Sustainable Aerosol Packaging Tinplate monobloc aerosol cans lead the way... Like every responsible company, Mall Herlan supports sustainability. However, what exactly is sustainability and how can a small machine supplier support such an important global effort? The word sustainability is in every company’s vocabulary nowadays, but it’s not easy to get a full understanding of the word. Mall Herlan uses a definition from Vanderbilt University as its guide, which defines sustainability as “Meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”1. Mall Herlan interprets that to mean that we are not requested to sort out all possible future problems today, but are required to keep all options available to allow next generations to sort it out for themselves. Further, our task is to make the best out of our current options. Vanderbilt University distinguishes three spheres of sustainability: 1. Environmental (use of resources, pollution prevention) 2. Social (standard of living, education) 3. Economic (profit, growth, R&D) Alternately, Mall Herlan refers to Vanderbilt’s abstract spheres as responsibilities. Social responsibility Vanderbilt’s definition of “meeting the needs of the current generation” obviously requires knowing what the current generation wants. Since we are all consumers, we ought to also know what consumers need and desire. 22 Spray December 2014 Dr. Bernd Ullmann When it comes to aerosols, consumers demand: • Easy-to-use, contemporary packaging • Hygienic solutions to support public health • Product quality • A wide range of applications in home care, technical and personal care products • Cost effectiveness Brand owners and packaging manufacturers are typically regarded as having the largest impact on the supply chain that meets these consumer demands. However, machine suppliers play an important role, as well. Three main goals drive machine manufacturers: • Creating more easy-to-use products for a better price This could entail machinery with better precision noting can wall dimensions; new quality inspection systems that help improve can integrity and safety; machines able to apply new and better coatings with improved grip; or machines with higher efficiency to minimize cost and allow can makers and brands to meet consumers’ pricing expectations. One recent example is a new 250-can-perminute manufacturing line that increases output by 25% compared to the older machines. 250 cpm extrusion press There is also a clear trend in emerging markets to replace older semi-automatic lines with fully automatic lines. Continued on page 24 This paper was originally presented at the Aerosol & Dispensing Forum in Paris, France.
Spray Dec 2014
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