The European Union's stringent regulatory landscape and the global shift towards sustainability are driving fruit growers to adopt more eco-friendly practices in their operations. Smurfit Westrock has introduced corrugated cardboard options to address these evolving needs. This not only offers logistical efficiencies but also plays a crucial role in minimizing the environmental impact of the sector's activities.
One notable achievement is the collaboration with a Brazilian fruit producer and exporter, where Smurfit Westrock's sustainable packaging solutions have replaced 120,000 non-renewable material-based packages. This initiative has led to a commendable reduction of 63 tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the significant environmental benefits that can be achieved through packaging innovations.
The shift towards sustainable packaging is also vital for enhancing product value at the point of sale, addressing waste reduction, and meeting the ban on single-use plastics enforced in various regions. These packaging solutions are designed to optimize storage and transportation, essential factors for fruit growers aiming to bolster their market competitiveness.
Smurfit Westrock's array of solutions for the agribusiness sector is geared towards improving transportation efficiency and supply chain dynamics, while also safeguarding and elevating the value of fruits and vegetables at the retail level. "With the growing demand for sustainable packaging, especially in European countries, we are developing solutions that not only reduce waste and carbon emissions but also help producers optimize their logistics operations," states Vinicius Soares, vice president of Corrugated Cardboard at Smurfit Westrock Brazil.
Source: Abrafrutas