Embracing transformation: our path forward
Insights to the keynote of Daniel Winkler
In an era marked by growing concerns over sustainability and environmental impact, businesses are increasingly tasked with reevaluating their practices. Daniel Winkler, Member of the Executive Board of Constantia Flexibles, acknowledges the importance of this dialogue. His keynote at the Sustainability in Packaging US event in Chicago on March 7 shed light on the industry's journey towards sustainability. By embracing a comprehensive life cycle perspective, we are not just adapting to the future; we are actively working to shape it with our Ecolutions product range.
Why a life cycle perspective is essential
Understanding the full scope of a product's environmental impact from cradle to grave is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. This perspective is key to identifying more sustainable solutions in the face of evolving demands for packaging materials. Daniel Winkler emphasizes that adopting a life cycle perspective reveals our environmental footprint, guiding us toward more sustainable and effective packaging options.
Constantia Flexibles' 360-degree approach
At the heart of our 360-degree approach is our in-house Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) model, a tool developed in 2015 and successfully peer-reviewed according to ISO 14040/44 standards. This comprehensive Meta LCA-Model allows us to flexibly evaluate any combination of production processes, raw material inputs, waste handling possibilities, and country-specific settings. By showcasing it, we demonstrate how requirements for sustainability and functionality can be met in harmony.
Embracing sustainability: our more sustainable product portfolio
We offer a diverse range of more sustainable packaging solutions that cater to many applications without compromising on performance. We have you covered, from plastic-based packaging like our renowned EcoLam and EcoVer to paper-based alternatives such as EcoPaper and aluminum-based solutions.
Plastic-based packaging has long been a staple in various industries due to its versatility and reliability. Our Polymer-based packaging, exemplified by EcoLam and EcoVer, ensures tight seals with high barriers, making them ideal for various applications. From preserving the freshness of vegetables to safeguarding confectionary delights like chocolates, biscuits, and sweet snacks, our plastic-based solutions are trusted by brands worldwide and have been awarded several prizes. They also find utility in packaging pasta, cereals, salty snacks, baby food, beverages, dairy products, processed foods, and even medical and pharmaceutical products.
For those seeking sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic, our EcoPaper range offers a viable solution. Whether it's lidding for containers, wrappers for butter, or packaging for frozen foods and beverages, EcoPaper delivers on both functionality and environmental consciousness. Currently undergoing rigorous testing for various other applications, EcoPaper continues to expand its reach, promising even more sustainable options in the near future.
Additionally, we recognize the indispensable role of aluminum-based packaging, especially in applications where the highest barrier protection and thermal stability are paramount. Our aluminum packaging solutions range from lidding for containers to tray-lid combinations for military rations with extended shelf-life requirements, pharmaceutical packaging, pet food containers, confectionary wrappers, and coffee capsules. With their superior barrier properties and foldability, our aluminum-based solutions offer outstanding performance while upholding our commitment to sustainability.
We design for recycling and continuously innovate our packaging solutions. That is why we explore alternatives like aluminum packaging, aiming to reduce material usage through downgauging while maintaining product integrity. Additionally, we incorporate recycled content, such as up to 90% in aluminum packaging, which meets food contact standards, further enhancing our sustainability efforts.
Expanding horizons: Sustainable solutions across North America
Our company has a presence in North America, offering a range of products including pet food, dairy items, and coffee packaging. We prioritize sustainability and transparency, welcoming discussions on products and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). In the US, our Blythewood, South Carolina plant serves consumer and pharmaceutical clients, equipped with advanced production capabilities. In Mexico, our Aluprint facility in San Luis Potosi is the largest converting site in the country, providing flexible packaging solutions across various markets. We are dedicated to meeting customer needs while upholding high standards of quality and environmental responsibility in our operations.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, our message is clear: embracing transformation through a comprehensive life cycle perspective is not just key to winning the future—it's essential for ensuring a more sustainable and prosperous world for generations to come. We believe in providing solutions that not only meet the needs of our customers but also contribute positively to the environment. Through our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a circular economy, we demonstrate that environmental responsibility and business success go hand in hand.
