A year after launching their partnership, Cantina Pizzolato, the Treviso winery known for its sustainability commitments, and Aliplast, a Hera Group company based in Istrana and specialising in plastic collection, recycling and regeneration, have reported the initial results of their joint initiative. The programme focuses on recovering the plastic films used in packaging and logistics and returning them to productive use through a circular packaging management model.
Aliplast collects Cantina Pizzolato’s plastic waste and processes it into new raw material, enabling the material to re-enter manufacturing cycles. The initiative produced measurable results in 2025: the winery delivered 19,810 kg of plastic film to Aliplast, while a further 1,801 kg was handled through the local collection service. In total, 91.7% of the plastic waste generated by the winery was directed to recycling. This outcome lowers the operation’s environmental footprint and supports a more circular production system. It also reflects wider food and beverage industry trends, as packaging decisions increasingly influence environmental performance and the integration of supply chains.
Turning packaging waste into recovered material
Plastic film plays an important role in wine logistics. Pallet covers and stretch film used to secure loads help protect products and maintain stability throughout transport. However, these materials require reliable end-of-life collection and processing. By connecting winery operations with an industrial recycling network, the partnership reduces waste while supporting the development of circular manufacturing models aligned with wider food manufacturing trends.
After collection, the film is transported to Aliplast’s Istrana facility. There, it is sorted, washed and shredded before being converted into pellets. The recycled material is then incorporated into new plastic film containing 30% recycled content and 70% virgin material. The resulting product provides the strength and flexibility required for logistics applications while reducing the consumption of primary resources. This application of food processing technology principles to packaging recovery demonstrates how material efficiency can support both operational performance and sustainability.
“The partnership with Cantina Pizzolato demonstrates how it is possible to transform plastics waste management into an efficient and traceable industrial process, capable of generating environmental and economic value”, comments Michele Petrone, CEO of Aliplast (Hera Group). “Integrating recycling directly into our partners’ production chains means making a tangible contribution to the spread of circular economy models, anticipating regulatory changes and strengthening businesses’ competitiveness”.
“The project with Aliplast combines environmental sustainability with efficiency in resource management, reducing waste, encouraging material recovery and strengthening ties with the local area thanks to the collaboration between two organisations located just a few kilometres apart”, explains Sabrina Rodelli, partner responsible for sustainability at Cantina Pizzolato. “In other recycling projects, the lack of operational facilities in Italy still forces us to transport materials across the border. This is why we consider it particularly significant to be able to develop a local, circular supply chain. Our hope is that this experience will become a replicable model and a source of inspiration for other companies, helping to foster a culture of sustainability and shared responsibility capable of generating positive and lasting impacts”.
A circular industrial approach for a changing regulatory environment
The initiative comes as European policymakers place greater emphasis on food and drink sustainability and packaging performance. In particular, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces demanding targets and requirements relating to recyclability and recycled content. These developments are among the key food and drink regulations shaping investment decisions across the sector.
The recycled plastics market is undergoing substantial change, with considerable variation in the quality, availability and commercial value of recovered materials. As a result, certified and traceable recycling systems that meet European standards are becoming increasingly important. Cantina Pizzolato has responded by committing to a long-term packaging strategy based on high-quality recycled plastic manufactured through Aliplast’s secure, certified European supply chain.
Recycled secondary raw material has become a strategic asset for manufacturers facing geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain disruption and fluctuating virgin material prices. High-quality recycling can reduce reliance on fossil-based resources while supporting continuity of supply, industrial resilience and competitiveness. Advanced recycling infrastructure therefore positions sustainability as more than a compliance obligation: it becomes a practical driver of business value and a central element of food and drink industry innovation.
At Cantina Pizzolato, the agreement with Aliplast complements an established sustainability programme. That programme includes organic viticulture, Equalitas certification, efficient resource use and the recovery of waste generated during production. By extending these principles to packaging and logistics, the winery can recover more materials, reduce disposal requirements and create a more consistent circular production model. The approach also responds to evolving food distribution trends, food and drink packaging expectations and food and drink consumer trends, while providing a strong foundation for responsible food and drink marketing.