Canada-based Eco Entreprises Quebec (EEQ) has announced the launch of the Voluntary Code for the Optimization of Containers, Packaging and Printed Matter intended for companies targeted by the curbside recycling compensation plan.
The move is believed to be Canadian industry's first voluntary initiative developed in cooperation with contributing companies and ecodesign experts.
The Voluntary Code uses a framework approach based on the life cycle of the packaged product and areas for action that focus on reduction at the source, ecodesign and recyclability.
Seven strategies have been proposed to guide companies in developing their optimization initiative like life cycle thinking, adopting responsible procurement criteria, improving the packaging/product ratio, designing for transport, improving the usage scenario, improving recyclability and communications.
The program uses a progressive, two-phase approach to packaging optimization, where the first phase addresses specific business sectors including Food and Health & Beauty sectors, which produce 80% of packaged products marketed in Quebec.
By 2015, all business sectors targeted by the compensation plan will be covered by the Voluntary Code, therefore providing all companies with a framework to optimize their containers, packaging and printed matter.
