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Sustainability risks in packaging: regulatory challenges
Regulatory pressures and financial liabilities threaten packaging industry operations, requiring urgent mitigation strategies
Risk profile
Packaging
Publication date: 14 Apr 2025
By Eye For Business
Regulatory pressures
Latest disclosures highlight risks from plastic pollution and waste management. Regulatory changes could impose USD100 billion annual costs, with companies missing 2025 sustainability targets. Financial liabilities from plastic-related pollution may reach USD20 billion by 2030, affecting operations globally.
Impacts across the value chain
Risks impact direct operations and downstream activities, with stranded assets in petrochemicals exceeding USD400 billion. Companies face reputational damage and operational disruptions from unsustainable packaging practices. Graphic Packaging International assesses risks, including financial losses and environmental impacts.
Mitigation and adaptation
SCG Packaging uses a four-step risk management framework: identification, assessment, response, reporting. SABIC transitions to low-hazard materials through supplier engagement. Enterprise Risk Management systems integrate board-level insights for risk analysis. CDP’s new plastics questions aim to enhance transparency.
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