The Vienna Sustainable Food Packaging Confex (VSFP), held from 9 to 11 October 2024, brought together global leaders and industry pioneers to explore the future of sustainable packaging.
Co-organized by UNIDO, Packforce Austria, the World Packaging Organisation (WPO), and FH Campus Wien, VSFP highlighted innovations aimed at minimizing food waste and reducing environmental impact across the food supply chain. Among the attendees was Kelly Mulholland, FSSC Technical Manager of Quality & Safety.
By improving the efficiency of the food supply chain through sustainable food packaging design, we can substantially reduce food loss and waste, offering a tangible way to lower the global environmental footprint.Kelly Mulholland
Day 1: Industry Insights and Facility Tours
The first day launched with a series of field visits. Participants toured the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) laboratories in Seibersdorf, delving into the latest food safety and traceability technologies. Following this, the team visited WPO’s headquarters and then moved to Spittelau, Vienna’s cutting-edge waste incineration plant. Known for its vibrant design by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the Spittelau facility is both an architectural icon and a symbol of Vienna’s commitment to sustainable energy recovery.
Day 2: Austrian National Packaging Day at FH Campus Wien
On the second day, attendees gathered at FH Campus Wien for Austrian National Packaging Day. Industry experts shared insights on innovative packaging approaches, including advances in materials, processes, and circular economy applications.
Day 3: Global Dialogue on Sustainable Packaging
The final day convened industry leaders at UNIDO Headquarters for a robust Global Dialogue on sustainable packaging’s role in global development. Topics covered included:
- Packaging as a tool for sustainable development and circularity
- Global regulatory compliance in packaging standards
- Innovations across the packaging value chain aimed at enhancing recyclability
- Solutions to balance food loss reduction and safe packaging
The session concluded with a COP30 Joint Initiative to accelerate progress on sustainable packaging worldwide. Attendees then enjoyed a dinner at a traditional Viennese restaurant, capping off the event with local food, networking, and new connections.
Moving Forward
VSFP 2024 showcased the collaboration and innovation essential to driving meaningful change in sustainable food packaging. By uniting stakeholders across disciplines, the event solidified Vienna’s place as a leader in sustainable packaging practices and a venue for ongoing dialogue and development.
Register for the upcoming FSSC Insights webinar on FSSC 22000: Protecting Food, Reducing Waste to learn more and join the conversation on the future of sustainable food packaging.
