New book makes sense of sustainable packaging

Field Guide to Sustainable Packaging, published by Packaging World, is an 80-page handbook that motivates and informs organizations about how to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging.

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It is available for purchase online at www.packworld.com/fieldguide or amazon.com.

Early reviewer Scott Vitters, director Sustainable Packaging, The Coca-Cola Company, said about the Field Guide, “Whether just starting out or a seasoned veteran on the journey to sustainability this book is a valuable read.” Kay Cooksey, professor of Packaging Science, Clemson University said the Field Guide, “will be helpful for brainstorming activities and group discussion for developing truly sustainable packaging for today and the future.” President of Cargo Cosmetics Hana Zalzal said, “This book is a must-have resource—informing and inspiring—for any business embracing the new rules. Lead, follow, or get out of the way. But read this book regardless.”

The Field Guide to Sustainable Packaging traces the origins of sustainability by examining economic, social, and environmental trends over the last 30 years, including the impact of books, films, and world events on perceptions of sustainability. Two definitions of sustainable packaging are presented, and the author offers insights on how to use those definitions to make sustainable packaging actionable.

A discussion of the Wal-Mart Packaging Scorecard is the jumping off point for strategies and tactics for implementing sustainable packaging programs. Several case examples illustrate best practices. One chapter is devoted exclusively to resources, including online tools, sustainability organizations, schools, and associations. The guide concludes with sustainable packaging stewardship profiles from the Field Guide’s many sponsors.

“Readers are not only going to be surprised at how motivational the Field Guide is, but also delighted by the enormous amount of valuable resource information easily accessible in its 80 pages,” said Joseph Angel, vice president and publisher of Packaging World magazine. “The author, Steve Sterling, has taken a complex technical topic and transformed it into a compelling story illustrated by the men, women, and organizations that are making a difference. We believe the Field Guide will become the most often used desk reference on sustainable packaging.”

Volume discounts are available by calling Summit Publishing at 800/355-5595.

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