Alternative packaging instead of plastic – with a Hungarian video

What role does packaging material play in sustainability?

According to European Union statistics, in 2017 the "average" EU citizen used 174 kg of packaging per year. This is a staggering number, especially when we know that 32 kg of this is never returned – meaning it is neither reused nor recycled in any way.

What makes packaging environmentally friendly?

This is a very complex question, but – to greatly simplify it – it comes down to having the smallest possible ecological footprint. This can be calculated by adding up how much land area is needed to create the raw materials, how much fossil energy is required for production and transportation, and how much built-up area is used by the factory, distributor, shipper, and so on. If we end up with a relatively small number, we can be pleased.

Do you think it's possible to live without packaging in today's consumer society?

It depends on who and where. In urban environments, far from nature: it's difficult. We're not saying it's impossible, but it certainly presents a major challenge. However, if someone is truly committed, there are already numerous ways to live packaging-free, even in the largest metropolises.

What changes would need to happen in households so that we have less packaging waste ending up in the trash?

It depends on where you are. In downtown Budapest, in a household where family members work from morning to evening and only manage to pop into a store before closing, there are fewer options. They can bring reusable bags for vegetables, fruits, and baked goods. Fortunately, there are increasingly more stores that support this, from corner shops to supermarket chains. On a farm where almost everything is available for self-sufficiency, this isn't as big a problem. Here, it would actually be strange if the farmer wrapped tomatoes before putting them on the table.

Here's a great video that illustrates the plastic problem – and it's in Hungarian:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KWb-cM0KnE

Although people say we should use paper-based products instead of plastic, the question arises: what about the trees? Which is the better alternative?

For paper, we recommend recycled materials; however, in our view, the best alternative is sugarcane. The sugarcane stalks used in sugar production are transformed – instead of being burned or thrown away – into a fibrous cellulose-like material from which various products can be manufactured, such as takeaway boxes, plates, and bowls.

Due to their strong structure, moisture-resistant properties, and resistance to grease and cutting, products made from this material can be excellent alternatives to plastic packaging. Wood is not always an alternative to plastic, since plastic exists in countless variations: hard and soft, heat-meltable and heat-hardening, designed for extremely long lifespans and, unfortunately, also made for just minutes of use. In any case, the environmental impact is generally lower with wood.

What is Hungary's situation regarding sustainability?

Unfortunately, in the current situation, sustainability has taken a step back, but we got off to a good start. We're pleased with steps such as the ban on single-use plastics starting next summer. Additionally, carbon neutrality is also a key issue, and it's important to us that we achieve this as soon as possible.

What foreign examples could be followed and should be applied in Hungary as well?

There are many, but we'd like to mention just two interesting examples now. One is that Sweden imports waste so that its recycling facilities can operate at full capacity. The other is France, where neither "ugly" food nor items close to their expiration date can be thrown away – if there's no other way, the retailer must give them away for free. This benefits not only the environment but also social solidarity, as those less well-off won't go hungry.