Unwrapping Innovation: Insights on Sustainable Packaging

The FaBA Innovation Pathways Program has released ‘Unwrapping Innovation’, a bite-sized summary that captures critical conversations shaping the future of sustainable packaging for the nation’s F&B sector.

The report includes insights from an industry panel chaired at the launch of FaBA’s Sustainable Packaging Trends Report earlier this year. It brings together perspectives from leaders tackling one of the sector’s most pressing challenges: how to move beyond good intentions and into action.

Report lead author and FaBA Innovation Pathways Program Lead, Professor Janet McColl-Kennedy, emphasised the importance of these discussions:

“Critical conversations like these help industry navigate complexity and find clarity.”

From circular economy principles to practical implementation, the report explores what matters most to businesses and identifies seven recommendations to progress sustainable packaging in the sector:

• Adopt a systems-based approach: Use Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) across the value chain to avoid unintended consequences (e.g. reducing packaging impact but increasing food waste).
• Invest in local recycling and composting infrastructure: Develop facilities and choose packaging materials compatible with existing systems.
• Engage with policymakers: Collaborate early to shape clear, practical regulations and stimulate investment.
• Monitor global trends: Stay informed about evolving legislation and learn from international success stories.
• Leverage partnerships: Share R&D costs and embrace open innovation rather than strict IP protectionism.
• Explore funding and incentives: Seek state and federal grants and other financial mechanisms.
• Invest in consumer education: Provide clear messages on packaging options, disposal methods and tips to extend shelf life.

You can read the bite-sized report here

For the full picture, download the FaBA Sustainable Packaging Trends Report that was released in May.