About
Although glass bottles remain the predominant packaging format for wine, alternative options like bag-in-box, metal cans, and cardboard bottles are emerging. However, the sustainability benefits and challenges of these alternatives are not always clear, leading to confusion and questionable claims in the market. SWR’s Packaging Choice Framework will evaluate not only the environmental impact but also financial, practical, and consumer considerations, enabling companies to make informed packaging choices that align with their sustainability goals. The framework will cover all aspects of packaging, including closures, labels, foils, and more, and will also help facilitate transparent communication with consumers, regulators, and stakeholders.
Why it matters
While some formats have lower carbon footprints than glass, they may come with other sustainability concerns. Moreover, there are financial, food waste, health and practical considerations which need to be factored in.
Additionally, local context—such as consumer preferences, recycling rates, and regulatory environments—plays a critical role in packaging decisions. For example, certain countries lack the infrastructure to properly recycle bag-in-box packaging, which limits the effectiveness of this option despite its lower carbon footprint.
With increasing pressure from regulators, particularly around extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, the industry must have clear, transparent, and evidence-based insights to guide its packaging decisions. Without this clarity, the sector risks perpetuating unsustainable practices and misleading claims about the benefits of certain formats.
Our goal
The SWR aims to provide the wine industry with a clear and balanced view of the environmental, financial, and practical implications of different packaging formats. Our goal is to create an evidence-based tool that empowers companies to make informed, sustainable decisions while considering consumer perceptions, recycling rates, cost implications, and packaging availability.
Our approach
- Comprehensive Research: We will synthesise existing research from SWR members and conduct a thorough review of academic and industry literature to establish a robust evidence base.
- Stakeholder Engagement: We will collaborate with industry stakeholders, including packaging suppliers, producers, and retailers, to gather insights and feedback that shape the framework.
- Evaluation of Packaging Formats: The framework will assess the sustainability profiles of various packaging formats, including glass, plastic, and alternative materials, along with associated components like closures, labels, and foils.
- Practical Tools: We will provide practical tools and guidelines to help members evaluate the trade-offs between different formats, including factors like carbon footprint, recyclability, cost, and consumer acceptance.
Benefits to supporters
Clear insights
into the sustainability strengths and challenges of each packaging format, empowering evidence-based decision making.
Priority access to findings
from the framework to support strategic planning.
Public recognition
in all communications as leaders in promoting transparency and clarity in wine packaging.
Engagement and input
into the research process, allowing supporters to shape the framework.
Direct cost savings
by optimizing liabilities under extended producer responsibility legislation (EPR).
Looking ahead
SWR will develop our Packaging Choice Framework over the coming months, beginning with stakeholder consultations and research into current packaging practices. The framework will be continuously updated to reflect new developments, ensuring that members have access to the latest insights and data.
Take action
Interested in taking part? Learn more about our work on packaging and join us today by contacting info@swroundtable.org.
