1. Sustainability first

Cardboard is produced from cellulose. Unlike plastic, which depends on fossil resources and generates high greenhouse gas emissions, cardboard has a renewable cycle and lower environmental impact.

Furthermore, it is biodegradable, returning to the natural cycle when disposed of correctly and preventing soil and ocean pollution.

2. Recyclability and circular economy

One of the main benefits of cardboard is its recyclability. In Brazil, around 64% of the paper and cardboard produced is recycled, while in Europe this number reaches 82%. With the recycling process, used material is transformed into new packaging, reducing the need for virgin raw materials and saving energy.

Cardboard can be recycled up to five times without losing quality, reinforcing its role in the circular economy and ecological packaging.

4. Innovation in strength and functionality

Cardboard has become increasingly resistant and versatile thanks to new technologies. Moisture, oil and vapor barriers allow replacing plastics without compromising product protection. The inclusion of recycled fibers also increases the positive impact of the material, making it even more competitive as high-performance sustainable packaging.

5. Strategy and value positioning

Choosing cardstock is also a strategy. Eco-friendly packaging conveys values such as responsibility, innovation, and respect for the environment — attributes increasingly valued by consumers, retailers, and investors.

Sustainable cardboard combines all the characteristics that modern consumers look for in packaging: recyclability, biodegradability, safety, versatility and design possibilities. By adopting it, companies reduce their environmental impact, meet market demand, and contribute to a greener and more ethical future.

If the goal is to combine innovation, responsibility, and a circular economy, cardboard packaging is the right choice — and the future will thank you.

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Below, we detail some of the main initiatives and certifications that reinforce this commitment.

FSC – Forest Stewardship Council®

Since 2006, 100% of the paperboard used has been FSC® certified. This certification guarantees that the raw material comes from responsibly managed forests, respecting environmental, social, and economic criteria.

CDP – Carbon Disclosure Project

We’ve been participating in CDP, the largest global environmental data platform, since 2013. Through this initiative, we reinforce our commitment to renewable energy, emissions reduction, and transparency in environmental practices.

Carbon Neutral

Since 2020, all of our production has been 100% neutralized for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This process follows the rigorous standards of the Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM-UNFCCC), ensuring our packaging is more sustainable and responsible.

I-REC – International Renewable Energy Certificate

Since 2022, Ibratec has held the I-REC certificate, which proves the use of clean energy from renewable sources, strengthening our commitment to conscious environmental practices.

SMETA – Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit

Since 2012, we have followed the SMETA protocol, undergoing audits to ensure decent work, business ethics, and social performance in the supply chain. This practice reinforces our commitment to social responsibility.

EcoVadis

Since 2016, we have been evaluated by EcoVadis, a global platform that recognizes sustainable practices. In 2024, we earned the EcoVadis Seal of Commitment, highlighting our sustainability performance.

ISO 9001 – Quality Management

Since 2005, our plants have operated with a Quality Management System certified by ISO 9001, ensuring controlled processes aligned with customer requirements, without compromising sustainability.

PwC – Independent Audits

Transparency and trust are core values for us. For over ten years, we have been subject to independent audits by PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), ensuring clients and partners can trust and understand our environmental, social, and governance practices.

With these initiatives, we aim to offer cardboard packaging that protects products and the planet, reinforcing our commitment to the environment and people.

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What does biodegradable mean?

A material is considered biodegradable when it can decompose naturally through the action of microorganisms, without generating toxic waste. In the case of cardboard:

• It is made mainly from cellulose fiber, which comes from wood;
• It can decompose under natural soil or water conditions, returning nutrients to nature;
  
• Does not release harmful chemicals during decomposition.
  

Advantages of biodegradable packaging

• Lower environmental impact: Reduces the amount of waste in soil and water;
  
• Support for the circular economy: The material can be recycled or returned to nature;
  
• Alignment with conscious consumers: Products packaged in biodegradable materials are well-regarded by those who value sustainability.

Cardboard packaging can be biodegradable, but the process depends on the type of finish and additives used. Choosing responsibly produced materials helps balance product protection and environmental care, contributing to more sustainable practices in the industry.

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What is Circular Economy?

The circular economy is a production and consumption model that seeks to extend the lifespan of products, reducing waste, and promoting the reuse of materials. Rather than following the traditional linear model—”extract, produce, discard”—the circular economy proposes a continuous cycle of use and recycling, minimizing environmental impact.

Ibratec and the Circular Economy

At Ibratec, we implement practices that reflect our commitment to the circular economy:

• Recycling of Cardboard Scraps: We recycle 700 tons of cardboard scraps per year, contributing to the reduction of the consumption of natural resources and reducing the amount of waste generated.
  
• Use of Renewable Raw Materials: Our packaging is produced with cardboard from responsible sources, ensuring sustainability from the beginning.
  

Neutralization of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: Since 2020, our production has been carbon neutral, aligning us with global goals to reduce emissions and combat climate change.

Benefits for Our Customers

By choosing Ibratec as a partner, our customers benefit from:

• Sustainable Solutions: Packaging that meets the growing demand for environmentally responsible products.
  
• Continuous Innovation: Development of new products that incorporate sustainable practices and meet market needs.
  
• Environmental Commitment: Guarantee that your products are aligned with best environmental practices, strengthening your brand image.
  

At Ibratec, we understand that sustainability is essential for the future of the packaging industry. By implementing circular economy practices, we seek not only to reduce our environmental impact but also to offer our customers solutions that contribute to a more sustainable world.

