In response to the packaging sector's growing demand for innovative tools to measure environmental impact, Packaging Cluster leads the PackImpact 2.0 project, a collaborative initiative that seeks to revolutionize the way companies assess and improve the sustainability of their products. PackImpact is an online tool that allows you to measure the environmental impact of packaging products. It stands out for its ability to quantify environmental impact through Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), offer a recyclability classification in a qualitative matrix, allow a quick and intuitive comparison of environmental impacts, and generate environmental self-declaration reports in accordance with the ISO standard. 14040.

The project arises from the need for the packaging sector to adapt to new realities, including legislative changes such as the new Waste and Contaminated Soil Law. The transition to a more sustainable economy and pressure to reduce carbon footprint are key drivers. It has the collaboration of prominent players in the sector, including INÈDIT, specialists in eco-innovation and those in charge of the technical creation of the tool and the carbon footprint analysis; AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technological Institute that provides data to improve the tool and performs recyclability tests; COMEXI, through its Technology Center that extracts manufacturing data from its machinery to feed the tool database; IFLEX FLEXIBLE PACKAGING, manufacturer of flexible packaging participating in data extraction and in charge of carrying out mechanical recycling tests on its products; and PACKAGING CLUSTER as the leading entity of the project that coordinates the activities and promotes the dissemination of the results.

Potential and Unique Features of PackImpact 

PackImpact stands out for its ability to improve the competitiveness of companies in the packaging sector. The rigorous application of Life Cycle Analysis provides exhaustive studies and precise quantifications of the environmental impact of packaging, allowing for more effective and sustainable strategies. Unlike other generic tools, PackImpact focuses specifically on the packaging sector, providing accurate and relevant information adapted to the particularities of the industry. Accessibility and ease of use are fundamental to PackImpact, with an intuitive interface that allows companies of any size to use the tool efficiently. As it is based on real and local data extracted from companies in the sector in Spain, the information provided is truthful and relevant to the local market. The tool also stands out for offering an environmental self-declaration of products, allowing companies to quantitatively communicate the sustainability of their products.

Specific Benefits for SMEs

For SMEs in the packaging sector, PackImpact is presented as a crucial tool. The current confusion about what type of packaging is most sustainable can be resolved by using this platform, improving decision making and strengthening sales messages with detailed analysis. PackImpact's ease of use and accessibility are particularly beneficial for SMEs, who can easily integrate the tool into their internal processes and make informed decisions without requiring specialized sustainability staff. In addition, PackImpact helps SMEs identify opportunities for improvement in the design and manufacturing of more sustainable packaging, contributing not only to reducing environmental impact, but also generating savings in production costs and waste management. Expected results PackImpact 2.0 aims to improve the environmental sustainability of products, promote the circular economy and facilitate informed decisions in packaging design. In addition, it is expected to foster collaboration, improve the brand image of participating companies and contribute to compliance with environmental regulations. The project will move forward with tool development, data collection and testing, with the goal of launching PackImpact 2.0 as an essential tool for the packaging sector.

This project is co-financed by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism (MINCOTUR) through the 2023 call for the 2023 AEI within the framework of the Next Generation aid and the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.