Plastic packaging has a key role to play in the global food system, protecting perishable items and extending the shelf life of fresh produce. However, this is exacerbating the problem of plastic pollution, with progress to reduce plastic waste driven mainly by recycling, rather than the elimination of single-use plastic.
In the seventh article in Federated Hermes Insights series on the social and environmental impacts of the global food system, Lisa Lange examines the problem with plastic food packaging, and highlights some positive engagement outcomes.