Avoid materials ‘turf war’ in lower carbon economy mission, urges UK MPMA Director

05 Mar 2020 --- Packaging Innovations 2020 ‘Big Carbon Debate’ participant, Robert Fell, who is Director and CEO of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA), supports the view that it is neither realistic nor practical to ban all plastic packaging in the search for greater environmental sustainability. Fell was encouraged by his experience of the UK’s biggest packaging show, which took place in Birmingham, UK, last week, in which the industry voiced a general acceptance of the need to adopt a more holistic approach to packaging sustainability and one that avoids a materials ‘turf war.’

In this exclusive interview with PackagingInsights, Fell discusses the effects of consumer expectations on climate change, the carbon reduction benefits of metal packaging and the role of MPMA in ensuring the voice of metal is heard “loud and clear.”

What was your involvement at Packaging Innovations 2020?
Fell: I took part in the ‘Big Carbon Debate’ – highlighting the case for metal packaging in reducing waste through its long shelf-life, and reducing energy through its ambient storage during transportation, in store and at home.

What were your key takeaways from the ‘Big Carbon Debate?’
Fell: The point was well made that the packaging industry needs to adopt a holistic approach to packaging and move on from the initial emotional call to ban all plastic packaging, which is neither realistic or practical. I was reassured by the general acceptance that any transition to a lower carbon economy would need to be underpinned by a more holistic approach and that a materials ‘turf war’ would not resolve the carbon debate.

There was also useful recognition that consumer demand and expectations play a big part: as consumers, we need to be realistic about what we can and can’t have if we want to reduce our carbon footprint, and we all need to make behavioral changes accordingly. It’s not just about producers and retailers. The demand for out of season fruit and veg, shipped in from warmer climates and stored in plastic packaging to extend shelf-life by a few days, for example, was cited as something consumers should stop and consider. We perhaps need to move away from out of season produce, which comes with a high carbon footprint in transportation and storage, especially when there are real alternatives which can be used instead – tinned produce, for example, or simply buying produce which is in season and as such has a lower footprint.

Were you satisfied with the representation of metal packaging at the show?
Fell: The sustainability benefits of metal were well represented. Our sector’s ‘Metal Recycles Forever’ logo was evident. Also, the versatility of metal packaging was on show as many different print and finishing techniques were presented.

What influence does MPMA have on the metal packaging sector?
Fell: MPMA works with its members to influence and shape the key issues impacting our sector. We promote and lobby at national level, either directly or in conjunction with partner organizations, representing our industry to key government stakeholders on issues that impact metal packaging. Representation has recently been made to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Zero Waste Scotland and the Environment Agency. Matters covered include technical, regulatory and environmental issues, up-to-date information on Brexit, Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Resources & Waste Strategy.

We also meet regularly with key retailers and brand owners to ensure that the case for metal’s voice is heard loud and clear. Some members who came into the scope of the Climate Change Levy and joined the sector’s Climate Change Agreement Scheme, MPMA (CCL) Limited, received a considerable discount on their Levy. To date, members have saved a total of over £7.2 million (US$9.3 million) in discounts and MPMA is currently involved in the shaping of the new scheme which will come into force from 2023.

What advice would you give to ensure DRS is implemented effectively?
Fell: We welcome any move which reduces the negative impact of packaging on the environment and MPMA contributed to the initial DEFRA consultation on DRS. Looking ahead, we will continue to support our industry partners, such as ALUPRO, which is driving a robust response, especially in Scotland where trials will take place, and work to ensure the best possible outcome for beverage can collection and recycling.

What do you regard as the main challenges facing the metal packaging industry and how can they be overcome?
Fell: There are many challenges, some cited above, but what’s important is that metal packaging has a voice that is heard where it matters. That’s why we place great emphasis on highlighting metal’s sustainability credentials across many different platforms: traditional and social media, supporting industry events such as Packaging Innovations and the UK Packaging Awards; and maintaining an effective presence across government departments and related organizations.

By Joshua Poole