Packaging is responsible for 40% of plastic consumption and for a large proportion of cardboard consumption. However, while consumer goods packaging has been the focus of attention in recent years and various projects are underway to optimize it, there is a lack of corresponding knowledge about commercial and industrial packaging (G&I packaging). To date, there have been no comprehensive statistics on the volume flows or quantities used for all G&I packaging. There was also no overview of the materials used. It was therefore unclear what potential improved circularity would have and what measures would promote it.
In this project, gaps in knowledge about I&G packaging were addressed. To this end, a material flow analysis was carried out covering all life cycle phases of the packaging. The focus was on all G&I packaging used in Switzerland made of paper, cardboard, glass, metal, plastic and wood. In addition to recording the quantity structure, initial qualitative estimates of ecological potential were made.
You can view the final report here - enjoy reading it!