“Green packaging” trends drive sustainable production solutions
The rising demand for green packaging is pushing manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly materials and advanced technology to create safe, multi-functional packaging. Concerns over harmful chemicals like PFAS and BPA are driving research into green alternatives, including biodegradable bioplastics.
The demand for sustainable packaging is rising, pushing manufacturers to focus on eco-friendly and recyclable materials. This trend also encourages using technology to create smart, multi-functional packaging. Modern packaging materials need to be sustainable and meet food safety standards, comply with regulations, and avoid harmful chemicals like PFAS and toluene—pollutants harmful to health and the environment.
Many studies are exploring alternatives to address these challenges, such as using activated carbon filters to remove PFAS from water. As part of the goal to achieve zero waste by 2050, businesses are emphasizing green production and emission reduction strategies, including automation, energy optimization, and equipment performance measurement.
Future Directions for Green Packaging
Experts highlight that green packaging not only ensures safety but also builds consumer trust and enhances brand value. By advancing sustainable solutions, the packaging industry can help protect public health and the environment, while meeting increasingly strict global standards.
According to packaging research expert Nguyen Ngoc Ngan, the printing and packaging industry, a major polluter, faces significant challenges from stringent environmental regulations. High standards from governments, clients, and consumers are driving businesses to implement solutions to ensure packaging meets safety and sustainability criteria.
Reducing Harmful Chemicals in Food Packaging
A Consumer Reports study revealed that 99% of packaged foods in supermarkets contain phthalates (plastic softeners), and 79% contain bisphenol A (BPA), a hormone disruptor. On September 18, 2024, AFP cited Birgit Geueke from Switzerland’s Food Packaging Forum (FPF), noting that up to 3,600 chemicals from packaging are found in the human body, with around 100 classified as “high concern,” including PFAS.
Hazards of PFAS Chemicals
Birgit Geueke, lead researcher at FPF, warned that PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” do not naturally degrade and can accumulate in the body. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has linked PFAS to serious health risks, including cancer, kidney disease, thyroid problems, high cholesterol, immune system effects, and low birth weights in infants. BPA, banned in baby bottles in many countries, remains a challenge for packaging manufacturers.
Studies also show these chemicals can interact, with each sample containing up to 30 types of PFAS. Researchers recommend reducing contact time between food and packaging, especially avoiding reheating food in plastic packaging.
With growing concerns over harmful chemicals in packaging, the shift to green packaging is becoming a priority. Expert Tran Thanh Hau notes a surge in consumers choosing eco-friendly packaging, especially between 2022 and 2023.
This interest has accelerated the development of biodegradable bio-based plastics, which not only reduce waste but also lessen health risks. Bio-degradable plastics are becoming increasingly popular in the packaging industry and are projected to be the optimal solution to replace traditional, polluting plastics.
About ProPak Vietnam 2025 Exhibition
To support Vietnam’s 14,000 companies in packaging and production, ProPak Vietnam 2025 will take place from March 18 to 20 at Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), 799 Nguyen Van Linh, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
In 2025, ProPak Vietnam will span 11,000 square meters, showcasing over 310 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and territories. This event promises to be an unmissable destination to experience cutting-edge technology and services from leading global suppliers.
