Understanding the Goal of Becoming Packaging Neutral
Packaging neutral means implementing a process that establishes durable packaging using recycled materials while employing environmentally friendly practices. It may include reusing packaging materials or the closed-loop recycling process that would be disposed of in landfills by consumers, companies, distributors, or suppliers. Based on the sustainable packaging organization, many things aid in creating neutral packaging (Sustainability, 2023). Hence, it implies that, through reusing, recycling, or even composting, Walmart will attempt to recoup as much material as was employed in the packaging that flows via its outlets.
Walmart’s Challenges in Becoming Packaging Neutral
The main challenge Walmart faces is using a neutral package, which stems from the contributions from associated but external entities that comprise consumers and the connections along its supply chain. The company does not operate with 100 percent vertical integration in its supply chain; hence, it should source products responsibly while executing contractual clauses specifying the compulsory utilization of neutral packaging.
In addition, as stated on its website, the company faces the challenge of the lack of infrastructure that promotes recycling and reusing. The company is struggling to find firms that need to go green (Sustainability, 2023). This may be because of the costs of transforming the corporation’s equipment into more environmentally friendly and sustainable technology.
Evaluating Walmart’s Deli Pizza Box for Neutrality
I believe Walmart’s Deli Pizza Box is packaging neutral and is the right move towards sustainability. The company’s private brand team discovered a creative and innovative means to address the old cardboard and converted it into new packaging. The pizza box fulfills 100% of the packaging-neutral model because all the cardboard is recycled and reused. In addition, the company is utilizing steam to power one of the plants, which is the best way to save on pollutants and energy costs.
The company noted that it managed to reduce its power utilization by 40 percent, and there is still room for enhancement (Walmart, 2023). This step is the right move, and it will reduce a lot of greenhouse gas emissions associated with Walmart. If the company leads the way and has all of its packages employed by this material and sets an example for other firms, then more firms may be ready to follow. It will lead to a drastic decrease in greenhouse gases emitted into the air. In addition, it will help reduce costs for firms that are changing into environmentally friendly firms.
References
Sustainability (2023). Walmart. Web.
WalMart. (2023). Secret life of Walmart’s deli pizza box [Video]. YouTube. Web.