Sustainability continues to be a top purchasing driver among consumers. A recent global survey conducted by Nielsen found over 50 percent of consumers consider sustainability factors when purchasing a product. Furthermore, 66 percent of global respondents are even willing to pay more for these products. The latest Global Packaging Trends Report from PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, also identifies environmental impact as a key trend driving innovation in primary packaging. Flexible plastic cuts waste, adds value
According to the Flexible Packaging Association, flexible plastic requires less energy to manufacture than other types of packaging. Furthermore, it provides resealable features which keep food products fresh longer. This resealability helps reduce food waste, which translates into a business, environmental and social benefit. However, while manufacturers benefit from minimizing material use, flexible packaging is less commonly recycled.