Unboxing Your Packaging

INTRODUCTION

Welcome, listeners, to another illuminating episode of our 'Certifications Spotlight: Truths & Traps' series! Today, we delve into the realm of ISTA certification, where packaging prowess meets transportation safety.

Join us, as I unravel the intricacies with our experienced guest, Victor Huart from Metropack. With a Ph.D. in packaging engineering and a decade-long tenure in an ISTA-certified laboratory, Victor brings unparalleled expertise.

• We kick off by tracing ISTA's roots from its post-WWII inception to its global prominence today.
• Yet, what sets ISTA apart? It's not just about certification; it's about fostering a community committed to enhancing testing practices.
• But, as we explore its strengths, we can't ignore potential criticisms. Is ISTA's legitimacy ever questioned?
• And what does the future hold? Victor predicts a surge in transportation testing's importance amidst eco-design demands.

So, whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious enthusiast, join us as we unlock the secrets behind ISTA certification and discover how it safeguards your products on their journey from A to B.

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• Check the standards compliance for FDA https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfstandards/search.cfm
• ISTA tests procedures: https://ista.org/test_procedures.php
• Ista certification packaging: https://ista.org/getting_started_with_design.php#row-2
• Suggested previous episode: Episode #20: “How to grow your compostable packaging? Explore the wonder of mycelium!” with Meghan Olson of Ecovative Design: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep20-compostable-mycelium-mushroom-design

WHERE TO FIND VICTOR HUART AND METROPACK?

• His LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-huart-phd/
• The Metropack website for more information https://www.metropack.fr/ and in EN https://www.metropack.eu/

ABOUT VICTOR HUART FROM METROPACK

Victor HUART is a Packaging Engineer, he graduated from ESIReims (ex ESIEC) in 2012, and has a PhD in Process Engineering, since 2016, specialized in transport safety and industrial risk.

During his research, Victor worked, among others, on the estimation of fatigue damage by spectral methods related to transport vibrations, and on the reduction of simulation time in the laboratory.

In 2015, he was awarded the IAPRI (International Association of Packaging Research Institute) Most Promising Research Award.

Today, he is in charge of the Research and Development department for the Metropack laboratory. He carries out scientific audits of distribution circuits and works with a team of PhD students on new methods of analysis and simulation of the physical and climatic constraints of said circuits.In parallel to his activity in lab, Victor is a publication referee in scientific journals such as Packaging Technology and Science, and a member of the AFNOR (Association Française de Normalisation) packaging commission.

TO GO FURTHER: 

• Explore our website Look4Loops; 
• Sign up for our online course "Develop circular packaging solutions"; 
• Send your feedback or suggestions to the LinkedIn of your host Colienne Regout.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

Even my children know what compost is! But how do you determine what material goes into home and industrial compost? Can you explain what makes the difference and why it is important not to mix them up? What are the criteria to meet for biodegradation, disintegration, ecotoxicity and chemical characteristics?

Love-Ese Chile answers those questions in the 8th audio clip of the 'Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps' series. She unravels the mysteries behind the OK Compost Certifications. As usual, let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• their meaning,
• their application,
• their grey areas,
• and their pros and cons.

Once again, you will feel the passion of my guest! Composting is one of those apparently simple subjects that leads to tireless conversation with Ese. In the context of April as Earth Month, this episode gives you the perfect opportunity to raise awareness on what we can and can’t bring back safely to the soil.

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• TUV Austria Okcertification webpage: https://www.tuv-at.be/okcert/
• The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) Certification, the North America’s leading authority on compostable products & packaging:  https://bpiworld.org/
• Episode #04: “How to consider biodegradation for your packaging?” with Love-Ese Chile: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep04-consider-biodegradation

WHERE TO FIND LOVE-ESE CHILE and HER COMPANY?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/love-ese-chile/
• Regenerative Waste Labs website: https://www.regenwastelabs.com/

ABOUT LOVE-ESE CHILE from REGENERATIVE WASTE LABS

Dr. Love-Ese Chile is Managing Owner of circular waste research and consulting firm Regenerative Waste Labs. With her scientific background, Love-Ese has taken her expertise into the industry and is passionate about sharing her knowledge and empowering others. Recently named a 2024 Clean50 Emerging Leader, Love-Ese leads a team at the intersection of bioproducts, circular economy policy and organic waste recovery. She engages in projects to implement initiatives that add value to businesses and organizations that generate large volumes of organic waste. Love-Ese has worked with all levels of government, NGOs and businesses to facilitate action that drives the use and recovery of circular bioproducts within the Canadian economy.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me.

