11 Feb. 2025: The Alliance has been established to facilitate representation in the development of pEPR as the UK moves to the producer pays model, ensuring a level playing field between materials.
The new group features firms from across the fibre-based packaging value chain, including raw material suppliers, convertors, distributors, retailers and other stakeholders.
Founding members include Huhtamaki, Seda, Benders Paper Cups, Colpac, Sonoco, ProAmpac, Coveris, Sabert, Graphic Packaging, AVA – The Vending and Automated Retail Association and ECMA – The European Carton Makers Association.
The Alliance co-chairs are Neil Whittall, head of sustainability, Huhtamaki Fiber Foodservice EAO, Paul Synott, managing director, SEDA UK, and Talia Goldman, ESG director, Colpac.
The Alliance launches at a critical time for the development of waste and recycling policy in the UK, with the introduction of Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) this year and the ongoing implementation of Simpler Recycling, which will standardise business and household recycling collection across England.
Whittall said: “As fibre-based packaging options become more common as a renewably sourced and low carbon alternative to fossil-based products, it is essential that as much fibre-based packaging material as possible is collected, sorted and recycled. Our businesses are committed to working closely with the UK Government and stakeholders to ensure that the detailed implementation of waste and recycling policies supports this outcome.”
Paul Vanston, chief executive of the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN), said: “Fibre-based packaging is part of daily life in homes and businesses across the UK, supporting the country’s economic growth. I’m delighted the new Alliance has been set-up, and INCPEN will work constructively with the Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging as we do across the essential UK materials sectors.”
Paul Sanderson, chief executive, The Recycling Association, said: “I look forward to developing a partnership with the Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging to ensure that fibre and fibre-based packaging is designed to be recyclable while also protecting the product within it. Working across the value chain is essential as we look to develop the circular economy, and the Alliance will be a vital part of that.”