



Sustainability is no longer a niche concern. It is increasingly a core business requirement, particularly for companies that manufacture, package, import, or sell products in Europe. One of the most significant developments in this area is the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which entered and will apply from 12 August 2026.
July is the ideal time for businesses to commit to going plastic-free, as heightened awareness of initiatives such as Plastic Free July inspires both companies and customers to make more sustainable choices. It’s an opportunity to review packaging, switch to recyclable or compostable materials, and reduce single-use plastics across daily operations. By taking action during this highly visible month, businesses not only reduce their environmental impact but also demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability—something that resonates strongly with today’s eco-conscious consumers.
In today’s rapidly evolving market, custom packaging is no longer just about aesthetics and branding—it’s about responsibility, efficiency, and long-term impact. As businesses face mounting pressure from consumers, regulators, and environmental groups, incorporating lifecycle thinking into the production of custom packaging has become essential. This approach ensures that every stage of a package’s life—from raw material sourcing to disposal—is optimised for sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and performance.
The Rising Need for Sustainable Packaging
Traditional packaging—especially single-use plastics and non-recyclable composites—has long contributed to environmental challenges, including landfill waste, ocean pollution, and carbon emissions. With tightening regulations and growing consumer demand for greener alternatives, companies are being pushed to rethink their approach.The Three R’s used to refer to Reading, Writing and Arithmetic but are now better know as Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. But there is a new interloper in town – Carbon Reduction – and it’s getting a lot of traction. Does this mean that we should forget about the three R’s and head in a different direction in order to reach our environmental goals and more importantly, which is more beneficial?
If you’ve looked into sustainable stationery, printing, or packaging, you’ve likely noticed the small “tree-tick” logo popping up everywhere. This symbol represents the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)—one of the most trusted organisations in global forest sustainability. But what exactly does FSC paper mean, and why do so many schools, companies, printers, and packaging providers emphasise its importance? Let’s break it down.
Being a responsible business isn’t a slogan for us — it’s a standard. We are proud to celebrate our third year of successful accreditation with the Good Business Charter (GBC), an achievement that reflects our long-term commitment to fairness, sustainability, and ethical business practices. The Good Business Charter is considered the UK’s standard for responsible business. It was developed with the help of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), Trades Union Congress (TUC), and Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), establishing clear expectations for responsible conduct. Its ten elements—covering aspects like paying the Real Living Wage, fair contracts, environmental care, and ethical sourcing—offer a transparent framework for organisations dedicated to prioritising people and the planet.