Independent lifecycle analysis (LCA) findings which show that our fibre-based insulation product, Visycell, delivers significant environmental benefits over expanded polystyrene (EPS).

The critically peer-reviewed LCA, conducted by an independent certified practitioner, compared a cardboard box lined with Visycell against its EPS equivalent across two packaging applications — seafood hog boxes and meal-kit delivery packaging.

A seafood hog box is a large, insulated box used to keep fresh seafood cold and protected during transport and storage.

For seafood hog box systems, compared to an EPS equivalent, Visycell produced:

  • 41% less greenhouse gas emissions
  • 14% less water
  • 87% lower impact on the aquatic environment from microplastics.

For meal-kit delivery packaging, compared to an EPS equivalent, the results for Visycell were even stronger

  • 41% less greenhouse gas emissions
  • 50% less water consumed
  • 91% lower impact on the aquatic environment from microplastics.

"By switching to Visycell, businesses aren't just protecting their products, they're helping to protect our environment, save water, and reduce emissions," says Chris Gatto, Sustainability Manager at Visy.

According to the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), only 28% of post-consumer EPS in Australia is recovered. Unlike EPS, Visycell can be easily recycled through kerbside recycling bins, making it a more sustainable choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

If you're a business looking to make the switch away from EPS, get in touch with the Visy team today.

Details on the LCA assumptions and limitations can be found in our Visycell Lifecycle Analysis brochure at www.visy.com/visycell