Moonen Packaging: Looking for new circular opportunities and collaborations

Moonen Packaging and the CIRCO Track

What are the biggest challenges in sustainability Moonen Packaging is currently facing?

‘Sustainability is one of the biggest challenges for packaging wholesalers today,’ begins Houtappels. ‘Governments are imposing increasingly strict regulations on packaging, such as restrictions on the use of plastic and requirements for end-of-life processes, such as recycling.’

These rules force companies to adapt their products and processes, which is not always easy. ‘We have to continuously innovate to comply with these regulations,’ Houtappels explains. ‘But that is not the only challenge. Our customers - both consumers and businesses - increasingly expect sustainable packaging solutions. This puts pressure on wholesalers to develop eco-friendly products that are also competitive in price and quality.’

Developing sustainable materials requires hefty investments in research and technology. ‘It can be a challenge to keep abreast of the latest innovations and integrate them effectively into our product offering,’ says Houtappels. ‘And even if we offer sustainable packaging, the recycling infrastructure is not yet sufficiently developed in many areas. This means that sustainable packaging is not processed properly and thus our efforts are not fully realised.’

What does Moonen Packaging's future look like in terms of circular business?

‘The best packaging is not packaging,’ says Houtappels. ‘Corporate circularity will no longer be an option, but rather a core part of business strategy. Wholesalers who succeed in integrating circularity into their business operations will not only comply with legal requirements, but also distinguish themselves as leaders in sustainability.’

Moonen Packaging will increasingly focus on packaging solutions specifically designed for reuse, repair or recycling, with the aim of using as few packaging materials as possible. ‘We want to get rid of disposable products and work on packaging that goes through multiple life cycles,’ Houtappels explains. ‘Think of modular packaging that can be easily disassembled or materials that can be easily separated for recycling.’

But circular enterprise does not stop at the product. ‘It requires close cooperation between all links in the supply chain - from producers to end users,’ Houtappels stresses. ‘Wholesalers will play a central role in coordinating this collaboration, for example by facilitating take-back systems for used packaging and supporting recycling processes. Technology will play a crucial role here. From tracking and traceability systems to follow packaging through its life cycle, to developing fully biodegradable materials. Adding data on products is essential; the so-called LCA is becoming increasingly important to understand the footprint of packaging.’

What benefits do you expect to gain by participating in the CIRCO track?

‘Participation in the CIRCO track helps us to further strengthen our position as a leader in circular business,’ says Houtappels. ‘This track allows us to identify specific circular opportunities within our current business model and product offering. This includes identifying opportunities for redesigning products and services to minimise waste and make better use of raw materials.’

The programme provides concrete tools and methodologies to implement circular designs and processes. ‘We can directly apply this knowledge in our product development, supply chain and customer interactions,’ Houtappels said. ‘This not only increases our innovation capacity, but also encourages us to think out-of-the-box and develop new, sustainable solutions that strengthen our competitive position.’

Another important aspect of the CIRCO track is the opportunity to network. ‘We come into contact with other companies, experts and stakeholders who also focus on circularity,’ Houtappels explains. ‘This network is of great value for exchanging knowledge, establishing partnerships and finding partners for circular projects. By implementing circular principles now, we are better prepared for future legal requirements.’
Ultimately, it is not just about economic benefit, Houtappels stresses. ‘The CIRCO track helps us make a positive impact on the environment and society. It contributes to achieving our broader sustainability goals, such as reducing CO2 emissions and promoting a circular economy.’