INTRODUCTION

You've likely encountered a Möbius loop logo on the back of packaging. But do you know what it signifies in terms of recycling and material information?

This logo is the focus of our 54th episode, closely connected to the two preceding episodes. Together, they form a trio of audio clips under the 'Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps' series, for which Anne-Laure has graciously joined us multiple times on the podcast. As usual, let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

Remember to also listen to episode 52 about the Green Dot (Point Vert) and episode 53 about the Triman logo!

HERE ARE SOME RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• ISO 14021:2016 Environmental labels and declarations. Self-declared environmental claims (Type II environmental labelling): https://www.iso.org/standard/66652.html
• Episode #53: “[Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 6] The Triman Logo” with Anne-Laure Bulliffon of Albumine: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep53-certifications-review-triman-logo-sorting-recycling-information-communication
• Episode #52: “[Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 5] The Green Dot [Point Vert]” with Anne-Laure Bulliffon of Albumine: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep52-certifications-review-green-dot-point-vert-logo-epr-ppwr-recycling-contribution
• To learn about what self-declaration claims are: Listen to episode #47: “[Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 1] Introduction: The 3 Types of Environmental Declarations” with Anne-Laure Bulliffon of Albumine: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep47-certifications-review-environmental-declarations-iso-eco-labels-communication
• Episode #35: “[Wild Waste Audio Clip 2] The Aluminium” with Lise Nicolas and Enzo Muttini of M. & Mme Recyclage: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep35-wild-waste-material-recycling-aluminium
• Episode #33: “[Wild Waste Audio Clip 1] The Glass” with Lise Nicolas and Enzo Muttini of M. & Mme Recyclage: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep33-wild-waste-material-recycling-glass
• Episode #43: “[Wild Waste Audio Clip 6] Paper & Cardboard” with Lise Nicolas and Enzo Muttini of M. & Mme Recyclage: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep43-wild-waste-material-recycling-paper-carboard
• 2 articles on the fact that the European Parliament and European Council have reached a provisional agreement on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR): “EU negotiators reach provisional agreement on PPWR” by EUROPEN: https://www.europen-packaging.eu/news/eu-negotiators-reach-provisional-agreement-on-ppwr/, and “PPWR deal limits single-use plastics, mandates DRS, and enables consumer reuse” by Packaging Europe: https://packagingeurope.com/news/ppwr-deal-limits-single-use-plastics-mandates-drs-and-enables-consumer-reuse/11059.article  

WHERE TO FIND ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albulliffon/   
• Albumine, in France: https://albumine.fr/  
• Profil’Pack, in Canada: https://profilpackaging.com/  

ABOUT ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON FROM ALBUMINE

As an entrepreneur committed to  ecological change, Anne-Laure founded PROFIL'PACK in Montreal in 2013  and ALBUMINE in Chambéry, France, in 2020.

On both sides of the Atlantic, the two  agencies share a common mission: to enable food and cosmetics  manufacturers to rethink their packaging systems in order to include  their products in the virtuous circle of the circular economy, to reduce  waste and ecological impacts.

Thanks to of her dual Franco-Quebec  culture, she is keen to put her expertise and network of  multidisciplinary collaborators in Canada and France to good use by  creating a bridge of resources and innovation between the two countries.  Anne-Laure is convinced that collective intelligence and access to  innovation are the keys to a successful ecological transition.

