Upcoming sustainable packaging mandates are driving significant changes across supply chains as businesses prepare for new regulatory requirements.
Regulatory Requirements
National Packaging Targets
- 2025: 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging
- 2025: 50% average recycled content
- 2025: Phase out problematic single-use plastics
- 2030: 80% packaging recovery and recycling rate
Compliance Obligations
Affected parties:
- Brand owners and importers
- Packaging manufacturers
- Retailers and e-commerce operators
- Logistics providers (transport packaging)
Supply Chain Impacts
Packaging Redesign
Common changes:
- Reduced packaging dimensions
- Material substitution (plastic to cardboard)
- Mono-material designs for recyclability
- Reusable packaging trials
Logistics Considerations
Operational impacts:
- Cube utilisation changes
- Handling procedure updates
- Damage rate monitoring
- Reverse logistics for reusables
Industry Initiatives
Collaborative Programs
- APCO (Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation) leadership
- Retailer packaging standards alignment
- Carrier damage feedback programs
- Recycling infrastructure investment
Innovation Areas
Emerging solutions:
- Right-sized packaging automation
- Mushroom and seaweed-based materials
- Reusable delivery containers
- Smart packaging for traceability
Cost Implications
Transition costs include:
- Packaging material premiums (reducing over time)
- Design and testing investment
- Process change implementation
- Compliance reporting systems
The transition represents both cost pressure and sustainability opportunity for the logistics sector.