Research shows flexible packaging as sustainable alternative to rigid

Zip-Pak, a producer of resealable packaging technology, has released its latest research findings on the relationship between flexible packaging and sustainability. The life cycle inventory (LCI), conducted by Franklin Associates, an independent third party research firm, demonstrates the smaller environmental footprint of flexible resealable packaging as compared to rigid alternatives.

The study included eight packaging systems consisting of six deli meat packages and two breakfast cereal packages. The packages included both flexible packaging formats with resealable closures as well as rigid packaging formats. Key findings of the LCI include that products packaged in flexible pouches with resealable closures had lower energy consumption, solid waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions than the rigid systems included in the analysis. Further, although transportation energy accounted for less than 17 percent of total energy for all systems, the results show that transportation energy requirements for the reusable rigid containers are higher than those for the flexible packaging systems.

The conclusion of the study was that resealable flexible packaging is a more sustainable option when compared to rigid packaging.  This conclusion is bolstered by the superior product-to-package ratio, lower energy footprint, lower solid waste footprint and lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life-cycle of resealable flexible packages.

‘Inspired by the packaging industry’s commitment to a greener future, Zip-Pak is likewise dedicated to the issue of sustainability and is mindful of its own environmental footprint,’ said Bob Hogan, director of international sales and marketing. ‘Through this research, Zip-Pak has become a more educated resource in sustainability so we may help our customers reduce their own environmental footprint. The conclusions of the Franklin Associates study further encourage Zip-Pak to aggressively pursue future developments to help reduce the environmental footprint of packaging, including packaging that incorporates next generation materials, films and closures.’