulations are enriched by five specific regulations concerning materials such as regenerated cellulose, ceramics, active and intelligent materials, plastic objects, and recycled plastic. Furthermore, there are regulations dedicated to certain starting substances useful for the production of FCMs. The only materials not subject to a specific regulation are paper and cardboard. In this case, Member States can refer to national standards. The new Regulation (EU) 1245/2020 - plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food: what does the standard prescribe? Among the most comprehensive and complex documents is certainly Regulation (EU) 10/2011, which concerns plastic materials and articles intended to come into contact with food. The regulation has been revised and amended several times based on natural changes, as well as a new ecological awareness that favors leaner, more sustainable, and recyclable packaging. A recent amendment, dating back to September 2, 2020, is represented by the XV amendment of the European Commission. Through this document, the aim was to restrict the use of certain substances; therefore, the amendment presents new authorized substances and establishes new migration limits for other substances. Furthermore, to make the restrictions on the use of certain materials more effective, the XV amendment adds and modifies some of the procedures and conditions present in Annex V, which focused on migration testing. In essence, the XV amendment replaces Annex II on restrictions for certain materials and also for plastic articles. In this case, we are talking about metals and primary aromatic amines. The measure also replaced the Declaration of Compliance (DoC), regulated in point 6 of Annex IV. Other heavy metals have been added to the currently active list of unsafe materials. Among the latter, we can include arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, and antimony. Restrictions are present for certain types of plastics and lanthanides, such as lanthanum, europium, gadolinium, and terbium for polyolefins. The changes introduced, however, do not eliminate previously established measures. In fact, the modifications apply to production and not to products already placed on the market or present as stock. To meet these requirements, the product must have been placed on the market for the first time on March 23, 2021. How to handle multilayer and multi-material packaging? Another issue closely affecting the paper production and processing sector is multilayer and multi-material packaging. In detail, if a multilayer packaging has a plastic part that comes into direct contact with food, it must possess all the characteristics required by the regulation. If the plastic layer is separated from the food by a functional barrier, then other materials not present in the regulation may also be used, provided they are not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic. In such cases, European regulations defer to national laws. For years, CART-ONE has held a leading position in the production of corrugated cardboard packaging. Thanks to a know-how oriented towards innovation and the search for specific solutions for each customer, we are the perfect partner to support companies in the Food & Beverage sector that want to focus on cutting-edge and eco-sustainable solutions.

The beverage sector also needs to renew its packaging to meet the greatest needs in terms of sustainability and recycling. In detail, among the solutions that can make the market evolve in this direction, we find beverage cartons. The latter represent a packaging solution that combines several factors that determine its sustainability, including easy recyclability and low carbon emissions to protect food and beverages, so as to allow safe transport and use. What will the beverage packaging of the future be like? ACE, The Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment, together with its members, including SIG Combibloc, BillerudKorsnäs, Elopak, Stora Enso and Tetra Pak, spoke on this topic. All the forces in the field, in fact, aim for the future to create an increasingly sustainable, renewable, recyclable cellulose-based packaging that has the least possible impact on the environment. Implementing this roadmap will require decisive action on the entire supply chain, in order to obtain a production that is correctly oriented towards the creation of green packaging. First of all, work will have to be done on sustainable procurement and on the recovery and recycling of materials placed on the market. In detail, the 10 commitments that must allow a more sustainable production of beverage cartons can be deduced from the roadmap drawn up. Separate collection: its critic role in sustainable development The first and ambitious commitment is to reach 90% of separate waste collection, with a recycling rate of at least 70% within the next 10 years. Separate collection, if done correctly, can become a real resource that reduces the need to find raw material based on virgin cellulosic, so as to have additional attention to forest ecosystems. Decarbonisation strategy: continuing the fight against climate change We have already spoken in the past of the importance of decarbonization strategies, protagonists of a real revolution in the fight against climate change. Also for the packaging sector for beverage products, this objective is put in black and white through the implementation of decarbonisation strategies of the production and distribution chain. The goal is to achieve the reduction of 1.5 ° degrees / centigrade set by the "Science Based Targets initiative". Forecast for 2030: this is how the beverage carton will be composed If the commitments are maintained not only by companies, but also through political measures at European level that aim to foster innovation and sustainable packaging production and the economic benefits that these entail for the manufacturing companies themselves, then we will have a modern beverage packaging. and suitable to meet the needs of the modern consumer. By working with a supply chain approach, it will therefore be possible to obtain a packaging with the following characteristics: In renewable and / or recycled material in its entirety Fully recyclable and recycled Made with sustainable and certified raw materials even in the case of virgin raw material Packaging solutions with the lowest carbon footprint will be preferred The beverage packaging production sector chooses the path of the circular economy and recycling to respond to the challenges in Europe, so as to contribute to the achievement of climate neutrality in support of the protection of biodiversity and the environment, while always having as objective consumer health and safety.

