Defining the level of functionality and sustainability of packaging materials and systems. This is the objective of the PACKCompute project, focused on research and generation of a new packaging development model based on the categorisation of its sustainability and functionality through computational models, with the participation of the Packaging Innovation Cluster, which coordinates the project; the Functional Print Cluster, leader in communication; the Ainia technology centre and Nettrim Technology, specialists in technology and outsourcing services, which are in charge of technical development; and Rodenas y Rodenas, which is in charge of technical development; the Ainia technology centre and Nettrim Technology, specialists in technology and outsourcing services, which are in charge of technical development; and Rodenas y Rivera, a leading company in the manufacture of flexible packaging, and IP3 Desarrollos, an industrial flexible packaging company, which are the companies validating the tool.

Ainia’s website reminds us that “79 % of consumers are changing their purchasing preferences based on criteria of social responsibility and the environmental impact of the company or product, according to a report by Capgemini. In addition, companies must adapt to the obligations imposed by Royal Decree 1055/2022 on packaging and packaging waste. One of these focuses on improving the environmental impact of the type of packaging used”.

In her article, Eva Sánchez says that the project will have software with a dual function. On the one hand, it will make it possible to classify existing packaging based on its characteristics of sustainability and suitability of functionality, helping companies in the evaluation of impacts and in their decision-making.

On the other hand, it will be a predictive tool of great value for the support of R&D&I in companies, since it will allow predicting the sustainability and functionality characteristics of a packaging before its development, thus helping to save time and money in the process of bringing sustainable packaging solutions to the market.