Leeds Beckett University Launches New Project to Boost Sustainable Packaging by 2034

Leeds Beckett University Announces New Project for Sustainable Packaging 

May 29, 2025 

Leeds Beckett University’s retail institute released a new major project that focuses on the sustainability of the packaging sector. The project brings one of the United Kingdom’s leading academic researchers who tend to improve the consumer experience in food and packaging. Leaders from the FMCG supply chain were also brought together by the Ten Institute, which led towards a structured program that maps to innovating sustainable outcomes in the packaging industry by 2034. 

Dr Ben Mitchell and Olga Munroe presented the report, which includes actionable suggestions for businesses, trade bodies, as well as governments. The points from the report highlight – 

The United Kingdom’s requirement for self-sufficiency in waste and material processing 

The requirement for a higher focus on cross-sector collaborations for achieving long-term sustainable goals. 

The consumer shifts and their impact on the packaging sustainability and designs. 

Transformation requirements in circular economy strategies, as well as focusing on waste value chains. 

The report also highlighted the road map until 2034, which includes significant recommendations such as substantial changes from the industry itself and a reduction in their reliance on government actions. The University report also focuses on developing a strategy for self-sufficiency in packaging. Additionally, it emphasizes increasing awareness and educating consumers regarding their role in the entire process. The suggestion concluded by emphasizing the need for legislation to define and curb greenwashing by the industry. 

The head of the retail institute, Olga Munroe, said that the project demonstrated the value of multi-stakeholders in addressing crucial commercial and societal challenges. He further added that “By applying rigorous academic methodologies, such as Futures & Foresight and Action Learning, it creates a structured yet dynamic environment for innovative, long-term sectoral strategy development. Under the guidance of Professor Jeff Gold, the Retail Institute and our expert panel formed a strategic vision and actionable roadmap for how the consumer goods retail sector can contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.”