Elevating Sustainability Through Smart Packaging Choices

Sustainability has become a critical focus for foodservice providers in today's business landscape. A recent McKinsey survey reveals that 83% of C-suite leaders believe environmental, social, and governance programs will contribute more shareholder value in the near future. However, achieving meaningful sustainability outcomes requires looking beyond internal operations.

With approximately 80% of most companies' greenhouse gas emissions originating from their value chain, partnering with the right suppliers is crucial. One area where businesses can make a significant impact is through their food packaging decisions.

Here are three strategies to enhance your sustainability efforts:

  • Prioritize Transparency. Collaborate with suppliers who are committed to helping you reach your sustainability goals. Look for partners who use life cycle assessment tools to evaluate the environmental impact of packaging choices. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making by providing insights into greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel usage, and water consumption associated with different packaging options.
  • Choose Diverse, Customizable Solutions. Selecting suitable packaging is a nuanced process influenced by various factors, including product performance, disposal options, cost, and regulatory compliance. Seek suppliers offering a diverse range of sustainable options that can be tailored to your specific needs. A fit-for-use analysis can help determine the most appropriate packaging materials and styles based on your products and operational requirements.
  • Focus on Long-term Goals. To address climate change effectively, businesses need to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Partner with suppliers who are committed to making immediate improvements while also planning for long-term sustainability advancements. Look for those who prioritize transparency, offer innovative solutions, and can help you set concrete plans for continuous improvement.

By aligning with the right packaging partners, foodservice providers can make significant strides in their sustainability journey. These partnerships not only help meet current consumer demands and regulatory requirements but also contribute to building a more sustainable future for the industry as a whole.