The carbon impact of packaging has decreased by 4.5%, according to the first year results of the Waste & Resources Action Programme’s (WRAP) Courtauld commitment phase three.
The report claims that efforts to reduce packaging, increase recycled content and use different packaging materials have contributed to a significant reduction in the carbon impact of packaging.
Go deeper with GlobalData
It also highlights that food waste prevention efforts have led to 80% more food being redistributed.
There has been an increase in recycling and recovery, with less material going to sewers or for disposal. In addition, the amount of unsold food redistributed for human consumption has almost doubled from 21kt to 38kt.
WRAP will partner with Courtauld signatories to help them implement more waste prevention and resource efficiency measures.
WRAP Sustainable Food Systems director Richard Swannell said: "I am delighted that progress on the packaging target has exceeded expectations and redistribution has increased significantly.
"There is still much to do before the end of this third phase though, with the biggest challenge being the manufacturing and retail target. We will be working closely with signatories to help ensure all the targets are met."
The third phase of Courtauld aims to improve packaging design through the supply chain to maximise recycled content. It also intends to reduce packaging waste in the grocery supply chain by 3% this year.
