Reducing the environmental impact of packaging: what Europe mandates

Certifications are crucial to establish compliance with specific standards that allow a company to gain greater prestige in terms of market presence. Today, we will delve into the UNI EN ISO 14001 certification, which defines the standard and requirements for an “Environmental Management System”. This type of certification can be implemented within any type of organization. What is the purpose of the UNI EN ISO 14001 certification? Achieving this certification significantly reduces the liability of any type of organization with respect to environmental legislation. In detail, if the company or organization meets the necessary requirements, the certification serves to attest to the commitment shown, both in terms of achieving environmental performance and from the perspective of the virtuous goals that will shape the future of the company itself. Holding an Environmental Management System certification, therefore, publicly certifies a corporate path dedicated to environmental protection. This grants organizations access to various types of advantages, such as the possibility of obtaining specific authorizations or recognitions that allow for tax benefits. This certification sometimes constitutes a prerequisite that allows the certified organization or company to participate in tenders or public procurement procedures. How is compliance with the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System declared? As mentioned, UNI EN ISO 14001 gathers standards with which companies and organizations must comply in order to be awarded this recognition. In this sense, the first step to follow is to establish the environmental impact that one's business has on the territory and the community it affects. To do this, it is necessary to carry out an Environmental Analysis.  During this analysis, several aspects will be examined, including: the use of resources, emissions resulting from one's activity, and so on. Not only that, but the company must also demonstrate a flexible organization capable of managing, within the current regulatory framework, the requirements applicable to that specific type of business, thereby significantly influencing its impact. Companies and organizations wishing to apply for this certification must specify their Corporate Policy, which must be consistent with the commitments and goals to be achieved regarding environmental protection and the reduction of impacts strictly related to their business type. Within the process to become a UNI EN ISO 14001 certified company, specific environmental responsibilities are also established. Once awarded, the certification seals the commitment made to define, implement, and maintain active the conditions that enabled the achievement of this milestone. This means the company is called upon to continuously respect the imposed standards and requirements. The advantages of the UNI EN ISO 14001 certification: what do they consist of? Achieving the UNI EN ISO 14001 certification is advantageous from multiple points of view.  The advantage is for the Environment: implementing an Environmental Management System means a conscious use of resources. The ability to recognize one's environmental impact allows for the application of coherent strategies to reduce the pollution of soil, air, and water.  The advantage is for the company: in fact, there are several benefits to achieving this certification. Beyond the increase in prestige that this recognition brings, the company also acquires greater authority regarding market positioning. In this sense, we can recognize a competitive advantage for certified companies. As mentioned at the beginning, the certification grants access to tenders where it is explicitly stated as an essential requirement for participation. The certification also allows for the reduction of direct and indirect environmental costs. Last but not least, greater efficiency is achieved at both operational and managerial levels. The advantage is for potential partners: relying on a certified company for one's partnerships allows for the maximization of efforts in the area of environmental protection. In the field of corrugated cardboard packaging production, CART-ONE stands out as a company, not only for having achieved the prestigious UNI EN ISO 14001 certification, but also for putting into practice a corporate policy aimed at reducing environmental impact, in addition to being at the forefront of combating waste, directing production waste to the recycling supply chain to eliminate waste while generating new raw materials. Are you looking for a serious and reliable partner for the production of corrugated cardboard packaging and displays? Contact us. We can assist you in creating your customized, ecological, and sustainable packaging.