Anne-Laure graduated from ESIREIMS in  2005 with a master's degree in packaging engineering. She specialized in  change management and environmental diagnostic tools (LCA, carbon  footprint,...) and circular economy at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure  des Arts & Métiers in 2020.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

What could possibly mean this logo featuring a little figure and arrows going against the clock's hands? What does it conjure up for you? Do we really need more pictos around information about sorting? What if I told you that it is actually mandatory, for now? 

Anne-Laure is back on the airwaves of this podcast to delve into the enigma of the 'Triman' logo in this 6th audio clip of the “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps” series. Let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

Follow us: After the Green Dot (Point Vert) in the previous episode, Anne-Laure will be back for the next one to dive into the Moebius logo!

HERE ARE SOME RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• Episode #52: [Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 5] The Green Dot [Point Vert] with Anne-Laure Bulliffon of Albumine: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep52-certifications-review-green-dot-point-vert-logo-epr-ppwr-recycling-contribution
• Episode #47: [Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 1] Introduction: The 3 Types of Environmental Declarations with Anne-Laure Bulliffon of Albumine: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep47-certifications-review-environmental-declarations-iso-eco-labels-communication
• Episode #42: Better communicate with obvious recycling labels with Alejandra Laclette of PlanetArk: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep42-recycling-label-bin-campaigns-communication
• The obligation to display TRIMAN signage and information on sorting procedures (application of article L. 541-9-3 of the Environment Code) in French >>  “FAQ et frises sur le Triman et l'information précisant les modalités de tri” (https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/FAQ%20Triman%20et%20frises.pdf < https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/cadre-general-des-filieres-responsabilite-elargie-des-producteurs) 
• The switch from the Green Dot (Point Vert) to the Triman logo explained by the French Ministries Ecology and Territories in a short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laENxN2qho0&t=1s “Triman: pour trier les emballages simplement” 
• Sorting instructions (including the Triman logo) provided in English by Leko: https://www.leko-organisme.fr/en/les-consignes-de-tri-pour-les-citoyens/
• Information provided in French by Citeo: https://www.citeo.com/le-mag/une-nouvelle-info-tri-harmonisee-pour-faciliter-le-geste-de-tri-des-emballages-et-papiers
• Information in English: “Triman logo - EU Commission opens an infringement procedure for French environmental labelling rules” (16 feb 2023): https://www.foodlaw.info/post/triman-logo-infringement-procedure-for-french-environmental-labelling-rules  
• Information in French “Triman : la commission européenne ouvre un procédure d'infraction contre la France” (Wednesday February 15th, 2023): https://blog.gossement-avocats.com/blog/environnement/triman-la-commission-europeenne-ouvre-un-procedure-d-infraction-au-droit-de-l-union-europeenne-contre-la-france
• Short article in French “Triman, le super-héros du tri empêtré”: https://www.usinenouvelle.com/article/triman-le-super-heros-du-tri-empetre.N2101676

WHERE TO FIND ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albulliffon/   
• Albumine, in France: https://albumine.fr/  
• Profil’Pack, in Canada: https://profilpackaging.com/  

ABOUT ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON FROM ALBUMINE

As an entrepreneur committed to  ecological change, Anne-Laure founded PROFIL'PACK in Montreal in 2013  and ALBUMINE in Chambéry, France, in 2020.

On both sides of the Atlantic, the two  agencies share a common mission: to enable food and cosmetics  manufacturers to rethink their packaging systems in order to include  their products in the virtuous circle of the circular economy, to reduce  waste and ecological impacts.

Thanks to of her dual Franco-Quebec  culture, she is keen to put her expertise and network of  multidisciplinary collaborators in Canada and France to good use by  creating a bridge of resources and innovation between the two countries.  Anne-Laure is convinced that collective intelligence and access to  innovation are the keys to a successful ecological transition.

Anne-Laure graduated from ESIREIMS in  2005 with a master's degree in packaging engineering. She specialized in  change management and environmental diagnostic tools (LCA, carbon  footprint,...) and circular economy at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure  des Arts & Métiers in 2020.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever been skeptical about a green logo? This one won't help you much; it's a gem in its own right!

