Packaging for Today and Tomorrow....

Definition of Sustainability

A sustainable product is one which… “…meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs…”
World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) 1987
“Our Common Future“

Requirements of Sustainability

The practical application of sustainability requires a system where Social, Economic and Environmental needs can be met on an on-going bases:

• The Rights and Future needs of People are not compromised.


• The process is Commercially Viable.


• Materials are Replenishable and Waste Minimised.

Environmental Requirements

• Minimum loss of resources.


• Minimum build up of waste.


• Maintaining of ecosystems.

Achieving Environmental Sustainability

RAP seeks to offer products to our customers which use the maximum replenishable and minimum non-replenishable resources:

• Board from Managed Forests.


• Plastics from crop based sources.


• Minimum use of oil based materials.

Maintaining Environmental Sustainability

Wherever possible, RAP offers products for which effects on the environment can be minimised by:

• Recycling.


• Biodegradability/Composting (and degradability).


• Energy recovery by combustion.

Recycling

Recycling reduces the impact of packaging on the environment by re-using material so that the amount of new material which it is required to use (and so sustain) is reduced.
RAP products can be:

• Made from recycled material.


• Recyclable.

Composting

Composting enables biodegradable and degradable materials to be converted to a useful product instead of going to land fill.
RAP encourages composting by offering compostable options:

• “Chlorine Free” Carton board.


• Barrier Coated board in place of traditional plastic laminates.

Energy Recovery

Burning of waste for energy in place of fossil fuels, still produces greenhouse emissions but reduces the burden on the environment by:

• Replacing fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal) which would otherwise be used.


• Reducing land fill and its associated environmental impact.


• All RAP packaging is suitable for energy recovery by incineration.