Trivium Packaging, led by Chief Sustainability Officer Jenny Wassenaar, exemplifies a company actively integrating sustainability into its operational framework.
The following insights from Wassenaar provide an overview of Trivium’s approaches and the challenges they face in the packaging industry.
Implementing circular economy practices
Trivium has gained recognition from notable sustainability organizations, which reflects its ongoing commitment to environmental standards.
Jenny Wassenaar explains, “Our work has been recognised by some of the world-leading sustainability validations agencies, including receiving Ecovadis Platinum status for the third consecutive year, and being announced as the first metal packaging company globally to make it to the CDP A-List for the Carbon Disclosure Project on Climate.”
A key element of their strategy involves collaboration with recycling initiatives to establish a more circular economy.
Wassenaar details one such collaboration: “Our Argentina plant has been working with Creando Conciencia, an Urban Recyclers Organisation.”
This effort focuses on the collection and recycling of aerosol aluminium cans, which are then reused in new products. Additionally, the placement of their plant next to the supplier Aluar is strategic.
“This allows us to receive the liquid aluminium in its true form, significantly reducing carbon emissions and saving energy while also improving efficiencies for Trivium’s teams,” she states.
Eco-Design Strategy
Trivium’s ‘Eco-Design’ strategy is central to their sustainable development approach. It involves rigorous scrutiny of new packaging solutions against environmental standards.
Wassenaar clarifies, “Eco-Design… requires all our new packaging solutions to be validated against a criteria of nine environmental standards.” This process is designed to ensure that their products are not only effective but also sustainable.
The rationale behind this strategy is articulated by Wassenaar: “Ensuring our products contribute to a sustainable future is at the heart of everything we do.” This statement underscores the importance of sustainability in their product development lifecycle.
Cultivating sustainability within corporate culture
Wassenaar likens her role in fostering a sustainable corporate culture to that of a conductor who ensures that each part of the company aligns with their sustainability goals.
“I like to compare my role to that of a conductor in front of an orchestra,” she describes, suggesting a hands-on approach to integrating sustainability into every aspect of the company’s operations.
Trivium also participates in global initiatives such as the Science Based Targets and the UN Global Compact to foster cross-industry collaboration.
“Being connected with like-minded companies on the same trajectory really is motivating as we learn from each other and inspire each other to stretch the perceived limits,” Wassenaar comments on the value of these partnerships.
A rigorous pursuit of sustainability
Jenny Wassenaar’s leadership reflects Trivium Packaging’s laser focus on sustainability. Through strategic initiatives, rigorous product standards, and collaborative efforts, Trivium seeks to lead by example in the packaging industry.
As Wassenaar puts it, “Sustainability is science in the making,” indicating an ongoing process of adaptation and improvement.