The food industry is increasingly aware of the importance of environmental sustainability. In this context, material recycling and reuse play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of the entire production chain, from the factory to the consumer and the end business. Sustainability: recycling and reuse for a second life of materials. This article will explore how our commitment can support companies across various food sectors in adopting sustainable practices through our innovative packaging. Read also: “Eco-sustainability and packaging: a review of 2023” Recycling and reuse against the environmental emergency We live in an era where the environmental crisis is an inexorable reality. Natural resources are depleted, waste is increasing, and climate change is becoming more and more evident. In this scenario, it is vital to adopt practices that reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. Recycling is one of the most powerful tools available to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources. Separating waste, recovering materials, and reintroducing them into the production cycle is a practice that everyone can adopt. Aluminum, plastic, paper, and glass are just a few examples of materials that can be recycled to reduce the use of virgin resources. Reuse goes beyond mere recycling, encouraging creativity and reflection on our consumer society. Reusing objects or materials instead of throwing them away can mean less production of new goods and, consequently, a smaller amount of waste. Furthermore, reuse promotes the idea that every object has the potential for a second life. Sustainability as a competitive advantage in B2B The food industry is constantly evolving, driven by the need to adopt sustainable practices. Cart-One is actively committed to meeting the specific needs of each product sector. In partnership with its customers, Cart-One offers a flexible and efficient service, developing optimization projects and eco-sustainable solutions that contribute to giving materials a second life. Pasta and Bakery: Cart-One develops customized biodegradable packaging, reducing waste and ensuring a positive ecological footprint; Water, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic beverages: the bottles produced by Cart-One for the water and beverage sector are engineered to be recyclable and robust, offering a sustainable option without compromising quality; Canned tuna: innovative packaging solutions, meeting the specific needs of the customer for a more sustainable supply chain; Fruit, vegetables, and dairy: Cart-One works with fruit, vegetable, and dairy suppliers to optimize packaging, reducing unnecessary materials and promoting more sustainable logistics; Sweets and chocolate: eco-friendly packaging solutions, helping to reduce costs and demonstrating a tangible commitment. Active collaboration for a sustainable future Cart-One is not just a packaging supplier, but an active partner in the transition toward sustainable practices. Our collaboration with food industry companies aims to develop concrete cost reduction and optimization projects, while ensuring a positive environmental footprint. Through the flexibility of our services, open collaboration with clients, and continuous research into sustainable solutions, we guide companies and individuals toward an eco-friendly future. To facilitate the ecological transition, businesses can still implement a series of best practices, such as: Environmental audit: a thorough analysis of the environmental impact of one's production chain; Research and development: to discover new sustainable materials and processes; Effective communication: transparently communicating sustainable initiatives to businesses and end consumers; Participation in environmental initiatives: to demonstrate ongoing commitment. Adopting sustainable practices in the food industry not only helps preserve our environment but can also serve as a competitive advantage in the B2B market. Companies investing in sustainability today are building the foundations for a greener and more prosperous future. Cart-One stands out for its deep sensitivity toward environmental protection policies. We have always been not just supporters but active players in the circular economy. Our production model embraces the concept of "produce, consume, regenerate, recover", transforming our production waste into a new reel and, subsequently, into a box within our plants. Contact us for more information or to request a free quote for your packaging. To learn more: “Sustainable and recycled paper for product packaging: case studies”

The Italian paper sector is facing an epochal transition phase toward sustainability and decarbonization, with the goal of drastically reducing CO₂ emissions and aligning with European standards for climate neutrality. Presented in Rome, the Assocarta study examined strategies for a competitive decarbonization of the paper industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities linked to electrification and the use of renewable energy sources. Towards decarbonization: the Italian paper industry and the challenges of the green transition. In this article, we will explore the key points of the study and how Cart-One's initiatives fit into this framework of environmental sustainability. To learn more: “29th Comieco Report: paper and cardboard recycling in Italy, 2023 marks a new historic record” Decarbonization and competitiveness for the paper sector The path toward decarbonization is not only a necessity for the protection of the planet, but also a challenge that can transform into a competitive advantage for companies in the paper sector. According to the Assocarta study, the Italian paper sector can become a model of excellence in Europe thanks to a mix of green technologies and innovative solutions to reduce the carbon footprint. Assocarta emphasizes that Italy, with a very prominent paper production at a European level, finds itself needing to implement concrete measures to reduce emissions. Among the proposals put forward by the study, the electrification of processes and the adoption of renewable energy sources emerge as key elements to accelerate the energy transition and maintain the sector's competitiveness. Electrification and green sources: strategies for the energy transition Assocarta identifies the electrification of processes as one of the main strategies to reduce CO₂ emissions. The use of electricity from renewable sources can represent an effective and sustainable solution to power paper industries, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, this transition requires significant investments in new technologies and adequate energy infrastructures. Despite the initial costs, electrification offers numerous long-term benefits, including greater energy efficiency and a significant reduction in emissions. In parallel, the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, can further contribute to making the paper sector more sustainable. The Assocarta study suggests that, by combining these sources with energy storage solutions, paper mills could reduce their energy dependence and optimize the use of available resources. Sustainability in packaging: Cart-One's commitment In the context of this transition toward decarbonization, Cart-One is actively committed to promoting sustainable practices in packaging production. By using recycled materials and adopting energy-efficient production processes, Cart-One contributes to reducing the sector's environmental impact. These actions not only favor the environment, but also make it possible to offer eco-friendly packaging solutions, responding to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products.  Cart-One is implementing strategies that support the transition toward a greener packaging, with the goal of reducing CO₂ emissions and optimizing the use of energy resources. Investing in sustainable practices is now a necessary step to meet market needs and to contribute to achieving European climate neutrality targets by 2050. Towards a sustainable future: opportunities and challenges The Assocarta study highlights that, to achieve complete decarbonization, a concerted effort is required among companies, institutions, and citizens. Incentives and political support will be essential to allow companies to face investment costs for the energy transition. Furthermore, the spread of a sustainability culture among businesses and environmental awareness among consumers represent crucial levers to stimulate change.   For the paper sector, adopting decarbonization strategies is not just an environmental commitment, but a true opportunity to innovate and stand out in a market increasingly oriented toward sustainability. The decarbonization of the paper sector represents a challenge and an opportunity for Italy, which can become a point of reference in Europe for sustainable production. With concrete initiatives and targeted investments in green technologies, Cart-One positions itself at the forefront of the path toward low-carbon production. The future of packaging is increasingly green, and Cart-One is ready to do its part to drive the change. Contact us for more information. See also: “Paper and cardboard recycling: an unprecedented success in 2023”