GERMANY – Bayer, in partnership with Liveo Research, has launched a pioneering PET blister pack for its Aleve over-the-counter (OTC) drug, aiming to cut environmental impact by eliminating PVC and reducing the pack’s carbon footprint by 38%.
Traditionally made from multilayer plastics and aluminum, blister packs are challenging to recycle. However, Bayer sees PET as a more sustainable alternative, widely recycled in other sectors.
The new PET blister pack reduces weight by 18% per unit compared to previous designs and reportedly requires 78% less water and 53% less land to produce.
These improvements contribute to biodiversity conservation and align with Bayer’s sustainability goals.
The pack will initially be available in the Netherlands, with plans to roll out the design across Bayer’s entire blister packaging portfolio. Notably, Bayer intends to maintain price stability for consumers with the new packaging.
“Our aim is to create packaging that enhances the consumer experience while minimizing environmental impact and building circular solutions,” says Chris Padain, Bayer’s VP and Global Head of Design, Packaging, Product Experience & Sustainability in Consumer Health.
“We’re proud that this new blister pack decreases both carbon and resource footprints, marking a significant step in our sustainability journey.”
Liveo Research CEO Dr. Carsten Heldmann adds, “By introducing our PET One-Material Blister to Bayer’s Aleve range, we demonstrate that large-scale, sustainable blister packaging is feasible.
“This packaging reduces waste and CO₂ emissions today. As a pharmaceutical packaging specialist, we are dedicated to supporting industry sustainability goals within regulatory requirements.”
Bayer acknowledges that advancements in recycling infrastructure are necessary for PET blister packs to be fully circular.
The company is also exploring new methods for packaging non-prescription medicines without compromising on safety, quality, or efficacy.
In June, Bayer expanded its eco-conscious packaging efforts by collaborating with PAPACKS on fiber-based consumer health packaging for products like Aspirin, Bepanthen, and Claritin.
The biodegradable packaging, crafted from responsibly sourced virgin fibers, uses PAPACKS’ molded pulp technology with renewable materials and plant-based coatings.
Bayer and PAPACKS aim to replace traditional plastic packaging with sustainable, renewable alternatives through this partnership.
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