As the packaging industry explores sustainable alternatives, paper-based packaging for drinks bottles has raised several questions. Companies like Frugalpac predict that up to 25% of wine and spirit bottles could switch from glass to paper in the next decade. While paper packaging offers a lower carbon footprint than glass or plastic, concerns persist regarding its recyclability, durability, and overall environmental impact.

Carlsberg and Absolut have initiated trials for paper bottles, but challenges remain, including the use of plastic liners in many designs. While some innovations reduce carbon emissions, experts like Lux Research note that paper recycling is not as straightforward as it seems, requiring significant resources such as water and chemicals.

Another issue is whether paper-based packaging merely shifts the environmental burden from one material to another, maintaining a linear economy's inherent problems. The industry is actively seeking improvements, but widespread adoption faces obstacles, especially in high-performance requirements for drinks packaging.