Tetra Pak has been awarded the Resource Efficiency Award at the 2024 Sustainable Packaging News Awards for its pioneering paper-based barrier material. This breakthrough innovation, the first in the carton packaging industry, reduces the carbon footprint of aseptic food packaging by up to one-third without compromising food safety or performance. The achievement has been validated by the Carbon Trust, reflecting the company’s commitment to developing low-carbon, renewable solutions in response to global sustainability demands.
The paper-based barrier replaces the traditional aluminium foil layer, increasing the paperboard content in Tetra Pak’s cartons from 70% to approximately 80%. When combined with plant-based polymers, this innovation boosts the renewable content of aseptic cartons to 90%, marking a significant step toward reducing reliance on non-renewable materials. Tetra Pak’s efforts underscore the potential for cutting-edge sustainable materials to transform food systems and packaging practices.
Accepting the award, Marco Marchetti, Tetra Pak’s Vice President of Packaging Materials, highlighted the company’s dedication to customer-driven innovation. Tetra Pak described the recognition as a testament to its mission to enhance renewability, recyclability, and carbon reduction while ensuring food safety. The company continues to collaborate with partners worldwide to lead the transition to low-carbon packaging solutions that benefit both consumers and the environment.
