In a value chain perspective (see Figure 1), optimisation of one part of the packaging system might lead to new problems in another part of the system. For instance: reduction in packaging material for the consumer package can result in more waste of product or a need for more packaging material in the retail package. Packaging key figures can be a helpful tool to measure the effects of changes on the whole packaging system.
Figure 1 An example of a value chain. The red part is focused in the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive.
Examples of relevant key figures for packaged products are: