Graphic Packaging Replaces Nearly 1.9 Billion Plastic Packages in Two Years — Graphic Packaging Holding Company

Event summary

Graphic Packaging replaced approximately 880 million plastic packages with paperboard alternatives in 2025, bringing the two-year total to nearly 1.9 billion.
The company generated $210 million in revenue from customer packaging innovation projects in 2025.
96% of Graphic Packaging's products sold in 2025 were designed to be recyclable.
Graphic Packaging achieved 99% sustainably sourced purchased forest products in 2025.

The big picture

Graphic Packaging's progress reflects the broader industry shift towards sustainable packaging solutions. The company's ability to replace nearly 1.9 billion plastic packages with paperboard alternatives underscores the growing demand for eco-friendly materials. As regulations tighten and consumer preferences evolve, Graphic Packaging's innovations position it as a key player in the circular economy.

What we're watching

Scale of Innovation: How Graphic Packaging will sustain the pace of replacing plastic with paperboard given growing regulatory and consumer demands.
Circularity Progress: Whether the Better by Design framework can drive further improvements in circularity, functionality, and convenience across all innovations.
Sustainability Goals: The pace at which Graphic Packaging can achieve its remaining Better by 2030 targets, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.