Driving sustainability through data-driven design decisions

Amcor has led the packaging industry in LCA expertise since first pioneering this service more than a decade ago. In FY23, we conducted 1,683 life cycle assessments for customers using ASSET™. We have completed over 15,000 ASSET™ assessments since the tool was first launched in 2007.

ASSET™ works by considering each step of the packaging life cycle, from extraction of raw materials, through production and use, to the product’s end of life. It generates life cycle data and insights, giving Amcor and our customers data-driven comparisons of the environmental impact of different packaging solutions.

Each ASSET™ LCA allows customers to compare up to six packaging solutions, providing either a cradle-to-gate or cradle-to-grave environmental comparison of the packaging options. Assessments also share the results of six balanced environmental impact indicators to give a quantitative appraisal of the environmental performance of each pack. This information helps customers easily assess the advantages and disadvantages of different design and material options and identify opportunities for improving environmental performance.

The results of ASSET™ LCAs can also help brands avoid unintended consequences related to their packaging choices. Simply switching to a different packaging type based on its perceived sustainability credentials may seem like an obvious choice, but can sometimes lead to practical or environmental drawbacks such as increased food waste, loss of product protection or increased carbon footprint. This is why careful assessment of the right solution is needed on a case-by-case basis to find the most effective packaging solution, free from unintended environmental consequences. The ASSET™ methodology is certified by The Carbon Trust on a biannual basis, meaning it is grounded in internationally recognized standards and best practices in environmental life cycle assessment.

We also offer a carbon labeling service in collaboration with The Carbon Trust. Through this service, offered to our customers in Europe, brands who reduce their packaging's carbon footprint by 20% or more can apply for the Carbon Trust’s "Reducing CO2 Packaging" label to print on the package to communicate its sustainability benefits to end consumers.