Madhumitha Jaganmohan
Research expert covering climate and environmental sustainability
Get in touch with us nowPlastic packaging types
The increased global demand for plastic in recent decades has seen it become one of the main materials used within the packaging industry, replacing traditional materials like paper and cardboard, metal, and glass across many products. Flexible plastic packaging alone contributed approximately 210.25 billion U.S. dollars to the of global packaging industry in 2022, while rigid plastics contributed 173.5 billion U.S. dollars. Flexible packaging is one of the fastest growing plastic packaging trends as it is an efficient and cost-effective method of maintaining, transporting, and packaging a variety of commodities. It is also highly customizable, making it an ideal packaging solution.Plastic packaging is produced from various polymer types, with each having characteristics for specific applications. For example, high density polyethylene (HDPE) is commonly used to make containers for bleach and other cleaning supplies due its strength and chemical resistance, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is primarily used to make beverage bottles as it is clear, strong, and has high gas barrier properties.
What is the future of plastic packaging?
Although all many types of plastic are technically recyclable, only a small amount gets recycled globally due to a variety of different barriers. As a result, there has been increased consumer skepticism of many plastic products due to the environmental impact plastic waste has on the planet, with packaging facing considerable scrutiny. Growing plastic pollution has become an urgent environmental crisis, with global governments introducing bans and taxes on products to reduce waste. While plastic packaging is unlikely to be replaced in the near future, traditional packaging materials could potentially displace plastics in the long-term if recycling rates remain low.The plastic packaging industry must adapt to these challenges and deliver circular economy solutions by introducing more sustainable options. The global sustainable plastic packaging market is expected to grow to almost 143.7 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, with bioplastics set to shape the market as more companies adopt these technologies. Many consumer brands are also targeting a reduction in virgin plastic use in their packaging products while increasing the share of post-consumer recycled content.
