What's Happening?
Pamela Gill-Alabaster, a packaging industry expert and former Chief Sustainability Officer at Kenvue, discusses the increasing interest in sustainable packaging made in North America. She notes that there
is a growing demand for mono-material formats and higher post-consumer recycled (PCR) inclusion rates. This trend is driven by the expansion of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws across U.S. states and Canada, which prioritize packaging that is recyclable and compatible with domestic waste recovery infrastructure. Brands are seeking greater transparency and accountability across the packaging value chain, with North American production providing enhanced traceability and efficient audit processes. The shift towards regional production is seen as part of risk management and regulatory readiness strategies.
Why It's Important?
The growth in 'Made in NA Packaging' reflects broader sustainability trends impacting the packaging industry. As EPR laws expand, brands are increasingly required to meet recycled content mandates and fee modulation under these frameworks. This has led to a demand for packaging that is not only sustainable but also locally produced, allowing for better coordination between suppliers and brands. The emphasis on regional production supports risk management and regulatory compliance, which are becoming more critical as corporate sustainability commitments become financially material. This shift could lead to significant changes in the supply chain, with more domestic recycling partnerships and a focus on sustainable materials.
What's Next?
As sustainability commitments continue to grow, the demand for North American-produced sustainable packaging is expected to increase. Brands will likely continue to prioritize packaging that aligns with EPR fee modulation through lightweighting and higher recycled content. The focus on regional production may lead to further expansion of domestic recycling partnerships and innovations in sustainable materials. Companies will need to adapt to these changes by enhancing their traceability and accountability measures across the packaging value chain.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift towards 'Made in NA Packaging' has deeper implications for the packaging industry. It highlights the increasing importance of sustainability in corporate strategy and the need for brands to integrate these practices into their operations. The emphasis on regional production also reflects a broader trend towards local sourcing and manufacturing, which can reduce environmental impact and support local economies. As sustainability becomes a key driver of business decisions, companies will need to balance these commitments with financial and operational considerations.
