Life cycle analysis of food packaging made from paper contributes to informed choices in the packaging chain
A new life cycle analysis shows that the fossil climate impact of a food container made from Nordic Paper’s unbleached greaseproof paper is 5.3 grams CO2e.
“We hope this result can help customers in the food packaging chain to make informed choices,” says Johan Berglund, Area Sales Director.
Let’s start by clarifying what a greaseproof paper is. In short, it’s a collective term for paper grades characterized by their grease-resistant properties. The most common application is in direct contact with food, for example as baking paper or, as in this case, in food containers. Nordic Paper produces natural greaseproof paper entirely without the addition of fluorochemicals such as PFAS. The papers are also compost certified.
Life cycle analysis – from cradle to grave
A life cycle analysis of a food container was recently carried out together with a consultant and reviewed by an independent third party in accordance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044. The packaging can be used for a broad range of chilled and frozen dishes, but is especially suited for different types of pie. The analysis covers the entire life cycle, from raw material input and production to end-of-life handling – also called cradle to grave. The food container in the study was manufactured in Sweden from unbleached greaseproof paper produced by Nordic Paper in Säffle, Sweden. At the end of its life cycle, the product was assessed as either recycled, incinerated, or landfilled, in line with statistics from Swedish waste management.
An alternative to fossil-based materials
The results of the study are clear. The total fossil climate impact of a food tray amounted to 5.3 grams CO2e.
“If you ask me, these are very impressive figures. I think it clearly states the potential of paper, and what a fantastic alternative it is to fossil-based materials,” says Jenny Sjöstedt, Sustainability Manager.
