Businesses will need to rethink their packaging processes and systems; the disruption of the traditional packaging industry will bring opportunities to those who can innovate
AS consumers, many of us are aware that packaging makes up a significant portion of the waste we produce and that, while our attitudes and behaviours play a part, the options available to us – in terms of the type of packaging and recycling options available – are also important.
In Singapore, efforts are continually being made to reduce packaging waste and to transform practices into more sustainable ones. The Singapore Environment Council (SEC) found that, in 2021, the country generated a total of 6.94 million tonnes of solid waste.
Of this, 1.82 million tonnes consisted of domestic waste, which had to be incinerated. This contributed to over 11 million kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (KgCO2e), which the SEC said is equivalent to the emissions from a dumpster truck driving around the circumference of the Earth 352 times.
“In 2021, 523,000 tonnes, or S$1.8 billion worth, of domestic packaging waste was thrown out in Singapore. As Singapore moves towards a net-zero future, packaging waste will be one of Singapore’s top waste streams of concern,” said SEC chairman Isabella Huang-Loh.
The council has sought to find ways to improve packaging systems and practices here, with a view to boosting recycling and sustainability. In collaboration with professional services firm KPMG in Singapore, it studied current consumer attitudes around packaging and packaging waste, and sought to identify the opportunities for more effective packaging waste management.
Its study, “Unlocking Opportunities for Sustainable Packaging in Singapore”, covered over 1,000 responses from people from a range of household types, occupational statuses, ages, and income levels.
Source : Business times
