Finland-based company Raisio has announced signing the European Commission’s (EC) Green Deal on minimising the use of single-use plastic food containers.

The Green Deal comprises a set of policy initiatives established by the EC to make EU nations climate neutral by 2050.

It is based upon the EU Directive to curtail the impact of certain plastic products on the environment, as well as reduce the amount of plastic litter in nature, primarily on seashores.

Implementation of these efforts is further expected to promote a circular economy system across the EU's member nations.

In terms of packaging, the Green Deal aims to reduce the use and circulation of single-use food packaging, which is either entirely or partly made using plastic material.

Raisio said that the targets included in the Green Deal 'fit well' with its long-term sustainability efforts, which are already underway.

Through its latest commitment, Raisio is exploring the possibility of using other sustainable alternatives to replace single-use plastic food containers.

Raisio Legal Affairs and Corporate Responsibility CLO Sari Koivulehto-Mäkitalo said: “The Green Deal on reducing the consumption of single-use plastic food containers only applies to products that are sold individually, are consumed directly from the container and do not need to be prepared by the consumer before consumption, meaning that it only applies to a very small part of Raisio’s product range.

“Therefore, we will continue our longstanding work on material efficiency in addition to the Green Deal.”

The Finnish company also intends to spread awareness and educate its employees and consumers about the environmental impact of single-use packaging, alternative solutions, recycling options, and litter prevention.