Sustainability in packaging has become, without a doubt, a key issue facing the industry. Evidence the more than 300 attendees at “Sustainability in Packaging 2008,” presented by Intertech/PIRA and sponsored by Packaging Digest and Converting last month in Orlando.

“In the first conference held in 2007, people in the industry didn't quite seem to have their arms around the concepts of sustainability and weren't quite sure whether they needed to devote a lot of resources to it,” says John Kalkowski, editorial director of Packaging Digest and Converting, and chairman of the conference. “What a difference the last year has made. Many of the people attending are in new positions as designated sustainability leaders within their companies. It appears companies... are committed to making sustainability a part of their business.”

The conference kicked off with a one-day workshop that explained carbon footprints and Life Cycle Assessments (LCA).

In plenary sessions, attendees were given the perspectives of consumers, retailers, CPGs, packagers and materials suppliers. For instance, Fabian DeGarbo, sustainable packaging program advisor for Whole Foods market, explained how his company has been able to achieve a balance between environmental demands and business drivers, using sustainability as a competitive advantage in the market.

Speakers from some companies, such as Kevin Rabinovitch of Mars North America, Scott Ballantine of Microsoft and Andrius Dapkus of Nestle US, explained the consumer perspectives they have gathered and how they are using the principals of “Reduce, Recycle and Reuse” to improve the supply chain aspects of their businesses.

Recognizing Wal-Mart's role in driving sustainability, several speakers addressed the recent implementation of the company's scorecard. Wal-Mart consultant Dr. Jane Severin dicussed the mechanics of the scorecard process and gave indications of changes being considered.

Bioplastics were hot topics as potential solutions to sustainability issues. Many speakers pointed out, though, that these biodegradable resins have some disadvantages and their use is still in its infancy.