Luckily, we have Anne-Laure to clear things up, in just a few minutes, what you need to remember about it! Little hints: it has something to do with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, formerly PPWD, for Directive).

The “Green Dot” is the 5th audio clip of the “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps” series. This episode is very short and incisive. However, like the others, it unravels the mysteries behind one of the logos you find on the packaging. Let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

Spoiler alert: Anne-Laure will be back for the next two episodes, where we'll dive into the Triman logo and the Möbius logo, one after the other!

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• The European Directive 94/62/EC: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/thinktank/en/document/EPRS_BRI(2022)734698
• EPR organisms mentioned:
  • in France, there are 2 organisms: Leko and Citeo.
  • in Quebec, you have Éco Entreprises Québec and, in the rest of Canada, you will find Multi-Material Stewardship Western or Circular Materials.

WHERE TO FIND ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albulliffon/
• Albumine, in France: https://albumine.fr/
• Profil’Pack, in Canada: https://profilpackaging.com/

ABOUT ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON FROM ALBUMINE

As an entrepreneur committed to  ecological change, Anne-Laure founded PROFIL'PACK in Montreal in 2013  and ALBUMINE in Chambéry, France, in 2020.

On both sides of the Atlantic, the two  agencies share a common mission: to enable food and cosmetics  manufacturers to rethink their packaging systems in order to include  their products in the virtuous circle of the circular economy, to reduce  waste and ecological impacts.

Thanks to of her dual Franco-Quebec  culture, she is keen to put her expertise and network of  multidisciplinary collaborators in Canada and France to good use by  creating a bridge of resources and innovation between the two countries.  Anne-Laure is convinced that collective intelligence and access to  innovation are the keys to a successful ecological transition.

Anne-Laure graduated from ESIREIMS in  2005 with a master's degree in packaging engineering. She specialized in  change management and environmental diagnostic tools (LCA, carbon  footprint,...) and circular economy at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure  des Arts & Métiers in 2020.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me.

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever wondered how to determine if a bottle is truly reusable? And if it is, what steps need to be taken both upstream and downstream to transform this concept into a practical reality? The significance of a Reuse logo extends beyond just the consumer – it holds relevance for producers, stores, collectors, and washing companies alike. Join us in exploring the reasons behind the necessity of a Reuse logo.

The “Reuse logo for bottles and more” is the 4th audio clip of the “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps” series. Like the others, it unravels the mysteries behind one of the logos you find on the packaging. Let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

Spoiler alert: this one is still a young logo and fairly positive!

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• The website of Réseau Vrac et Réemploi (fusion between Réseau Vrac and Réseau Consigne): https://reseauvracetreemploi.org/  
• The website of ALPES CONSIGNE : https://alpesconsigne.fr/  
• The source to find members of France Consigne and the map of this national association which allows you to know where to return containers identified as reusable thanks to the logo: https://franceconsigne.fr/  
• The sources to find shops that collect reusable packages: https://www.reseauconsigne.com/cartographie/   
• The communication agency Atelier Kaboom: https://atelier-kaboom.com/   
• Previous episodes mentioned:
  • Episode 46: “Water-free tablets and reusable bottles: Rethinking product and packaging pairing” with Frédérique Drouin of Myni: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep46-non-toxic-products-water-free-tablet-reusable-bottles  
  • Episode 10: “A low-tech deposit system to expand zero-waste food businesses” with Marie Jemine of L’Empoteuse: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep10-low-tech-deposit
  • Episode 8: “Ready to rock with zero-waste office canteens?” with Jérémie Lambin of Freddy met Curry: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep08-zero-waste-office-canteens    
  • Episode 50: “From single-use to reuse: Shaping the era of refillable packaging, starting with personal care products” with Jo-Anne Chidley of Beauty Kitchen and Reposit: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep50-single-use-reuse-refill-returns-service-cosmetics   
  • Episode 36: The bulk: How to free products and consumers from the packaging? with Célia Rennesson of Réseau Vrac & Elsa Bortuzzo of Yokoumi: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep36-bulk-network-packaging-free-products-consumers   
• Le Fourgon (a delivery system of returned drinks at home): https://www.lefourgon.com/   
• The website of the New European Reuse Alliance (New ERA):  https://www.newreusealliance.eu/  
• The AGEC law: La loi anti-gaspillage pour une économie circulaire: https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/loi-anti-gaspillage-economie-circulaire   
• LEKO: https://www.leko-organisme.fr/  
• CITEO: https://www.citeo.com/   
• The old 5 stars bottles for reuse: https://www.luckyfind.fr/annonces/122136-lot-12-bouteilles-a-etoile-annees-650-70  
• Article about Coca-Cola choices (Cash investigation from 2018): https://www.zerowastefrance.org/cash-investigation-sur-le-plastique-notre-decryptage/    