Shrink film is one of the most often used packaging in the Food & Beverage sector. This type of packaging is suitable for manual and automatic lines and represents an optimal way to seal products. While representing an economic and sustainable method, perfect for the needs of large retailers, at the same time its environmental impact cannot be denied when it becomes waste. The shrink film, if not made with biodegradable films, often becomes a mere waste without any possibility of being differentiated. The question to ask, therefore, is: is shrink film always necessary? The ecological alternatives to shrink film More and more consumers today are demanding sustainable packaging for the products they buy. This trend is encouraged by a greater green culture and a wider awareness of the damage caused by global warming and climate change, mainly due to a lifestyle based solely on use and consumption. Recycling is now a reality to which consumers are accustomed, but at the same time the latter are always looking for a product that has a packaging that can be easy to differentiate. For shrink film, however, this may not always be the case. In addition to the production of biodegradable films or films made of recycled plastic that can be used in contact with food, one wonders if the shrink film is really indispensable for the Beverage sector. As for the bottles, the shrink wrap performs the function of transporting several bottles at the same time. Let's think, for example, of the classic water packaging, where the bottles are held together by the wrapper. In these cases, transport solutions in other materials, such as corrugated cardboard, can also be used. This is the revolution brought about by ECOGRIP. Cardboard packaging: a sustainable resource With ECOGRIP a new approach to packaging opens up. The product was developed by Blue Box Partners, the European alliance of cardboard packaging manufacturers to which Sada and Sandra belong thanks to their participation in the Cart-One network. The aim was to provide a sustainable alternative for bottle transport. ECOGRIP offers the possibility of eliminating the shrink film in favor of a 100% biodegradable solution, coming from recycled raw materials and in turn recyclable. ECOGRIP was conceived on the basis of an Eco - design philosophy that avoids wasting raw materials while maximizing results.

In our previous article, we described the key drivers of ecommerce packaging and the three main stakeholders in the value chains. Today, we will focus on e-consumers and how to create a memorable unboxing experience. We will first redefine where the term comes from. Then, we will identify how ecommerce packaging plays a crucial role during all ‘Moments Of Truth’. Finally we can make assumption about the key future trends. Please enjoy reading the piece, along with some wonderful examples of how our European teams have already started to create compelling packaging designs. Memorable unboxing experience – Why and when? “If companies want to increase their profile, specifically on social media, they must invest in the box as much as the product.” Paul Marsh, Managing Director – The Packaging Experts A memorable unboxing experience occurs when a consumer is so inspired by the packaging and the visual impact of a product they have bought online, they want to share it on social media. The ways consumers interact with ecommerce packaging – how they receive it, open it and engage with it - provide a big opportunity for brands, and can even help them go viral. But when did this new trend appear in the digital world? What is its evolution and how can we explain it? According to Google trends, people have been talking about their “unboxing experiences” for many years, but the term became widespread in 2008, as the “Unboxing Ceremony of Nokia E61” was the first to be recorded and published on youtube. Since then, the trend has grown to reach a peak in 2014, before stabilizing until 2019, and decreasing slightly in the last two years (probably due to Covid’s impact). However, most years there are substantial peaks in the month leading up to Christmas. Our role is then to co-create with our customers memorable unboxing experiences. How? By identifying the best opportunities to increase brand loyalty across the different Moments Of Truth. As we looked at in our previous article, these are shown below: Source: Google Memorable unboxing experience – A vehicle of brand image and message “If you were a customer who ordered something online, which is going to make you feel more valued: your purchase arriving in a generic cardboard box, or in attractive, bespoke packaging?” Beth Owens – Marketing Strategist Online purchasing is a completely different experience to shopping in physical premises. All of the touchpoints within the customer’s journey are changed, with ecommerce packaging replacing the role of traditional primary packaging. Let’s start with the arrival at the doorstep, which marks the start of the Second Moment Of Truth. At this stage, the ecommerce packaging is the first thing a customer sees, and is therefore responsible for carrying a brand’s key messages, including its sustainability policy. In the below example, developed by the Blue Box Partners’ Alliance, the packaging design generates a great first impression. It provides fantastic incentive to open, and promises to deliver a memorable unboxing experience. According to Dotcom Distribution, 40% of online shoppers would share an image of their purchase on social media if it came in branded packaging . Memorable unboxing experience – The Ultimate Moment of Truth or the way to go viral! A great unboxing experience is like the cherry on the cake: the final thing that makes something perfect! Ecommerce packaging can prolong the consumer’s exposure to a brand’s vison and allow a wider scope for positioning and storytelling. As they open the box, consumers will continue their journey, offering the brand further opportunity to display coherent and homogeneous messages. At the same time, brands can propose additional services, and further information on how to reuse their packaging. In the first example, parents can build a baby mobile for their children: This is similar to Amazon’s initiative in July 2020, “Less packaging, more smiles” which encouraged consumers to upcycle the boxes into pet houses and robot costumes. Or this example below, where online shoppers are invited to reuse the box to sell items of