// Q & A value in recognising that signatories to the Covenant are also members of an association. This is an opportunity for us to work more closely with our members, recognising that different sectors have different needs, so tailored support will add greater value. We can also recognise and share leading practice within sectors.
IW: And what will a relaunched“ enhanced” Covenant look like? Hyde: It will give clearer focus and certainty to businesses, while embedding positive environmental outcomes in our DNA. It will support the idea that embracing sustainable packaging is a sound business decision.
IW: What are the greatest challenges and opportunities in the market for your signatories and how should they manage these challenges? Hyde: Influencing the supply chain to change and how to make change that is sustainable for the business, and meeting societal expectations.
Like all challenges, they can be overcome with knowledge, creativity, courage and resolve. Opportunities flow as a result of meeting challenges head-on.
IW: How will the APC demonstrate leadership in recycling and product stewardship? Hyde: The easiest way is to promote good ideas! The APC Awards will be held on August 24 and this is where the best of the best will be profiled, including for the first time, the 2016 Outstanding Achievement Awards- with one grand winner and three category winners. Our awards have been expanded to include panel conversations with high performing signatories, and through events such as this, we will support and promote best practice and collaboration.
IW: What are some of the packaging improvements that your signatories are working on? Hyde: Our signatories are working on numerous packaging improvements – from the design phase right through to end-of-life.
One example is Nutrimetics Australia Pty Ltd. Nutrimetics decided to review its plastic jars category using the APC’ s Sustainable Packaging Guidelines. Through the review, opportunities were identified to reduce the jar size and weight and to improve recyclability across
APC CEO Trish Hyde.
Having been out meeting industry, government and community representatives, I am constantly reminded of the value of the work of the Covenant. It’ s a positive and optimistic environment.
the range. Nutrimetics has now redesigned the packaging of five of its most prominent products, achieving a 40 % reduction in the packaging without compromising integrity or product weight. A new material was selected for the outer of the jars, and the inner and outer jars were made separable, to further increase recyclability and to eliminate the need for a gluing process. A simpler cap design also reduced tooling costs at the manufacture level. Sharing the findings with global partners led to the new tubs being used in the US and Brazil. Beyond the consumer, supply chain and environmental benefits, Nutrimetics Australia achieved cost savings, which will be re-invested into further projects. iw
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Weekly news updates at www. BEN-global. com / waste AUGUST 2016 INSIDEWASTE 37