WHERE TO FIND CECILE FORGUE?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Cécile-forgue-763a6b69/

ABOUT Cécile Forgue from ALPES CONSIGNE

With her academic background as an engineer and her personal goal to reduce packaging waste, Cécile Forgue decided in 2019 to work on developing a reuse system, convinced that glass packaging can have a much better impact on the environment than currently with the recycling system they have in France. Therefore she joined a citizen movement around this topic and co-founded ALPES CONSIGNE in 2020. She is now really glad to see the reuse system grow and to notice that even eco-organisms seem to get into working order to make reuse a reality and the norms for the upcoming years. Packaging reuse has become a reality in the past few years in France and has beautiful days forward.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

Imagine if competitive brands collectively adopted multi-use and standardized packaging.

Imagine products exclusively housed in reusable packaging displayed on every retailer's shelf.

Now, envision a seamless system where customers can return these refillable containers, ensuring their circulation for many years to come!

Well, this is already happening with pioneers like Jo-Anne Chidley, the co-founder of Beauty Kitchen, a sustainable, natural personal care brand, and Reposit, a packaging-as-a-service platform. 

She shares a wealth of advice drawn from her experience in this episode! Get ready to learn about:

• How certifications like Cradle-to-Cradle and B-Corp serve as excellent guidelines for improvement (as her company broke records in the European cosmetic industry).
• The significance of values such as partnerships, collaborations, and community in fortifying a reuse business model.
• The paramount importance of modularity in constructing long-term, viable solutions (illustrated using the example of washing infrastructure).
• Measurements to better disrupt single-use and plastic packaging, with some key environmental and sales impacts!

I admire how Jo is defeating preconceived ideas, and how she is opening revolutionary horizons for reuse!

Here's my two cents if you get the chance to meet her: Don’t say no to Jo! Instead, inquire "How?" and be ready to roll up your sleeves!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Jo answers the question formulated in Episode 34: “Designing plastic free: Why and what does it take?” with Sian Sutherland of A Plastic Planet: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep34-plastic-free-material-design-campaigns-platform  
• If you want to know more about the Bulk Collective concept, listen to episode 36: “The bulk: How to free products and consumers from the packaging?” with Célia Rennesson of Réseau Vrac & Elsa Bortuzzo of Yokoumi: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep36-bulk-network-packaging-free-products-consumers
• Jo recommends reading 
  • Iain Banks, a Scottish sci-fi author.
  • the Cradle to Cradle books
  • the B Corp Handbook

WHERE TO FIND JO-ANNE CHIDLEY AND HER COMPANIES?

• The Reposit website: https://reposit.world/   
• The Beauty Kitchen website: https://beautykitchen.co.uk/   
• Jo-Anne Chidley LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jochidley/

ABOUT JO-ANNE CHIDLEY FROM BEAUTY KITCHEN AND REPOSIT

Jo Chidley is a circular economy expert, chemist, herbal botanist, and co-founder of Beauty Kitchen and Reposit, the highest scoring B Corp in the UK beauty industry and the pioneering Packaging as a service for consumer products. Founded in 2014, Jo has set out to change the face of the beauty industry by creating the most effective, natural, and sustainable beauty products in the world, alongside changing the way we see our packaging for beauty and beyond.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

Do you know where the paper and wood you use come from? What concrete guarantees do you have that a certified entity is not harming endangered species? What are the standards and the governance driving this certification body? 

