Investing in R&D is critical for the plastic industry says, Abdul Jebbar PB, Group MD, Hotpack Global

As the country continues on its mission to tackle single-use plastic with initiatives, tariffs, etc, Team Brew spoke to Abdul Jebbar PB, Group Managing Director, Hotpack Global about the options for plastic bag users and company policies towards the environment.

Q: What are your views on the ban on one-time-use plastic?

A: The ban is in line with the initiatives being implemented in over 90 countries and aimed to limit the usage of single-use bags that are harmful to the environment. It also needs to be noted that the newly implemented tariff applies not just to plastic bags, but to other alternative bags available too, and most alternatives currently available pose a larger environmental footprint than plastic bags. Thus, the ultimate motive is clear – to educate the consumers and create awareness about sustainable waste management and promote the reuse of bags.

While the ban on single-use plastic will help combat plastic waste pollution to a certain extent, a lot also depends on plastic pollution created by humans dumping plastic waste irresponsibly. We are a responsible organization and are in complete agreement with the hazard that single-use plastic poses to the environment, marine creatures, and animals.

Q: Tell us what is your company’s stance on sustainability?

A: My company Hotpack Global understands its responsibility and has been at the forefront of providing solutions to overcome the current challenges. Sustainability in packaging has been the most important part of its decision-making for all the investments, and Hotpack constantly innovates and reinvests cutting-edge technologies in manufacturing practices that ensure lesser carbon emissions.

As an extension of our responsibility, we have tried to ensure that our investment plans are designed in a manner that we are able to produce sustainable products that comply with the current legislation, at the same time focusing on offering alternatives that help reduce carbon footprint.

Q: As an industry leader in packaging, What alternatives can Hotpack provide the customers in UAE?

A: We embarked on its preparedness with various alternates to single-use plastics several years ago. We are already producing Paper bags, Recyclable Plastic bags, and a variety of mono-material that can be classified as Biodegradable, Compostable, or recyclable. As a company, we are in a unique position with the capability of producing a wide variety of products. It is the only company that can produce products that are Rigid and Flexible. It also produces products that are made from Paper, Plastic, and aluminium.

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Q: In terms of R&D and innovation, what new we can expect in the future?

A: Our R&D is always active in identifying newer products and technologies that further minimize their ecological footprint. Sustainability is the current buzzword in the industry and we are looking to create bigger opportunities in recyclable, compostable products that would help minimize CO2 emissions.

Most of the products offered by Hotpack fall in the sustainable category since they use Mono Materials and can be recycled or reused easily. Our team of experts has been running awareness campaigns to ensure we provide a solution with the right alternatives. The solution includes materials made from Paper, aluminium, and plastics.