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MSU presents holistic approach: announces new industry 'think tank'

The approximate 100-person attendee list for Michigan State University's second annual Packaging Executives Forum read like a who's who of consumer packaged goods companies and packaging suppliers.

Pw 5803 Gp Msu

"In the midst of tough economic times, packaging is a very exciting area," Dr. Jeffrey Armstrong, dean of the College of Agriculture and Resources, told audience members in his opening speech. "The bottom line is that sustainability is the key to long-term profitability."

The College of Agriculture and Resources, which encompasses the School of Packaging, was one of three MSU schools represented at the event. Also in attendance were the College of Engineering and the Eli Broad College of Business (Department of Supply Chain Management). Together, these colleges are collaborating to provide a holistic academic approach to sustainability.

The importance of such an integrated view of sustainability was reflected in several presentations, including one by Jane Bickerstaff, director of the U.K.'s Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN). In her presentation, "Holistic approach to sustainability: Avoiding unintended consequences," Bickerstaff noted how, during each step of a package's life cycle, there are different expectations and demands as regards sustainability. Therefore, to design a package for minimal environmental impact, as well as cost efficiency, all stages must be considered.

"In the U.K., while retailers' demands on suppliers have stimulated and identified opportunities for improvement, they have tended to focus on single issues, such as 'minimized packaging,' 'recycled content,' or 'biopolymers,' without thoughts of impact on other parts of the supply chain," she said. "It is essential to consider environmental impacts at all stages."

Bickerstaff also discussed INCPEN's efforts in the U.K. to educate consumers on the vital role that packaging plays. In one widely circulated example, a cucumber with or without packaging is considered. Unwrapped, the vegetable is unsaleable after three days, the promotion reads. But, wrapped in 1.5 grams of film, the cucumber lasts 14 days—and longer at home. "Packaging prevents far more waste than it generates," Bickerstaff noted. "It is actually insurance that you don't waste all the energy you put into sourcing the product."

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