World Packaging Organisation
| World Packaging Organisation |
|---|
| See also |
The World Packaging Organization (WPO) is an international non-governmental federation of national packaging institutes and associations, regional packaging federations and other interested parties, including industry and trade associations. It is a non-profit organization founded on 6 September 1968. in Tokyo. The main objectives of WPO are:
- promotion on a global scale for the development of technology, science and packaging engineering
- support for international trade
- educational activities in the field of packaging
- the possibility of communication between stakeholders in packaging industry by providing them with a forum for discussion
- dialogue with members on issues relating to packaging such as consumer safety, food preservation or impact of packaging on the environment
- supporting the development of such legal, technological and economic factors, which will optimize the storage and distribution of food and other products packaged in such a way that they were delivered to all in need
- advice on the creation and functioning of national organizations and institutions of packaging
- provide information about sources of knowledge about packing
- participation in other forms of activity.
WPO strives to meet these objectives, acting through national packaging organizations, other members and stakeholders.
Importance of packaging
Packaging is important because it protects and preserves products, making them safe for transportation and storage. It also helps to promote and market products, and can provide information about the product to the consumer. Additionally, packaging can play an important role in reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
The environmental impact of packaging can be significant. Packaging materials, such as plastic and paper, consume resources and energy during their production and transportation. Additionally, packaging materials can contribute to waste and pollution, as they can be difficult to recycle or may not be biodegradable. This can lead to negative impacts on the environment, such as litter in oceans, landfills and wildlife. Furthermore, packaging is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The use of sustainable materials and design, and the implementation of effective recycling and waste management systems can help to reduce the environmental impact of packaging.
Examples of World Packaging Organisation
- The WPO provides a forum for the international exchange of packaging knowledge and experience by enabling the sharing of information, ideas and best practices in the field of packaging. It also serves as a platform for the development of international packaging standards and guidelines, and for the promotion of packaging education and training.
- The WPO is also involved in research and development projects aimed at improving packaging technologies and processes. Through its various activities and initiatives, it seeks to promote the use of sustainable packaging materials and technologies, and to foster the responsible use of packaging materials throughout the world.
- The WPO also works in close collaboration with other organizations, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Packaging and Labelling Organisation (IPLO), to promote sustainable packaging solutions and global packaging sustainability initiatives.
- The WPO also works in partnership with the World Packaging Design Awards to recognize and reward outstanding packaging design and innovation. The awards are held annually and are open to designers and companies from around the world.
Advantages of World Packaging Organisation
The World Packaging Organisation (WPO) provides many advantages to its members and other stakeholders. These advantages include:
- Increased knowledge and understanding of packaging and related issues, as WPO facilitates the exchange of information, ideas and research.
- Access to a range of resources, including publications, databases, webinars, conferences, and awards and recognition programmes.
- Support for members in the form of guidance and advice on packaging issues.
- An international platform for communication and collaboration with other packaging experts and professionals from around the world.
- Opportunities for members to represent their countries at international meetings and events, and to participate in the WPO’s global initiatives and programmes.
- A voice in the global packaging industry, and the ability to influence decision-making and policy-making at international, regional and national levels.
Limitations of World Packaging Organisation
Although the World Packaging Organization (WPO) has been working since 1968 and has achieved a great deal in its mission to promote the packaging industry, there are some limitations to its efforts. These include:
- Its membership base is limited to national packaging institutes and associations, regional packaging federations and other interested parties, including industry and trade associations. This means that its scope of influence is limited as it does not extend to individuals or small businesses who are not part of such organisations.
- The WPO lacks the resources necessary to carry out its mission in a comprehensive manner. Although it has undertaken a number of projects, such as the Global Packaging Standards Initiative, it does not have the financial support necessary to expand its efforts and reach a wider audience.
- The WPO's influence is limited by the fact that it is a non-governmental organization and does not have the legal power to implement its initiatives. This means that it is dependent on the cooperation of governments and other organizations to achieve its goals.
- The WPO is limited in its ability to respond to the changing needs of the packaging industry. Its limited resources and scope of influence make it difficult for it to react to emerging trends in a timely manner.
In addition to its main objectives, the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) also aims to promote the development, science and technology of packaging, and to encourage research and education in all fields of packaging. These objectives are pursued through a number of other approaches, including:
- Developing international standards for packaging and packaging materials. This includes harmonization of packaging standards, specifications and testing methods, as well as improving the quality and safety of packaging.
- Educating and training packaging professionals, as well as encouraging participation in international events and conferences on packaging.
- Supporting the development of national packaging organizations and promoting collaboration among them.
- Promoting the responsible use of packaging materials and advocating more sustainable packaging solutions.
- Supporting and conducting research into packaging materials and their applications.
In summary, the World Packaging Organisation is committed to improving the quality and safety of packaging, educating and training packaging professionals, promoting responsible use of packaging materials, and conducting research into packaging materials and their applications.
References
- Klevås, J. (2005). Organization of packaging resources at a product-developing company. International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, 35(2), 116-131.
- World Packaging Organisation website.
