Better packaging, clearer outcomes

Practical sustainability for modern pouch packaging

We help brands shift from “use & bin” to a circular mindset—choosing materials with a proven end-of-life pathway, right-sizing packs, and printing locally to reduce waste and freight.

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What we mean by “sustainable packaging”

For us, sustainability is about designing for the whole life of the pack—from material choice and print method to what happens after use. That means prioritising formats that protect food (so less spoilage), using materials with a credible pathway (recycling or composting) and communicating disposal clearly to customers.

Australia is moving from a linear “make-use-waste” model toward a circular economy. The right approach depends on your product, volumes and where your customers live. We’ll guide you to options that are both realistic and responsible.

  • Product protection first
  • Proven end-of-life pathway
  • Local print, reduced waste

Materials & pathways

Choose the outcome you can stand behind

  • Recyclable

    Mono-material films

    Packs designed from a single primary polymer (e.g. PE) can be recovered through appropriate soft-plastic streams where available. Clear guidance on-pack is essential.

    • Best for: dry goods, snacks, coffee (with valve where needed)
    • End-of-life: store drop-off / soft-plastic programs as available
  • Compostable

    Commercial composting

    Plant-based structures that meet AS 4736 (industrial composting). Works where collection and processing facilities exist; print, zipper and valve must also comply.

    • Best for: food-service, regions with commercial compost access
    • End-of-life: certified industrial composting streams
  • Home compostable

    Back-yard compost

    Materials certified to AS 5810 break down in a home compost environment within a set timeframe. Every component—including inks, zipper and labels—must be compliant.

    • Best for: eco-led brands with engaged customers
    • End-of-life: home green bin/compost per council guidance
  • Read this first

    About “biodegradable” claims

    “Biodegradable” is vague without a standard or timeframe. Some plastics fragment rather than fully decompose and may not be recyclable. Use clear, defensible claims and avoid greenwashing.

    • Do: reference recognised standards, keep records
    • Avoid: broad, unqualified environmental statements

Tip: Use plain-language disposal instructions and, where appropriate, the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) to remove guesswork.

How we build lower-impact packs

  • Right-sizing and light-weighting to cut material use without compromising protection.
  • Local digital print reduces over-production, freight and set-up waste.
  • Clear windows, valves & zips specced only when they add value (and aligned to the chosen pathway).
  • Documentation support for claims—spec sheets, certifications and artwork notes for labels.

Start where you are

We’ll help you choose the right material and message

Pragmatic options for today, with a plan for tomorrow.

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