Hotpack adjusts production as UAE enforces second phase of single-use plastic ban

    Dubai, UAE – As the UAE prepares to implement the second phase of its nationwide single-use plastic ban from January 1, 2026, local packaging manufacturers, including Hotpack, are adjusting materials, production lines, and supply chains to meet the expanded regulatory requirements set by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This phase …

UAE enforces wider single-use plastic ban across retail and manufacturing sectors

    The United Arab Emirates implemented the second phase of its federal single-use plastic ban on January 1, 2026, expanding restrictions across retail and manufacturing sectors. The ban, led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), prohibits the import, manufacture, and trade of single-use plastic products including beverage cups and lids, cutlery, …

Amcor launches all-plastic Grace head for Wave pump with focus on design and recyclability

    Amcor has introduced the Grace head for its all-plastic Wave 2cc pump, aimed at the personal care market. The development focuses on combining consumer-friendly design with recyclable materials, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support circular economy practices.     The Grace actuator is designed for both function and form. Its …

EPBP launches consultation on Design for Circularity guidelines for PET bottles

      The European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) has launched a two-month industry consultation to gather feedback on its newly developed Design for Circularity (DfC) guidelines for PET bottles. The initiative, which runs until February 15, 2026, aims to engage stakeholders across the PET value chain in refining the draft framework before its finalisation. …

Mondi and Polana Bikes develop recyclable paper packaging for premium bicycle shipments

    Mondi and Polish bicycle manufacturer Polana Bikes have developed a recyclable paper-based packaging system designed to protect premium bicycles during transport while reducing plastic waste. The solution, developed through close collaboration between the two companies, replaces traditional plastic-heavy packaging with a corrugated cardboard structure and tailored paper components.     The project was …

DS Smith retains EcoVadis Platinum rating with improved sustainability score

      DS Smith has retained its Platinum rating from EcoVadis, a global sustainability assessment platform, marking continued recognition for its corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. The company’s overall score has increased from 83 to 88 out of 100, placing it within the top 1% of all companies evaluated worldwide.     EcoVadis assesses …

Borealis transfers Renasci stake to BlueAlp and acquires 10% share in recycling technology firm

    Borealis has entered a strategic partnership with Dutch chemical recycling technology company BlueAlp, marking a shift in its approach to the chemical recycling value chain. As part of the agreement, Borealis will transfer its majority stake in Belgian chemical recycling firm Renasci to BlueAlp, while acquiring a 10% stake in BlueAlp itself.   …

ALPLA sets up Dutch recycling company to test solvent-based food-grade HDPE process

      Packaging manufacturer ALPLA has established a new recycling company in the Netherlands to pilot a solvent-based recycling process for food-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The four-year initiative is being implemented in partnership with the National Test Centre for Circular Plastics (NTCP) at a facility in Heerenveen.     The project has received funding …

Asahi Group Japan launches first yeast-based milk alternative using SIG aseptic filling system

      Asahi Group Japan has introduced LIKE MILK, the country’s first yeast-based beverage with milk-like properties. The product is packaged in SIG SmallBloc aseptic cartons and filled using the SIG Small 12 Aseptic filling machine. This marks the first commercial collaboration between Asahi Group Japan and SIG.     LIKE MILK is currently …

Cosmo Films expands packaging range with new films for pet food applications

      Cosmo Films has expanded its flexible packaging portfolio with a new range of specialty films tailored for pet food applications. The new range includes solutions based on BOPP, CPP, and BOPET technologies, targeting both dry and wet pet food products. The launch is aimed at addressing the increasing demands for safety, durability, …