More and more agricultural businesses are choosing sustainable packaging

Sustainability Packaging

Staff Cart-One 17/06/2026 0

In recent years, the agricultural sector has undergone a profound transformation, driven by the urgent need to adopt sustainable packaging to reduce environmental impact and meet new market expectations. More and more agricultural businesses are choosing sustainable packaging. Agricultural companies, both large and small, are redefining their packaging strategies by turning to eco-friendly, recyclable, and biodegradable materials, in line with European directives promoting the circular economy. Read also: “Overpackaging: sustainable packaging starts with simplicity”

Regulatory Drivers and European Policies

In 2024, the European Parliament strengthened regulations on packaging and packaging waste to encourage supply chains, including the agri-food sector, to invest in green solutions that reduce waste and pollution. The goal is to reduce waste generation, increase the share of recyclable packaging, and discourage the use of non-compostable plastics. The key points of the new regulation are:

  • Reduction of single-use packaging;
  • Incentives for the adoption of biodegradable and compostable bioplastics;
  • Mandatory clear labeling to facilitate waste separation and recycling;
  • Promotion of eco-friendly packaging design.

The Most Widely Used Materials in Sustainable Agricultural Packaging

Italy ranks among the most advanced countries in the field of sustainable packaging, thanks to research and innovation in raw materials. Among the materials most commonly used by agricultural companies for sustainable packaging is corrugated cardboard, chosen for its light weight and ease of recycling, making it ideal for packaging fruit and vegetable products. Recycled paper is used for boxes and cartons, offering a low environmental impact alternative. The adoption of compostable bioplastics, derived from plant-based sources, is becoming increasingly widespread, particularly for bags and protective films used in agriculture. Another example is molded pulp, valued for its biodegradability and protective properties, and widely used in trays and egg packaging. These materials meet both preservation and transportation needs, integrating seamlessly into the new models of sustainable supply chains adopted by the agricultural sector.

The Perspective of Italian Agricultural Businesses

A recent survey by Coldiretti shows that more than 60% of agricultural businesses consider packaging sustainability a strategic driver of competitiveness. Choosing green packaging represents a dual opportunity: enhancing the value of agricultural products while improving corporate reputation among consumers, who are increasingly sensitive to environmental issues.

Consumer Impact and the Role of Large-Scale Retail

The ongoing transformation also reflects changing consumer habits in Italy: for 74% of consumers, the presence of sustainable packaging is a key factor when purchasing agri-food products. Large-Scale Retail Distribution (GDO) plays a significant role by steering suppliers toward eco-packaging solutions and encouraging low-impact supply chains. Sustainable packaging is perceived not only as a guarantee of product quality but also as a distinctive sign of the social and environmental responsibility of agricultural businesses.

Beyond Materials: Innovation in Design and Life Cycle Management

The commitment to sustainable packaging goes beyond material selection. The most innovative companies are investing in:

  • Design for recycling: packaging made up of easily separable components.
  • Collection and return systems for customer packaging;
  • The use of low-energy-consumption processes with reduced CO₂ emissions.

These approaches, based on the principles of environmental sustainability and eco-design, help close the packaging life cycle and reduce the risk of improper disposal.

Concrete Benefits and Future Prospects

Adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions allows agricultural businesses to:

  • Access new markets;
  • Improve product traceability through sustainable digital labeling;
  • Reduce waste management and disposal costs;
  • Strengthen competitiveness and brand positioning within the sustainable agri-food supply chain.

The transition toward sustainable packaging in agriculture is expected to accelerate in the coming years, driven by the expectations of younger generations and the growing demand for “green” products. Contact us for more information. You may also be interested in: “Updates on Packaging Regulations: Towards Safe, Sustainable, and Circular Packaging”

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