Packaging Innovations Weekly Wrap - UK Firms Urged to Adopt Compostable Packaging by 2013

The group has also launched a step-by-step guide to compostable packaging for food products.

05/12/2007 ENVIRONMENTAL PACKAGING - UK environmental group Green Alliance has challenged retailers and manufacturers to make all food packaging recyclable or compostable by 2013.

Green Alliance says it hopes the target will spur innovation in the area.

"Reducing packaging and considering reusable packaging where appropriate should be the first step," Green Alliance says.

"If packaging is needed, the choice between recyclable or compostable depends on its application and the availability of a suitable recovery route."

The guidance is supported by retailers Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury's and Boots.

The group has also launched a step-by-step guide to compostable packaging for food products.

ALEXIR COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING

UK folding carton manufacturer Alexir Packaging has launched a new range of fully compostable direct contact food packaging.

The Alpha C range, which does not contain any plastic, is the first packaging of its kind to be accredited by the Composting Association.

Alexir says the carton is available in various sizes, with or without a window, and can be designed to meet specific customer needs.

Sales director Tom Sene says the company is working to develop the product further.

"We have now achieved a fully compostable pack produced from sustainable and renewable resources suitable for direct food contact with proven shelf life – the next step is to work with our customers to achieve a pack that meets the compostable target for all food requiring direct food contact packaging."

LIGHTWEIGHT COKE

Coca-Cola has announced a redesign of its iconic glass bottles that will save up to 2,400t of CO2 a year.

The company says 330ml servings of Coca-Cola, Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Zero will now be packaging in a new lightweight glass bottle.

The bottle retains the classic design of the Coke Contour bottle, which was developed in 1916, but the weight has been reduced by 20 percent from 263g to 210g.

The bottle's height has also been reduced by 13mm and the width has expanded by 0.1mm.

In June, Coke signed up to the Courtauld Commitment, which will see it achieve an absolute reduction in packaging by 2010.