Elopak's Transition to Low-Carbon Aluminium for Carton Manufacturing
Global packaging supplier Elopak has initiated the use of low-carbon aluminium produced with renewable electricity for its European carton manufacturing. This move is part of the company's broader strategy to reduce the environmental impact of its packaging products. The new aluminium is being integrated into Elopak's standard ambient cartons at production facilities in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Ukraine.
The switch to low-carbon aluminium has resulted in an immediate 8% reduction in the carbon footprint of Elopak's standard aluminium-based ambient cartons. According to cradle-to-gate calculations, the carbon footprint of a standard aseptic Pure-Pak carton has been lowered from 53g CO₂e to 49g CO₂e per carton.
Emilie Olderskog, Elopak's global head of sustainability, stated that the use of aluminium produced with renewable electricity is a significant step in reducing the climate impact of their packaging materials. Aluminium is a critical component in ambient carton packaging due to its ability to provide an effective barrier against light and oxygen, which helps extend product shelf life and minimize food waste.
In addition to its standard cartons, Elopak offers the Pure-Pak eSense, an aluminium-free aseptic carton designed for ambient distribution. This solution aims to support further emissions reductions and enhance recycling performance.
Elopak collaborates exclusively with members of the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative, which advocates for responsible aluminium sourcing and environmental performance standards. The company is also investing in material innovation and design improvements to increase the recyclability of its cartons.
Operating in over 70 countries, Elopak uses 100% renewable electricity across its global operations, including manufacturing sites and offices. The company has introduced cartons with recycled polymers, aligning with the European Union's upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation requirements. Founded in Norway in 1957, Elopak is committed to strengthening the environmental performance of its packaging through lower-emission materials, efficient resource use, and improved recyclability.