clothing on Vinted! In both these examples, you can clearly see that packaging design enhances the brand narratives. It is not just “a box”, but a chance to take customers on a journey,which is vital for inspiring repeat business. And, according to Forbes, acquiring new customers can cost up to five times more than retaining your existing base. Ecommmerce packaging – Reusability and returnability features to ease sustainable behaviours The next example raises curiosity and awareness of after-use recycling possibilities. Research shows 62% of online shoppers are more likely to purchase from brands using sustainable packaging. Moreover, “Returnability” features are key: they simplified life for the consumer by using glue tapes to reclose and resend the original product. These examples, all made out of corrugated cardboard, a mono-material solution that enhances recycling rates. Using sustainable products and communicating about it allows brands to cultivate an image of strong ethics and social responsibility. It has become a global concern, clearly shown by an increase in searching results of 140% within the last 12 months. Finally, as we discussed at the beginning of the article, the concept of the “unboxing experience” started with electronic products. Let’s close the loop with another example from that industry. First of all, consumers today are equipped with more electronic devices than ever before. The average UK household owns 9.16 devices. Secondly, society is increasingly concerned by the impact of so many electronic devices on the environment. Therefore, we are seeing a huge demand for reconditioned products that are delivered online. To avoid shipping the original box inside a new box, we can offer a packaging design solution with a retention system that overcomes logistic strains while minimising resources and void. To conclude, Packaging design has become a powerful tool that can have an impact throughout the customer journey. Not only does it help to engage and inform consumers, it can help to retain them too. As a result, packaging plays an important role throughout the act of purchasing, where consumers are influenced not only by a product, but by the entire memorable unboxing experience – resulting in the Ultimate Moment of Truth. Seduced by unexpected extra offers or benefits within the ecommerce packaging, the consumer will be keen to share the moment with others, creating viral content that will increase eWOM (e-Word Of Mouth), and become the Zero Moment Of Truth (ZMOT) for another consumer looking online for the same or a similar product. What can we expect for the future ecommerce packaging? As technology continues to evolve, and advancements such as AR (Augmented Reality) or IoT (Internet of Things) become commonplace, the concept of a memorable unboxing experience becomes even more important. Companies will need their brand perception to evolve alongside their products, and packaging design has a crucial part to play in promoting both consumer engagement and sustainability. If you need support in designing packaging for e-commerce, our team is at your complete disposal: contact CART-ONE for a personalized consultation.

Paper is increasingly at the center of the Food and Beverage sector due to its intrinsic characteristics. This material, in fact, can define a natural, biodegradable and recyclable product. All these features are perfect for cellulose-based packaging to be used in contact with food. In the next paragraphs we will evaluate the consequences related to the use of packaging with respect to food waste, especially given the increase in sales from e-commerce and food delivery. Food waste in a pandemic: the numbers Food waste is still one of the most common problems related to the welfare society. An estimated 3,624,973 tons of food were wasted in 2020. However, despite the boom in e-commerce and food delivery, there is a decrease of 11% nationally, given by Waste Watchers 2021 on the occasion of the eighth day against food waste. The greater awareness has led the consumer to implement strategies that also involve packaging, which today becomes a faithful ally in the fight against waste. Paper and cardboard in the consideration of consumers Paper and cardboard play a fundamental role in the preferences of Italians because they combine safety and sustainability. The Waste Watchers report we cited earlier demonstrated how our fellow citizens have implemented strategies that have helped limit food waste. The situation of uncertainty and the restrictions imposed on circulation have changed spending habits with more prudent and conscious choices, including that of favoring efficient and sustainable packaging. Packaging of paper and cardboard: how innovation allows the transport and storage of food The paper industry sector has always worked to develop innovative products, so that increasingly high-performance solutions can be obtained that offer safety and sustainability performance. This concept led to a study conducted by Comieco, the National Consortium for the Recovery and Recycling of Cellulose-Based Packaging, and by the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna of Pisa. The study showed that innovative materials such as nanocellulose offer perfect preservation guarantees and a high degree of recyclability. These features allow for great application possibilities. The food packaging scenario, based on the goals achieved, is destined to change and transform itself in an increasingly sustainable and circular perspective. In particular, at the heart of the development of new solutions is the series of products for food delivery. This segment has experienced a boom in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. This impulse has accelerated already evolving processes and encouraged the realization of new projects. From doggy bags to pizza cartons, passing through food bags, paper and cardboard are confirmed in first place in consumer preferences. According to a study by Two Sides, Packaging in the eyes of the European consumer, 2020, paper and cardboard are confirmed the top choice of European consumers: the latter have declared that they absolutely prefer this material for its sustainability and ease of recycling. CART-ONE, thanks to the experience and know-how consolidated over time, is your trusted partner for the production of customized packaging for the Food sector. Discover our innovative proposals for sustainable cardboard packaging.