UK manufacturers are under pressure to reduce plastic packaging as studies reveal that over half of the current plastic use could be replaced with sustainable alternatives.
UK manufacturers are facing mounting pressure to reduce plastic use in their food packaging. A recent study by DS Smith reveals that 51% of plastic packaging could be replaced with sustainable alternatives, which amounts to nearly 30 billion pieces of plastic waste annually. However, many companies are struggling with the transition due to the high costs of eco-friendly materials and concerns over consumer resistance. Despite widespread acknowledgment of the need to reduce plastic waste, manufacturers are caught between environmental responsibility and economic challenges.
One of the primary barriers to making the switch is cost, with 40% of surveyed companies citing the higher expense of sustainable materials as a major hurdle. Additionally, 72% of manufacturers believe their customers are unwilling to pay more for sustainably packaged products. This issue is compounded by concerns about compromising product freshness, particularly in categories like bread, cereals, and dairy, where plastic packaging extends shelf life and offers durability.
While some companies have set ambitious plastic reduction goals, progress has been slow. A quarter of businesses admit they are off track with their targets, many of which are set for 2026. This has prompted calls for stronger government intervention to support innovation and create a level playing field that encourages a shift away from plastic. Industry leaders like DS Smith are advocating for phasing out certain plastics to help drive change.
The UK is not alone in this challenge, with countries like Spain, Italy, and Germany also grappling with high levels of plastic packaging. As the global push towards sustainability intensifies, UK manufacturers must navigate the technical and economic hurdles to meet growing demands for greener packaging solutions. The upcoming Circular Economy Strategy and Zero Waste Roadmap from the UK government are expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating this transition.
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