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What does the B grade on the CDP mean?

CDP classifies companies according to their environmental performance, from climate risk management to the implementation of effective emissions reduction actions.

• A B rating indicates that the company demonstrates good environmental management, with structured and planned actions to reduce impacts and meet sustainability goals.
  
• This classification recognizes companies that go beyond compliance, adopting strategies to integrate sustainability into their business model.
  

Ibratec’s environmental commitment

At Ibratec, sustainability is part of our DNA. Some of the initiatives that contribute to our commitment include:

• Use of responsibly sourced cardboard: since 2006, 100% of the cardboard used has been FSC® certified.
• 100% of GHG emissions in our operations are neutralized;
  
• We use clean energy from renewable sources.
  

Why is this achievement important?

Receiving a B rating from the CDP reaffirms that Ibratec is a benchmark in sustainable packaging, demonstrating to customers, partners, and investors that the company cares about environmental impact and operates transparently.

This achievement also encourages continuous improvements, reinforcing our sustainable innovation strategy and our responsibility towards the environment.

Sustainability as a business strategy

More than just complying with standards, Ibratec understands that sustainability creates value. By integrating environmental practices into the production of paperboard packaging, we are able to:

• Reduce environmental impacts;
  
• Meet the demands of conscious consumers;
  
• Strengthen the brand image as a leader in sustainability;
  

Promote circular economy throughout the production chain.

The CDP B rating is more than recognition: it reflects Ibratec’s daily commitment to sustainability and responsible innovation. We will continue investing in sustainable processes and packaging solutions that protect both our products and the planet.

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Who we are

Ibratec is one of the largest packaging companies in Latin America, specializing in paperboard—a renewable, recyclable, and low-environmental-impact raw material. With two high-tech production units, we produce over 4 billion packages annually, combining high performance with total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions neutrality.

Our goal is to transform cardboard into packaging that combines functionality, design and sustainability, contributing to a more conscious future.

Our mission

At Ibratec, each solution is developed to meet the specific needs of our customers, with a focus on customization, innovation and a positive impact on the environment.

Participate!

Feel free to browse, interact, and leave your comments. We want this blog to be a space for inspiration, learning, and the exchange of ideas, connecting those seeking innovation, sustainability, and excellence in paperboard packaging.

The post Welcome to the Ibratec Blog! appeared first on Ibratec.

When we look at packaging, we often only see the box, bag, or whatever else protects the product. But behind every choice of material, shape, and function, there is a classification system that helps the industry define which type of packaging to use for each situation.

In this article, we’ll explain how packaging is classified, providing practical examples and showing how Ibratec applies this concept to create solutions.

The 3 main packaging categories

The classification most used by the industry divides packaging into primary, secondary and tertiary.

1. Primary Packaging

It is the one that is in direct contact with the product.
Examples:

• Cardboard box for sweets;
  
• Paper cup for hot drinks.
  

Main Functions:

• Preserve the integrity and security of the content;
  
• Inform the consumer with labels and instructions;
  
• Increase visual appeal at the point of sale.
  

2. Secondary Packaging

Groups and protects multiple primary packaging materials.
Examples:

• Cereal box, oatmeal;
  
• Cartridge that packs several cans of soda.
  

Main Functions:

• Facilitate transportation and storage;
  
• Organize units for sale in lots;
  

Reinforce brand presentation.

3. Tertiary Packaging

Mainly used in logistics and distribution of large volumes.
Examples:

• Pallets wrapped in stretch film;
  
• Master boxes for international transport.
  

Main Functions:

• Ensure safety during long-distance transportation;
  
• Optimize vehicle loading;
  
• Protect against impacts and climate variations.
  

Types of paper food packaging

Cardboard is widely used for packaging food, as it offers protection and versatility. The main types include:

• Transport and display boxes: for sweets, cereals, chocolates and bakery products;
  
• Trays and internal dividers: to organize and protect products inside larger boxes;
  
• Packaging with special closure: such as snap-on lid or reinforced flaps;
  

Each type meets a specific need, balancing protection, functionality and visual appeal.

And where does sustainability come in?

The classification also influences the choice of more sustainable materials. In the case of cardboard, it can be used in primary and secondary packaging, offering resistance, personalization and, most importantly, recyclability.

At Ibratec, the entire process is designed to reduce environmental impact, using renewable raw materials and completely neutralizing greenhouse gas emissions.

Trends in packaging classification

The packaging market is changing rapidly. Some trends include:

• Multifunctionality
• Sustainable design
• Reverse logistics

Understanding how packaging is classified is essential for companies that want to combine efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Want to learn about sustainable packaging solutions for your business? Explore our portfolio and discover how we can create the ideal packaging for your product.

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Sustainability in the Packaging Industry

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The Path to the Future

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Sustainability in the Packaging Industry

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Sustainability in the Packaging Industry

Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas. Maecenas vel nisi in orci porta tristique eu facilisis sem. Morbi lectus elit, iaculis at porta eget, sollicitudin sed massa. Fusce et porttitor libero. Mauris pharetra dui id velit aliquam imperdiet. Nam sit amet tempus erat, eget mollis velit. Integer pulvinar ipsum fermentum ante blandit, tempus lobortis dui vehicula. Sed molestie sed est vel mattis. Sed mi lectus, semper in rhoncus in, posuere id est. Nam ultrices nibh a neque tincidunt placerat.

The Path to the Future

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Sustainability in the Packaging Industry

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