In this episode, Peter Wood lays out big pieces of answers on the table with a focus, this time, on the #PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification).

It is the logical sequel to episode 48 devoted to FSC certification. They are both part of a series of “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps” audio clips. They will all unravel the mysteries behind the logos, certifications, and declarations you find on packaging. Let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• Episode 48: [Certifications Spotlight Audio Clip 2] FSC, Forest Stewardship Council with Peter Wood of UBC as well: https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep48-certifications-review-fsc-forests-logging-wood-paper   
• An article that explains the problematic situation about logging in endangered species habitat: “B.C. allows logging in critical habitat of one of the province’s sole recovering caribou herds” https://thenarwhal.ca/bc-caribou-habitat-wood-river-basin/   
• Peter Wood mentioned wording from the (Canadian Standard Association) CSA’s SFM standards that get to the core of the problem, that the “standards” are ultimately up to the company. The actual wording of this is as follows (under “Assessing values, objectives, indicators, and targets”, page 72): “Management experience might show that previous targets were either easily met (resulting in more rigorous objectives) or impossible to meet (necessitating more realistic goals)”.
• Let’s note that we have learned that since Ecojustice launched the legal challenge, the CSA has decided to close this certification system. Teal Jones, the logging company that is facing the biggest act of civil disobedience in Canadian history, with more than 1,000 people arrested, is certified to CSA, and just posted this news on their website, indicating what is happening: https://tealjones.com/certifications   
• Here is the website of the Competition Bureau Canada, a consumer fraud body that can help prevent false claims: https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/competition-bureau-canada/en   
• An article about the Ecojustice legal challenge against the SFI: “Canada’s largest sustainable forestry program [SFI] accused of greenwashing”: https://biv.com/article/2022/12/canadas-largest-sustainable-forestry-program-accused-greenwashing  
• For the real keeners, the full legal complaint can be viewed here: https://ecojustice.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SFI-CB-Complaint-Final.pdf  
• The PEFC website: https://pefc.org/     

WHERE TO FIND PETER WOOD?

• His LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-wood-66811128/   

ABOUT PETER WOOD FROM UBC

Peter has been working on issues related to forests and sustainability for over twenty years now, both within Canada and his home province of British Columbia, as well as overseas, in places like the Congo Basin and Borneo. He is currently a lecturer and coordinator with the Master of International Forestry Program at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

If I say: “logging, wood, and paper”? Would Ancient Forests and Indigenous People's rights come to your mind?

Do you know if and how far the Forest Stewardship Council is acting in protecting that? I am talking about the FSC certification that you can find on several packaging and more.

Off we go! It is time to go over it with a fine-tooth comb with our enthralling guest, Peter Wood. 

FSC is the first of a series of “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps” audio clips. They will all unravel the mysteries behind the logos, certifications, and declarations you find on packaging. Let’s equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher:

• its meaning,
• its application,
• its grey areas,
• and its pros and cons.

