Harmful chemicals in packaging are quickly becoming one of the biggest concerns in Australia’s move toward safer, more sustainable production. With upcoming national packaging reforms, the focus has shifted beyond recyclability—now it’s about ensuring packaging is safe for consumers, workers, and the environment.
For brands across industries, this shift means taking responsibility for what goes into their materials. From coatings to inks, every element matters when it comes to reducing toxicity and improving product safety.
Why Australia Is Acting Now
The Australian Government is reforming packaging regulation to eliminate substances that harm both people and ecosystems. Under the new framework, manufacturers and brands will be held accountable for chemicals that:
- Impede recycling or recovery
- Pose risks to human health
- Contaminate soil and waterways after disposal
By targeting these issues early, Australia aims to create a cleaner, circular economy—where every piece of packaging can be safely reused or recycled without adding toxins back into the environment.
You can learn more about these national reforms on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website.
Common Chemicals of Concern in Packaging
Many everyday packaging materials contain chemicals that seem harmless but have long-term environmental effects. These include:
- PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): Used for water or grease resistance but known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in nature.
- Carbon Black Pigments: Found in dark plastics, which are difficult for recycling machines to identify.
- Oxo-Degradable Additives: These break down plastics into microplastics, worsening pollution rather than solving it.
- Complex Adhesives and Coatings: Some glues and inks release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect air quality.
Each of these substances adds to the challenge of achieving truly sustainable packaging systems.
How This Impacts Australian Brands
For businesses, particularly in packaging, logistics, and manufacturing, the pressure is on to rethink packaging design from the ground up. The cost of inaction can include:
- Regulatory penalties for non-compliance under upcoming reforms.
- Reputation damage if customers associate your products with environmental harm.
- Loss of recycling partnerships as waste processors reject contaminated materials.
On the positive side, proactive compliance can deliver:
- Access to new sustainable markets.
- Stronger brand trust and consumer loyalty.
- Lower long-term costs through material efficiency.
Practical Steps Toward Safer, Compliant Packaging
1. Audit Your Current Packaging
Identify where harmful chemicals might be hiding—especially in coatings, adhesives, or colourants. Suppliers should provide safety data sheets and disclosure about chemical additives.
2. Source Responsible Materials
Switch to materials designed for recyclability and made from renewable or recycled sources. Partner with suppliers who meet eco-certifications and avoid known harmful additives.
3. Reassess Your Inks and Coatings
Use water-based or vegetable-based inks. Choose coatings that are free from PFAS or chlorine compounds.
4. Collaborate with Industry Experts
Work with partners like Carewell Group who specialise in sustainable packaging design and understand the balance between functionality and environmental safety.
5. Stay Updated on Regulatory Changes
The landscape is evolving. Follow updates from DCCEEW and the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) to stay ahead of new chemical restrictions and standards.
The Role of Carewell Group in Safer Packaging
At Carewell Group, sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a commitment. We help businesses design packaging that meets new Australian regulations while maintaining quality, protection, and brand appeal.
From eco-friendly wraps to custom food trays and industrial mailers, every product we supply is engineered with recyclability and safety in mind. Our focus is on eliminating harmful chemicals while enhancing performance.
Explore our sustainability initiatives to see how we’re driving this transition for Australian industries.
Building a Circular, Chemical-Safe Future
Reducing harmful chemicals in packaging isn’t just about meeting compliance targets—it’s about shaping a safer future. The brands that act now will lead tomorrow’s sustainable economy, creating products that protect both people and the planet.
By auditing materials, working with transparent suppliers, and designing with recyclability in mind, Australian companies can align with both environmental and business goals.
To explore safer and smarter packaging solutions for your brand, connect with Carewell Group Pty Ltd:
Location: Unit 27/191 McCredie Road, Smithfield, NSW 2164
Phone: +61 0477 123 699
Email: sales@carewellgroup.com.au | info@carewellgroup.com.au | logistics@carewellgroup.com.au
