Oct 18 2010
IFCO SYSTEMS is pleased to announce that its reusable plastic containers (RPCs) have won the Responsible Packaging Award for ecologically and socially responsible packaging innovation.
IFCO's RPCs are used primarily for the transport of fresh produce from grower to retailer, and are particularly compatible with organic produce as they are Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) Listed© and protect produce better than traditional packaging, with dramatically reduced environmental impact.
"Growers and retailers of organic produce have high expectations when it comes to the handling and shipment of top-quality products," said Fred Heptinstall, President and General Manager of IFCO's RPC Management Services Division. "They are increasingly demanding sustainable-packaging solutions, and IFCO delivers."
The Responsible Packaging Awards judging committee used a three-part set of criteria to evaluate nominees, including commitment to transparency, extended producer responsibility, and ecological systems design principles. Each package was rated based on an assessment of its environmental and social impact throughout the product lifecycle.
IFCO received the award yesterday during Natural Products Expo East and All Things Organic at the Boston Convention Center. The awards recognize industry achievements and innovations in environmentally responsible packaging including materials reduction and the use of 100% recycled PET & HDPE, 100% post-consumer recycled, non-GMO, compostable, regional, reusable, refillable, returnable, and Forest Stewardship Council Certified content.