Is plastic compatible with sustainability? How can industrial film usage be reduced by 80% while maintaining load security? And what does sustainability mean for a company that works with plastic on a daily basis? We sat down with Gábor Arató, Managing Director of Manupackaging International Kft., based in Hungary with customer service in Budapest and operations across European markets. His message is clear and relevant across the continent – from manufacturing to logistics, companies need smarter packaging decisions that reduce environmental impact without compromising efficiency or safety.

– Manupackaging deals with packaging materials. How does that align with sustainability?

When people hear ‘sustainable packaging’, they often think of paper or compostable alternatives. Our approach is more nuanced: we look for the most functional and environmentally sound material for each packaging challenge. Sometimes, that’s recyclable plastic – because it performs better, requires less material, and has a smaller footprint.

– Isn’t that against the popular notion that plastics should be eliminated?

It’s a common belief, but not always practical. If paper-based packaging offers less protection or requires three times as much material, it can actually increase the carbon footprint. Today, we can achieve the same packaging functionality with just 150–200 grams of film instead of 1 kg used two decades ago. Efficiency is one of the keys to sustainability.

– What can you offer European partners looking for more sustainable solutions?

All our films are recyclable, and we offer increasing amounts made with recycled content. Despite higher costs and no tax incentives, many of our partners – including top food producers and logistics companies – have already chosen them. For instance, we helped reduce film usage from 200 to 40 tons for one client, maintaining full load security while minimizing environmental impact.

– Do you have a formal ESG strategy in place?

Although we are not yet subject to mandatory ESG reporting, we collect data aligned with our partners’ expectations. We recently received the Ecovadis Silver certification – a valuable recognition of our progress and a practical guide for further improvement.

– What about innovation?

We are proud of our M-loop circular system, where used stretch film is collected, regranulated, and reprocessed into new products. This system is already working in countries like Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. We are ready to implement it more broadly across Europe as soon as local regulations and infrastructure allow.

– If you had to summarize what sustainability means for Manupackaging in one sentence?

Let’s think together – rationally, transparently, and with long-term perspective. We don’t believe in greenwashing. For us, sustainability is common sense.