The Growing Packaging Waste Crisis

The world is currently facing a packaging waste crisis as a result of the plastic manufacturing industry nearly doubling in just 20 years, from 180 million tonnes to over 400 million tonnes annually. Packaging is still the primary cause of this growing issue, filling landfills to overflowing and contaminating the oceans in alarming quantities. Surprisingly, less than 10% of the seven billion tonnes of plastic waste generated worldwide has been recycled, meaning that the remaining plastic debris will persist in the environment for millennia. In order to raise awareness of the real-world consequences of packaging waste on our beaches, we also organised a Beach Clean-Up Drive in Clifton, Karachi, with IBA students.

Packaging is becoming more and more in demand as companies grow and e-commerce thrives. Even though packaging is essential for product ease and protection, single-use items, excessive plastic consumption, and non-biodegradable waste are accelerating environmental degradation. Long-term effects like increased carbon emissions, environmental harm, and resource depletion will result from this tendency if it is not controlled. Because of this, switching to environmentally friendly packaging is more important than ever. Recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable materials are examples of eco-friendly substitutes that preserve performance and efficiency while drastically reducing environmental harm.

Key Insights from RPL’s Sustainable Packaging Workshop

To address these pressing concerns, Roshan Packages Limited (RPL) launched Packaging 101: Sustainability & Innovation, a series of workshops intended to educate professionals, companies, and students about the implications of packaging waste and the need for sustainable alternatives. These classes provide a comprehensive understanding of packaging’s role in waste management, pollution, and climate change. They are taught by our Sustainability Marketing Manager, Rija Tayyab, and are held at esteemed colleges and corporate offices.

In addition to theoretical discussions, participants examine the relationship between waste management and packaging design and the three pillars of sustainability: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Participants concretely understand sustainable packaging through hands-on activities like painting boxes to promote creative reuse, balancing objects on paper to gauge material strength, and converting paper into flute structures to test endurance. Participants can examine and distinguish between recyclable and non-recyclable materials through a hands-on demonstration of RPL’s environmentally friendly packaging options.

Practical Sustainability in Packaging

We place strong focus on the safety of materials used to package food and beverages. The program educates participants on the dangers of BPA plastics, toxic coatings, and uncertified recycled materials. Food-grade packaging meets basic safety requirements and ensures that no hazardous materials will contaminate food. Companies that deal with consumables need to understand these key differences because they impact customer health and sustainability. These interactive discussions and expert-led Q&A sessions allow participants to have meaningful conversations about responsible packaging solutions.

RPL’s Commitment to Sustainability

As a pioneer in eco-friendly packaging, RPL actively reduces its environmental impact by implementing several green initiatives. We recycle all paper waste, use solar power and Roshan Ehad to cut carbon emissions by over 130 MT annually, and create boxes made entirely of recycled materials. Additionally, we have set the standard for water-based and recycled ink occasion packaging, promoting eco-friendly alternatives without compromising on quality. Our POS perforated cartons are another example of our commitment to waste reduction and responsible packaging.

Roshan Packages Limited continues to be a local business that supports global sustainability initiatives by enforcing stringent guidelines for environmentally friendly operations. We also recognise the importance of sustainable packaging for brands as more businesses prioritise the environment and search for packaging options that align with their values. By implementing these sustainability strategies, RPL continues to set the standard for eco-friendly packaging. By encouraging the industry’s widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices, we hope to persuade businesses to transition to more environmentally friendly packaging options.

Outcomes of the Workshop

The workshop has successfully taught professionals and students about sustainable packaging and responsible waste management. Through interactive exercises, participants gained knowledge of key sustainability concepts, looked into environmentally friendly alternatives, and gained hands-on experience with recyclable materials.

To explore safe and sustainable packaging options, reach out to Roshan Packages Limited.