HERE ARE THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCES 

• The PhD of Peter Wood that evaluates the changes that companies have to make in order to meet FSC certification: https://tspace.library.utoronto.ca/bitstream/1807/17844/1/Wood_Peter_J_200906_PhD_thesis.pdf
• The criteria for FSC in BC merged with the Canada-wide standard: https://connect.fsc.org/document-centre/documents/resource/181
• The very interesting expose: Alecci, Scilla. 2023. How auditing giant KPMG became a global sustainability leader while serving companies accused of forest destruction. https://www.icij.org/investigations/deforestation-inc/audit-firms-kpmg-environmental-sustainability-logging/
• Motion 65, the resolution adopted by the General Assembly of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in September 2014: https://www.greenpeace.org/canada/en/story/644/protecting-intact-forests-fscs-motion-65-getting-the-facts-straight/
• The book chapter of Peter Wood about the possible restriction of stopping logging and intact forest landscape: Nikolakis, W., & Wood, P. (2022). INTACT FOREST LANDSCAPES AND THE FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL. The Role of Business in Global Sustainability Transformations, 148. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/364148308_Intact_Forest_Landscapes_and_the_Forest_Stewardship_Council
• The 2 episodes in our Unboxing Your Packaging podcast with Canopy: Episode #32 with Valerie Langer, “Packaging: the best starting point for more circular solutions and products?” (https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep32-europe-canada-regulations-circular-solutions-collaborations) & Episode #22 with Lee-Ann Unger, “How to envision a sustainable future for the paper packaging supply chain?” (https://www.look4loops.com/packaging-podcast/ep22-sustainable-paper-supply-chain-protecting-forests)
• A highlighting YouTube video on the channel of the Endangered Ecosystems Alliance with Ken Wu, “Old-Growth Forests vs. Second-Growth Plantations - The Differences”:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tp3iL72wy4A&t=4s
• Another video with the same subject published on the Ancient Forest Alliance Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ancientforestalliance/videos/1852036138224298/?extid=CL-UNK-UNK-UNK-AN_GK0T-GK1C&mibextid=NnVzG8 

WHERE TO FIND PETER WOOD?

• His LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-wood-66811128/ 

ABOUT PETER WOOD FROM UBC

Peter has been working on issues related to forests and sustainability for over twenty years now, both within Canada and his home province of British Columbia, as well as overseas, in places like the Congo Basin and Borneo. He is currently a lecturer and coordinator with the Master of International Forestry Program at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me. 

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever wondered if the environmental claims or logos on your packaging were completely legit and adequate? Did you dive into it?

Welcome to our new series: “Certifications Spotlight: Truths and Traps”! 

We'll unravel the mysteries behind the logos, certifications, and declarations you find on packaging. 

• What do they really mean? 
• When and where are they applied? 
• Do they sometimes conceal key information? 

We'll weigh their pros and cons and explore the added value for everyone in the value chain, including end consumers.

This series is the result of collaborations with experts who joined us with enthusiasm. 

Whether you're in the packaging or packaged goods industry, these episodes aim to equip you with knowledge and critical thinking to decipher what is too often put forward as foolproof guarantees.

Today, as an introduction to many audio clips to come – with a focus on a certification or a logo in particular –, I invited Anne-Laure Bulliffon to globally explain 

• the communication challenges of packaging environmental declarations, 
• their different types, 
• and what you can or can NOT say around them.

HERE IS THE RECOMMENDED RESOURCE 

• The website of the International Organization for Standardization, where it publishes International Standards: https://www.iso.org/standards.html.  

WHERE TO FIND ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON?

• Her LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albulliffon/
• Albumine, in France: https://albumine.fr/ 
• Profil’Pack, in Canada: https://profilpackaging.com/ 

ABOUT ANNE-LAURE BULLIFFON FROM ALBUMINE

As an entrepreneur committed to  ecological change, Anne-Laure founded PROFIL'PACK in Montreal in 2013  and ALBUMINE in Chambéry, France, in 2020.

On both sides of the Atlantic, the two  agencies share a common mission: to enable food and cosmeticsmanufacturers to rethink their packaging systems in order to include  their products in the virtuous circle of the circular economy, to reduce  waste and ecological impacts.

Thanks to of her dual Franco-Quebec  culture, she is keen to put her expertise and network ofmultidisciplinary collaborators in Canada and France to good use by  creating a bridge of resources and innovation between the two countries.  Anne-Laure is convinced that collective intelligence and access to  innovation are the keys to a successful ecological transition.

Anne-Laure graduated from ESIREIMS in  2005 with a master's degree in packaging engineering. She specialized in  change management and environmental diagnostic tools (LCA, carbonfootprint,...) and circular economy at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure  des Arts & Métiers in 2020.

PODCAST MUSIC

Special thanks to Joachim Regout who made the jingle. Have a look at his work here. 

I am happy to bring a sample of our strong bonds on these sound waves. Since I was a child, he made me discover a wide range of music of all kinds. I am also delighted he is a nature lover and shares the Look4Loops 'out of the box philosophy'. He is an inspiring source of creativity for me.