PakTech’s latest report examines the divide between perception and reality in sustainable plastic packaging, involving 500 European packaging professionals and considering how plastic fits within their operational, procurement, sustainability, and marketing strategies and identifying barriers to progress. The company details its findings in this edition of the Spotlight.
Packaging decision-makers today face a familiar balancing act – meeting ambitious sustainability targets while keeping costs under control and ensuring products arrive safely from factory to consumer. However, despite best intentions, progress toward truly sustainable packaging is often hindered by long-standing misconceptions that prevent brands from making decisions aligned with both environmental and business goals.
A striking example lies in the perception of recycled plastics, with many packaging professionals significantly underestimating their potential. Industry research shows that many (32%) believe HDPE can only be recycled 2-5 times before degrading. However, studies demonstrate that HDPE can be recycled up to 10 times while maintaining its processability and mechanical properties – or virtually indefinitely, with the addition of new materials.
In a market where 45% of consumers consider environmental impact important, yet still expect durability and performance, could something fundamental be missing from the sustainability conversation?
PakTech’s latest report addresses this gap by examining the divide between perception and reality in sustainable plastic packaging. Drawing on proprietary research with 500 European packaging professionals across the UK, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, the report uncovers real-world challenges in the packaging industry. It assesses how plastic fits within their operational, procurement, sustainability, and marketing strategies and identifies the barriers that continue to stand in the way of progress.
The report also explores the widespread myths surrounding recycled materials and presents data-driven insights that highlight how circular economy principles can become practical realities for packaging teams.
Inside the report:
- Why recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) has a crucial role in sustainable packaging, helping brands across Europe meet environmental goals without compromise
- What European industry professionals really think about plastic use
- How consumer expectations impact brand decisions on packaging materials
- The five most common myths about plastic – and the facts that debunk them
- Practical strategies to futureproof packaging solutions with rHDPE multi-packing handles
Read the full report here.
About PakTech
PakTech is a global designer and manufacturer of sustainable secondary packaging solutions, specialising in injection-moulded multipack handles made from 100% recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE). The company has pioneered the use of reclaimed HDPE plastic to produce fully recyclable handles and automated application equipment for the food, beverage and consumer goods industries.
Since 1991, PakTech has combined extensive materials science expertise with proven real-world performance, delivering solutions that have diverted plastic waste from landfills while maintaining the strength and reliability that demanding supply chains require. For over 30 years, PakTech has served global CPG brands and emerging markets with innovative packaging solutions.
Headquartered in Eugene, Oregon, USA, the company also operates manufacturing and warehouse facilities in Australia and a distribution warehouse in the Netherlands to support its international reach. In Europe, PakTech currently services customers in 13 countries, reinforcing its commitment to reliable global coverage and responsive, region-specific support. Learn more at paktech-opi.com
This content was sponsored by PakTech.
