Macfarlane, Sonoco report strong progress on emissions and sustainability in 2024

UK – Macfarlane Group, a leading UK-based packaging company, reported a 32% reduction in group carbon emissions over the past five years, with carbon intensity dropping by 44% in the same period.

These results reflect the company’s ongoing efforts to embed sustainability into its core operations, says the report.

The company has also expanded its electric vehicle programme, increasing its fleet of fully electric commercial delivery trucks from five in 2023 to nine in 2024.

Additionally, 42% of Macfarlane’s company car fleet is now electric, up from 32% the previous year.

David Patton, Head of Sustainability at Macfarlane Group, stated, “We are pleased to report further progress against a range of key sustainability metrics. Our continued investment and demonstrable actions reflect our deep commitment to this agenda, even as we remain mindful of the challenges ahead.”

Beyond environmental goals, the company highlighted strides in diversity and community engagement.

Currently, 40% of its board and one-third of its senior leadership team are women. Macfarlane also reported strong involvement with charity partners through volunteering, logistical support, and fundraising efforts.

Sonoco highlights global progress following Eviosys acquisition

Meanwhile, global packaging manufacturer Sonoco has published its 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report, showcasing its expanded capabilities and intensified environmental goals following the acquisition of Eviosys—a major metal packaging company in Europe.

The integration of Eviosys has significantly bolstered Sonoco’s presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, adding 6,300 employees and 45 facilities to its network.

Operating under the brand Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA, Eviosys plays a central role in accelerating Sonoco’s circular packaging strategy.

Sonoco has committed to a 25% reduction in scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, using 2020 as the baseline.

So far, the company has launched 27 sustainability initiatives this year, including major renewable energy investments—solar installations in the U.S. and Italy, energy-efficient turbo blowers in the UK and Indonesia, and a new biogas boiler in Subang.

A landmark virtual power purchase agreement with ENGIE North America will deliver 140 MW of wind energy capacity by year-end.

These combined efforts have already cut Sonoco’s energy use by 9.6%, surpassing its interim 8% target.

Eviosys also reported a 26.3% decrease in its scope 1 and 2 emissions from 2020 levels and received a second consecutive EcoVadis Platinum rating, earning a perfect score for environmental performance.

New energy-efficient oxidisers at five sites are expected to reduce natural gas use by 60% and eliminate solvent emissions.

Together, Macfarlane and Sonoco’s reports reflect a growing commitment across the packaging sector to measurable environmental impact, clean energy adoption, and responsible growth.

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