Companies lean into paper packaging innovations amid scrutiny of plastic

By April Reese
Packaging Dive
January 27, 2025
Category: Wood, Paper & Green Building
Region: United States

Regulatory requirements and consumer demand are pushing more companies to switch from plastic to paper for everything from packing peanuts to beverage bottles. But some groups question whether paper is truly a better alternative and how much it helps companies meet their sustainability commitments. Mounting evidence of plastic’s potentially adverse effects on the environment and public health are gaining attention. For example, about 98% of single-use plastic products are made from fossil fuel feedstock, and greenhouse gas emissions from the production, use and disposal of these plastics are expected to rise to 19% of the global carbon budget by 2040, according to the United Nations Environment Program. In response to these growing concerns, regulators at every level of government have adopted new policies.

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