Why is Traceability so important in Packaging?

In the realm of sustainable packaging, "Chain of Custody" (CoC) might sound like a technicality, but its implications for both businesses and forests are huge. It goes beyond checking boxes and satisfying regulations. CoC certification is about unlocking a win-win scenario where environmental responsibility translates to tangible business benefits and promotes sustainable forest management. PEFC certification provides documented and verified evidence of your organization’s sustainability vision, offering transparency, traceability, and accountability.

Companies using CoC certification can, in a broader sense, signal their support for sustainable development through their procurement practices, leading an industry-wide shift towards sustainability. As consumer demand trends towards sustainable packaging and as government bodies enforce regulations that promote sustainability, brand owners are increasingly looking for suppliers and partners that can prove that their products are sustainably sourced. Singled out for its fleeting lifespan, packaging faces growing scrutiny making choice of materials more important than ever for brands.

With only 9 % of global forests currently certified, it is imperative that the shift away from plastics does not endanger the precious natural resource that is our forests. Initiatives such as PEFC’s sustainable forest management certification and CoC certification send a clear signal that industry can contribute to the economy while promoting practices that provide environmental and social benefits.

For producers and converters, CoC certification offers a powerful business tool – traceability. This can lead to enhanced supply chain access by passing on the claim and get you one step closer to becoming preferred suppliers to brands higher up the supply chain and closer to the final consumer. By demonstrating a transparent and traceable supply chain, you can build trust with stakeholders.