From paper bottles to compost laws — the world is rethinking packaging, and here’s how:
1. California Grants Extension on Compostability Law
CalRecycle has extended the deadline for Law AB 1201 — which bans compostable products unless certified under the National Organic Program — from 1st January 2026 to 30th June 2027. This gives businesses more time and clarity to adapt to sustainable packaging norms.
2. Maryland Moves Toward EPR
Maryland has proposed a new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law. It aims to charge packaging fees that encourage companies to use recyclable, compostable, or reusable materials — a step forward for sustainable innovation.
3. Washington Steps Up Waste Reform
From 1st January 2026, packaging producers in Washington must join a Producer Responsibility Organization. By 1st October 2026, the state will release a comprehensive list of recyclable and compostable materials — simplifying waste management for all.
4. Guatemala’s Local Ban on Single-Use Plastics
While a national-level ban on SUPs initially faced pushback, Guatemala is now advancing through local governments. Progress is also being made on waste separation policies and broader environmental reforms.
5. Amcor and Metsä Create Molded Fiber Packs
This collaboration between packaging giants has resulted in molded fiber packaging with lid and liner — paving the way for sturdy, plastic-free alternatives in food and retail.
6. Lieferando Pilots Plant-Based Coated Boxes
Germany-based food delivery platform Lieferando is testing plant-derived Morro coatings (developed by UK startup Xampla) to replace plastic linings in takeaway packaging.
7. Danimer Joins Teknor Apex
Bioplastics leader Danimer Scientific has been acquired by Teknor Apex, merging sustainable materials innovation with industrial-scale manufacturing capabilities.
8. SUPA’s All-Paper Handwash Bottle
UK brand SUPA has developed the world’s first fully paper-based handwash bottle, offering a plastic-free solution for personal care.
9. Bamboo Trays for Mushrooms in Denver
South Mill Champs, in partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market, has launched eco-friendly bamboo tills for mushroom packaging — designed for minimal waste and maximum freshness.
10. Verde Bioresins Wraps Bakes Eco-Style
Verde Bioresins now offers compostable packaging for gluten-free baked goods using PolyEarthylene resins — safe for food, friendly for the planet.
11. Sappi and Kapag’s 100% Paper Packaging
These two paper manufacturers have developed a mono-material, fully recyclable paper-based packaging solution designed for food products.
12. TIPA Joins the U.S. Plastics Pact
Compostable packaging innovator TIPA has become part of the U.S. Plastics Pact, a consortium dedicated to building a circular economy for plastic.
13. KIND Wraps Its Bars in Paper
Snack company KIND has unveiled paper-based wrappers to replace traditional plastic, making its packaging fully recyclable and more eco-conscious.
14. SWM Showcases Innovation in Brazil
SWM International presented new packaging concepts at the ABRE Packaging and Consumption Congress in Brazil, showcasing global leadership in sustainable packaging.
15. SIG and Camelina Oil Launch Eco Pouch
Camelina oil is now available in SIG’s lightweight CloverCap pouches — a smarter, more sustainable alternative to conventional plastic bottles.
16. Mondi Unveils High-Barrier Paper Bags
Global packaging leader Mondi has introduced recyclable paper bags with high barrier protection — offering a paper-based replacement to multilayer plastic packaging.
17. Voith Cuts Carbon with Recycled Felts
Voith has launched a closed recycling loop for its Infinity press felts, reducing carbon emissions by up to 31 percent — a major leap for sustainable papermaking operations.
18. Suzano and Kimberly-Clark Join Forces
Brazil’s Suzano and the U.S.-based Kimberly-Clark have announced a $3.4 billion joint venture focused on sustainable hygiene and paper products.
From policy shifts to product makeovers, the world is steadily moving toward responsible packaging — and Pakka is tuned in, learning, and leading with purpose.
