An unprecedented 4evergreen alliance in Europe

The aim of the alliance is to boost the contribution of fibre-based packaging in a circular and sustainable economy that minimises climate and environmental impact. Together, the alliance is:  

• increasing awareness about the benefits of fibre-based packaging materials 
• increasing the overall recycling rates of fibre-based packaging materials 
• producing guidelines and tools to enhance recyclability through packaging design,  collection and sorting 

The alliance is a timely response to support the EU’s Single Use Plastics Directive, designed to accelerate development of alternative packaging and enable consumers to make more climate-friendly choices. The work of the alliance is also championing change towards the aim of the EU Green Deal: climate neutrality by 2050. 

The alliance was ultimately born in response to consumer demands and concerns. Thomas Kratochwill, Vice President for Packaging and Specialities at Sappi explains:

“People want to make choices that don’t harm the environment. They want sustainable packaging they can feel good about. The innovative fibre-based products that companies like Sappi produce offer great alternatives to conventional, fossil-based materials. And we’re just getting started.”  

The alliance brings together actors from across the packaging value chain: from fellow pulp and paper manufacturers, converters and brand owners. “Together, we can address persistent and complex topics”, said Sarah Price, Sustainability manager at Sappi Europe and a Co-lead in 4evergreen´s Information Workstream.

“I’m convinced we can advance beyond the current 86% recycling rate for fibre-based packaging in Europe, achieving the circularity we all seek in our sector.” 

Discover the Sappi innovations powering a more circular economy and sustainable world. Learn more about the 4EverGreen Alliance and Cepi, the European association representing the paper industry.