Linpac exec hails ‘prestigious’ eco recognition

28-Apr-2016 - Last updated on 09-Feb-2017 at 14:40 GMT

Linpac's trays are made with up to 95% recycled plastic

Plastic packaging manufacturer Linpac has been selected as a finalist for the 2016 European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) and, naturally, its director of innovation is chuffed.

The EBAE celebrates eco-innovation across the EU and it is Linpac’s Rfresh Elite rPET tray for meat, fish and poultry that has been recognised for the coveted award. The product was two years in the making and has a unique patented sealant on the tray flange, which creates a strong seal with the lidding film. This, Linpac said, removed the need to use traditional laminated polyethylene film.

Its sealing system is a “breakthrough in tray packaging design”, because a recycled Elite tray will yield 100% clear PET plastic, according to the company.

Organised by the European Commission, the EBAE awards outstanding contributions to sustainable development and recognises companies that develop products which fuse innovation, economic viability, environmental sustainability and social equity.

‘Enviornmental challenge’

LINPAC is one of 11 businesses from the UK that have been recognised in the shortlist.

“Representing the UK in such a prestigious award is a testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into keeping LINPAC at the forefront of the packaging environmental challenge and we were delighted to receive the recognition and share it with our employees and key stakeholders,” said Alan Davey, director of innovation at LINPAC.

LINPAC’s Elite trays are made from anything up to 95% post-consumer recyclable plastic to create a sustainable and eco-conscious recycling chain. The products are also lightweight and are said to reduce the carbon footprint of trays without reducing the operational efficiency with which LINPAC produces its trays.

“Our commitment to environmental stewardship has become embedded into the very ethos of our company,” added Davey. “We believe that the external recognitions that we have received to date help us attract, retain and engage our employees, customers and partners. It helps to validate that we are doing the right thing. Being recognised at these awards is an honour of our achievements in improving our environment and encourages other manufacturers within the industry to follow our lead.”

The European finals of the EBAE will be held in Estonia’s capital Tallinn in October 2016.