Presented by Marissa Lundberg, VP, National Accounts, Packaging & Sustainability, Group O

2025 Packaging Recycling Summit – Dallas, TX

Group O was honored to participate as a Gold Sponsor of the 2025 Packaging Recycling Summit, where our very own Marissa Lundberg delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the critical role of tertiary packaging in advancing corporate sustainability efforts.

Titled “Rethinking Tertiary Packaging: A Sustainability Imperative,” Marissa’s talk challenged the packaging industry to look beyond primary packaging and reconsider the often-overlooked impacts of secondary and tertiary packaging, particularly on Scope 3 emissions.

“While primary packaging often dominates discussions, secondary and tertiary packaging are critical for reducing Scope 3 emissions,” Lundberg emphasized.

Why It Matters: The Scope 3 Opportunity

Using real-world examples from industry leaders like McCormick, PepsiCo, Amazon, Clorox, and Kraft Heinz, the presentation illustrated how the vast majority of emissions fall into Scope 3, indirect emissions across the value chain. In McCormick’s case, 95% of their emissions are Scope 3, with 8% attributed to packaging. The takeaway: strategic packaging changes can have a measurable impact on ESG performance.

PCR Stretch Film: Measurable Reductions, Real-World Testing

Marissa unveiled data from a study Group O conducted across 42 packaging lines at 11 facilities comparing virgin stretch film to 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) film. The findings showed dramatic improvements in environmental performance with no compromise in quality:

• 21.9% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e)
• 33.5% reduction in water consumption
• 30.6% reduction in fossil fuel use

These results were backed by life cycle assessments (LCAs) and cost-benefit analysis, proving that sustainable choices can be both environmentally and economically sound.

Building Circularity into Stretch Film

Group O’s solution doesn’t stop at PCR. The company is helping clients close the loop with a circular stretch film recycling program, collecting used film, reprocessing it into resin, and producing new PCR film with no price premium compared to virgin alternatives.

Broader Offerings for Every Packaging Application

Group O’s portfolio of sustainable packaging materials spans beyond stretch film. Highlights include:

• Machine and hand stretch films with up to 40% PCR
• Hooder films, polybags, void fill, and cushioning with up to 80% PCR
• Tapes and labels with up to 90% recycled content
• Alternatives like bio-based films, compostables, reusable packaging, and recycled cornerboards

Driving Change Together

Acknowledging the common hurdles - cost, performance concerns, and resistance to change - Marissa offered a path forward: real-world testing, optimization, and collaborative partnerships.

“Sustainable packaging isn’t a tradeoff, it’s a strategic advantage when backed by data, testing, and the right partners.”

Thank You, PRS

Group O extends a heartfelt thank you to the Packaging Recycling Summit team for hosting an exceptional event and inviting us to contribute to the conversation on sustainable packaging. As a Gold Sponsor, we’re proud to support innovation that drives progress toward a circular economy.

For more information about Group O’s sustainable packaging solutions, contact us or explore our full suite of services.

About the Author

Marissa Lundberg is the Vice President of National Accounts, Packaging & Sustainability at Group O, where she helps leading brands optimize their packaging systems for cost efficiency, performance, and environmental impact. With deep expertise in materials, automation, stretch film, and custom packaging design, she drives end-to-end solutions that support sustainability goals and reduce waste. Passionate about creating meaningful change, Marissa focuses on future-proofing packaging through innovative design, circular economy strategies, and smart sourcing to ensure long-term value for both her clients and the planet.