Unpacking Fibre-Based Packaging

Packaging is an essential part of the fast-moving consumer goods sector, as it provides necessary protection to products and makes efficient distribution, in-store display and communication possible. While plastics are the most common materials used in packaging worldwide, there is a growing need to adopt more sustainable packaging to combat the growing plastic pollution problem.

Intrinsically biodegradable and posing no long-term environmental threat, FBPs (Fibre-Based Packaging) tap into renewable resources when responsibly sourced from sustainably managed forests, setting them apart from their plastic counterparts. Responsibly sourcing means ensuring the fibre coming from carefully managed forests that maintain their biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, vitality and ecological, economic and social functions.

PEFC's Chain of Custody (CoC) certification offers a solution  to connect ethical sourcing and consumer confidence – the verifiable traceability of source material. It allows producers to pass on the claim and build trust with buyers further along the supply chain. Independent audits by certification companies guarantee adherence to international and national standards, empowering brands to give consumers the assurance they crave. 

National forest certification systems seeking PEFC endorsement must undergo a robust multi-stakeholder process, ensuring forest owners globally can showcase their sustainable management practices. With 71% of certified forests globally under its standard, global recognition by PEFC fosters trust and assurance for consumers about the sustainability of products bearing their logo. In the Nordic region most of the certified forests are PEFC endorsed.

This opens doors to new markets and opportunities for sustainable packaging producers and retailers providing them with a competitive edge in a world increasingly focused on ethical sourcing. By choosing PEFC-certified options, brand owners become active promoters of sustainable forestry.

With the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, more producers of fibre-based packaging are stepping up to ensure sustainability promises are carried through from the source. This means they can pass on the assurance that their products are truly sustainable and stand up to the growing customer scrutiny, making them a supplier of choice for retailers that want to verify sustainable packaging material.