Elopak has released the results of a life cycle assessment (LCA) study, conducted by Anthesis, which demonstrates that its D-PAK cartons significantly outperform low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic pouches as refill packaging for laundry detergent in the EU market.
The study evaluated the environmental impact of Elopak’s D-PAK cartons compared to LDPE pouches, highlighting superior performance in key areas such as global warming, carbon dioxide footprint, resource scarcity, and plastic reduction.
The findings showed that D-PAK cartons used as refill packs result in a 24% lower global warming impact than a one-litre LDPE pouch, increasing to 28% for a 1.8-litre pouch.
Additionally, the cartons achieved a 33% lower resource scarcity impact for a one-litre pouch, rising to 38% for a 1.8l pouch.
Elopak’s D-PAK cartons also use 44% less plastic than LDPE pouches, containing just 9.0g of plastic compared to 20.1g in a pouch and 76.7g in an average polypropylene-based bottle.
The move builds on previous LCA studies such as a 2020 meta-analysis by the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment, which found beverage cartons to have a carbon footprint of 83g carbon dioxide (CO₂) per litre compared to 156g CO₂ per litre for polyethylene terephthalate bottles, 430g CO₂ per litre for single-use glass bottles, and 100g CO₂ per litre for reusable glass bottles.
Since relaunching the D-PAK carton in 2021, Elopak has partnered with brands such as Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Omo, and Paperdent to deliver carton-based packaging for products such as laundry detergent, fabric softener, mouthwash, and wiper fluid.
A 2024 Elopak consumer survey in the UK and Germany further underscored demand for carton refills, with 64% of respondents open to purchasing fabric softener in cartons and 59% interested in floor cleaner in carton refill packs.
Following the launch of its ‘Repackaging tomorrow’ strategy in September 2024, Elopak is focused on expanding its fibre-based packaging solutions into new markets and product segments, supporting brands and consumers in reducing reliance on plastics.
Elopak sustainability senior director Emilie Olderskog said: “We are delighted to be able to share these findings, which show that Elopak cartons are a significantly more sustainable packaging solution for laundry detergent than common refill alternatives like pouches.
“At Elopak we are committed to delivering more sustainable packaging options for our customers and their consumers.
“This LCA now demonstrates that by choosing fibre-based cartons, home and personal care brands can offer shoppers similar sustainability advantages as Elopak customers in the food and drink sector.”
