Theintroduction of the new European regulation on plastic consumption represents a major turning point for the packaging industry. This regulation of sustainable packaging aims to reduce the environmental impact of plastic materials used in packaging and transport operations by incentivizing the adoption of more sustainable solutions. In this context, companies in the industry are being called upon to innovate, adapting to more stringent standards without compromising the functionality and quality of their products.
The challenges imposed by the new regulation
The European regulation aims to limit the use of single-use plastics and promote the adoption of recyclable or biodegradable materials. For the packaging industry, this means rethinking production processes and materials used, facing significant challenges:
- Reduced plastic consumption: Use less material without compromising load security.
- Adoption of sustainable materials: Integrating recyclable films and environmentally friendly solutions.
- Regulatory compliance: Comply with legal requirements by avoiding penalties and demonstrating a concrete commitment to sustainability.
These challenges require a strategic and technological approach that focuses on innovation and versatility.
Ercopac technology solutions for sustainability
Ercopac is positioned as a leader inimplementing technologies that effectively meet new regulatory requirements. These include advanced pre-stretchwrapping systems that significantly reduce plastic consumption during packaging. This process optimizes film distribution around the load while ensuring stability and safety during transport.
Another distinctive aspect of Ercopac ‘s solutions is the possibility of using recyclable films or reduced thicknesses from 11 to 45 μ, which help to decrease environmental impact without sacrificing operational performance.
To complement the sustainable approach, the metti-top systems patented by Ercopac include an automatic reel carriage change mechanism. This solution allows continuous operation without interruption, optimizing the production process. It also enables the use of thin film tops and helps reduce the overall carbon footprint by limiting pallet accumulation, the need for storage space, and associated transportation.
In addition to the automatic reel carriage change, Ercopac has developed additional patented solutions at the wrapping stage designed to reduce consumption and improve process efficiency. The patented anti-water allows for a waterproof protective cycle in a single wrapping step, significantly reducing material usage and lead time.
This is complemented by the in-line wrapping test system, a technology that allows the quality of the wrapping cycle to be verified directly in production, avoiding film waste and reducing the need to transport loads to external testing centers.
Operational and environmental benefits
Adopting technologies that comply with sustainable packaging regulations means not only complying with regulations, but also gaining competitive advantages.
- Cost reduction: Reduced plastic use results in direct cost savings.
- Process optimization: Modular systems allow easy integration into existing lines, ensuring business continuity.
- Improved corporate image: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability strengthens brand reputation and fosters customer loyalty.
The Role of Sustainability in the Future of Packaging
Regulation on plastic consumption is not only a challenge, but also anopportunity to rethink packaging in a sustainable way. Ercopac is committed to supporting its customers in this transition, offering innovative solutions that not only comply with regulations but also help create a more sustainable future for the entire industry.
In an ever-changing environment, new European regulations are pushing the packaging industry to innovate and invest in cutting-edge technologies. With its scalable solutions, Ercopac is a strategic partner for companies looking to turn regulatory challenges into sustainable growth opportunities.
Insights into regulation and solutions from Ercopac
European plastics regulations represent a major turning point for the packaging industry. This section offers answers to frequently asked questions, delving into both the regulatory environment and Ercopac’s innovative solutions to meet the new challenges.
The rules of Packaging: challenges and opportunities
What exactly are the new European regulations affecting packaging and plastics?
Key regulations include Directive (EU) 2019/904 on reducing the impact of certain plastic products on the environment (the so-called Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive), which bans certain single-use plastic items, and new packaging regulations that set targets for reducing packaging waste and promote the use of recycled materials. There are also specific regulations regarding the recycled plastic content in beverage bottles.
When do these new regulations go into effect?
Many provisions are already in place, such as a ban on certain single-use plastic items. Other deadlines include progressive reduction targets through 2040 and increasing the percentage of recycled plastic in packaging over time. It is important to consult specific legislative texts for exact dates.
What are the penalties for companies that do not comply?
Penalties vary depending on the type of offense and the member state. They may include monetary fines and other administrative measures.
Solutions and benefits proposed by Ercopac
How exactly do advanced pre-stretch banding systems work?
