In a strategic move to fortify the packaging landscape in Australia and New Zealand, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) and the Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) have officially established a Memorandum of Understanding. This collaborative agreement aims to synchronize sustainable packaging practices across the industry.

The partnership entails the formation of a strategic alliance, with the objective of enhancing packaging and sustainability knowledge in the Australia and New Zealand region. The collaboration will offer substantiation for sustainability professionals regarding their packaging and sustainability expertise. The approach involves AIP facilitating and delivering APCO-focused educational courses set to launch in 2024. These courses focus on elevating skill levels and recognizing knowledge in APCO and packaging sustainability, including topics such as the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) Program.

Chris Foley, CEO of APCO, emphasized the significance of this strategic partnership, stating, "This is a pivotal moment for APCO, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing capability in Australia’s packaging system for a transition to a circular economy. Together, we aspire to boost industry knowledge, empower our members and the broader industry, and foster positive change toward a more environmentally conscious future."

Chloe Rose, Head of Communications and Engagement at APCO, stressed the importance of sustainability professionals having evidence of their expertise in packaging recyclability. She noted that this step is crucial for organizations seeking guidance on identifying individuals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience in assessing recycled content in packaging.

Nerida Kelton FAIP, Executive Director of AIP, expressed excitement about the transformative impact of this strengthened partnership on the packaging industry. With a 60-year history of serving the industry, the agreement signifies a commitment to education and a pivotal step toward a more sustainable circular economy for Australasian packaging. The collaboration aims to enhance packaging knowledge and training, improving core technical competencies across the industry and setting new standards for designing better packaging in the region.

The formalization of this partnership, building on the history of collaboration between APCO and AIP, is expected to contribute to a more aligned industry and promote the principles of a circular economy for packaging.