AkzoNobel Publishes Guide on Sustainability and Advances in Metal Packaging

AkzoNobel Packaging Coatings has launched a new white paper entitled Material Matters, which shares best practices and analyzes how metal packaging manufacturers and the food and beverage industry can address regulatory changes and sustainability requirements throughout the value chain.

The document focuses on key aspects of ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) policy, including the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC), circularity, and climate change mitigation. It describes the challenges and opportunities these regulations pose, as well as the steps companies are taking to comply with them.

An essential part of the white paper is how new reporting requirements are forcing companies to better understand the material issues for their business, providing information on ESG impacts both in their operations and throughout the supply chain. AkzoNobel was one of the first companies to report its 2024 sustainability information according to the CSRD, and Tessa Slagter, Sustainable Innovation Manager, highlights the importance of sharing knowledge:

“The CSRD drives companies to publish their ESG efforts on material issues. At AkzoNobel, we believe in sharing our knowledge to help others navigate the complexity of compliance and reporting.”

The document is divided into two main sections:

1. Reporting and sustainability requirements: analyzes the new depth of information required by the CSRD, the obligation to reduce waste, promote the circular economy, and climate action strategies. It also addresses how advances in coating technology benefit manufacturers and brands by offering solutions with a smaller carbon footprint and regulatory compliance.
2. Sustainable innovation: details AkzoNobel’s vision to create high-performance technologies that combine efficiency, food protection, and reduced environmental impact, advancing responsible innovation.

Chris Bradford, Market Director for Coil & Packaging Coatings, emphasizes the company’s commitment:

“The industry is moving towards environmental sustainability and a safe future for metal food and beverage packaging. At AkzoNobel, we are proud to support this progress by developing alternative technologies that maintain the protection, reliability, and efficiency of traditional solutions, with a lower environmental impact.”

In summary, Material Matters offers a practical guide for the metal packaging industry to comply with regulations, improve its ESG performance, and adopt sustainable innovations that reduce environmental impact.