Pre-stretch, or pre-stretch, is a key technology for optimizing plastic film consumption during the wrapping process. This term denotes the stretch applied to the film before it is placed on the load, expressed as a percentage of its original length. For example, a pre-stretch of 100 percent doubles the original length of the film, while the SPIDER wrappers from Ercopac are able to achieve a pre-stretch level of up to 500%, representing technological excellence in the industry.
Operation is simple but highly engineered: the film is stretched between two motorized rollers, whose speed ratio determines the level of elongation. Once applied, the film tends to shrink slightly, creating a controlled tension that ensures load stability.
This process allows two key values to be calculated:
- Applied prestretch: The maximum elongation obtained before application on the product
- Effective stretch: The residual stretch calculated once the film has been applied, taking into account the weight and length of the film.
In situations of very high tension, the actual prestretch may exceed the initial value, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system. However, the real goal is always optimized wrapping, in which the plastic film stabilizes the load using the minimum amount needed without compromising safety or damaging the product.
With the advanced technology of SPIDER wrappers, Ercopac offers the perfect combination of material efficiency, operational precision and sustainability. This approach not only reduces operational costs, but also helps companies meet environmental goals, reducing the overall impact of the supply chain.
What percentage reduction in plastic consumption can be achieved with Ercopac’s solutions?
Ercopac ‘s commitment to sustainability translates into advanced technological solutions that not only comply with environmental regulations but also offer a concrete competitive advantage. A significant example is the use of the 750-mm reel in Ercopac’s wrapping systems, which reduces side film consumption by 10-20% compared to competitors.
The larger coil width allows for more efficient surface coverage, decreasing the number of turns required to complete the wrapping.
The benefit is twofold: on the one hand, valuable resources such as plastic film are saved; on the other hand, production time is reduced, improving operational efficiency.
Reducing plastic consumption is not only a response to European regulations, but an opportunity to improve the environmental impact of the supply chain, positioning the brand as a sustainability pioneer in the packaging industry.
Comprehensive implementation support: services tailored to each client
Ercopac not only provides top-notch technology solutions, but also accompanies its customers at every stage, from implementation to after-sales service, ensuring personalized and comprehensive support. The goal is to maximize the efficiency of installed systems and ensure optimal management of operations.
Here are the main services offered:
- Scheduled and extraordinary maintenance: Ercopac schedules regular interventions to ensure that systems are always operating at peak performance, backed up by extraordinary interventions when needed.
- On-site interventions: Ercopac’s qualified technicians provide direct support at customer sites, completing each intervention with detailed reports and updating the operation and maintenance manual for optimal management.
- Customized training: Ercopac offers flexible training courses, available both online and on-site, with content that can be customized to the client’s specific needs.
- Dedicated technical support: Diagnosis of hardware and software issues is available both remotely and on-site for quick and effective resolution of any critical issues.
These services are designed to provide a seamless experience, offering customers tailored support that fits their operational needs. With Ercopac, assistance is not limited to technology, but becomes a true partnership for success.
Do you have certifications that attest to the sustainability of your solutions?
Ercopac is committed to the highest standards of quality and sustainability, as evidenced by the certifications obtained by the company.
- ISO 9001: This international standard attests to the effectiveness of Ercopac’s quality management system. The certification ensures that all business processes are structured to best meet customer needs while maintaining a consistent level of excellence.
- ISO 14001: This certification emphasizes Ercopac’s commitment to responsible environmental management. The standard certifies that the company adopts operating practices designed to reduce its environmental impact by promoting a sustainable approach at every stage of production.
These certifications are not just formal recognition, but reflect a corporate philosophy that focuses on quality, efficiency and sustainability. For customers, choosing Ercopac means relying on a partner that combines technological innovation and respect for the environment, actively contributing to a more responsible production chain.
ISO 9001: This international standard attests to the effectiveness of Ercopac’s quality management system. The certification ensures that all business processes are structured to best meet customer needs while maintaining a consistent level of excellence.
ISO 14001: This certification emphasizes Ercopac’s commitment to responsible environmental management. The standard certifies that the company adopts operating practices designed to reduce its environmental impact by promoting a sustainable approach at every stage of production.
