DS Smith, part of International Paper and a prominent provider of sustainable fibre-based packaging solutions, has been recognized as a finalist in the Climate category for the Sustainability Awards 2025. The nominated innovation, DS Smith Lift Up—a sustainable alternative to plastic—was developed in partnership with Krones, a specialist in packaging and bottling machinery.
The announcement of the final winners will take place at the Sustainable Packaging Summit, scheduled from November 10 to 12, 2025, in Utrecht, Netherlands. The shortlisted finalists were revealed by an independent international panel of expert judges on June 4, 2025.
DS Smith Lift Up
This innovative packaging solution features a fibre-based corrugated cardboard design intended to replace plastic shrink wrap for PET bottle multi-packs, both large and small. By eliminating the need for single-use plastics, it effectively reduces carbon emissions and energy consumption. The solution consists of a corrugated cardboard clip with printed graphics, an integrated carrier handle, and a paper band, making it easy for consumers to open, carry, and recycle.
Fibre-based Solutions for PET Bottles
DS Smith offers a printed paper band in conjunction with a corrugated clip, both engineered for high-speed Krones packaging lines. These fibre-based materials are not only efficient to manufacture, but they also contribute to a significant 58% reduction in overall energy consumption on the packing line.
Reduction in CO2 Emissions
A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study conducted by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) evaluated the DS Smith Lift Up packaging solution. The results indicated a remarkable 42% decrease in CO2 emissions compared to standard shrink film packs. For a typical packing line handling 23 million bottles annually, utilizing the DS Smith Lift Up packaging can help brands in the beverage industry eliminate approximately 582 tons of plastic and 1,260 tons of CO2 emissions from their operations.
Patricia Oddshammar, Design & Innovation Director at DS Smith, stated: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for the Packaging Sustainability Awards. Our DS Smith Lift Up packaging solution is intended to replace plastic shrink wrap on PET bottles and it has been hugely successful in eliminating carbon emissions. In-store, DS Smith Lift Up is a visibly appealing option on shelf and at Point of Sale, and consumers are benefiting from its easy-to-carry function, ergonomic handle, and intuitive opening mechanism.”
The DS Smith Lift Up range encompasses various packaging solutions, from duo-packs to eight-packs, applicable to both small and large bottles, all produced on the same packaging lines.
The Sustainability Awards 2025 emphasize best practices in Research and Development (R&D), featuring entries from global brands, start-ups, research organizations, and manufacturers. The Climate Category highlights innovative packaging that enhances resource efficiency by reducing the carbon footprint of materials.
DS Smith is committed to spearheading an industry-wide transition to a circular economy, delivering sustainable circular solutions to its customers across thirty-four countries worldwide. The business operates under a targeted Now and Next sustainability strategy, supporting its purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World.