Paper vs Plastic: Not a Battle, but a Balance

The debate around paper vs plastic packaging is often framed as a competition. But for Mondi, a global packaging and paper group, it’s about finding the right material for the right application.

Mondi experts Silvia Hanzelova (Sales Director, Speciality Kraft Paper) and Piotr Barczykowski (Sales Director, Consumer Flexibles) argue that collaboration—not rivalry—is key. They emphasize packaging should meet product needs, sustainability goals, and cost efficiency.

Adapting for the Future

Packaging has long served to protect goods, but today’s challenges—like climate concerns and regulations—demand smarter solutions. Mondi’s Action Plan 2030 focuses on sustainable, circular packaging that is reusable, recyclable, or compostable.

“Packaging needs to be redesigned with its full lifecycle in mind,” says Hanzelova. “That includes raw materials, production, and end-of-life.”

Barczykowski highlights the importance of affordability in scaling sustainable materials, noting that both plastic and paper have roles to play depending on context.

Innovating with Paper

Mondi has introduced paper-based alternatives like Hug&Hold, a paper sleeve replacing plastic shrink wrap for PET bottles, and Ad/Vantage StretchWrap, a pallet wrap that cuts greenhouse gas emissions by 62% compared to virgin plastic film.

“These innovations combine nature with technology,” says Hanzelova. “We’re pushing the boundaries of what paper can do.”