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Sustainability by Conviction: How SÜDPACK puts it into Practice

Image Displays the poduction hall for High-Performance Films in Ochsenhausen at SÜDPACK

Sustainability by Conviction

datetime 05/05/2026 readtime 3 min.

Sustainability often sounds like a bold vision—at SÜDPACK, it’s everyday practice. 

From “ZERO Waste” in production to the “NET ZERO” climate target, the company makes progress measurable, expands renewables, and aligns with the SBTi’s 1.5°C pathway. Added to that are clear standards for occupational safety and the supply chain—along with recognitions such as EcoVadis Platinum. A look behind the scenes.

Sustainability is a big word.

At SÜDPACK, it’s meant to be one thing above all: measurable and practical for day-to-day business. Headquartered in Ochsenhausen, the company is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of high-performance films and packaging solutions. Many of us come across these films every day—for example, on cheese, cold cuts, snacks, or convenience products. And this is exactly where it becomes clear why packaging is more than “just plastic”: it protects food, extends shelf life, and helps prevent food waste. Less food thrown away ultimately also means fewer unnecessary CO2 emissions.

At the same time, one thing is clear: packaging has to improve, too—for the climate, the environment, and society.

That’s why SÜDPACK looks beyond pure product development. The company has defined concrete goals that show up in everyday processes and decisions. One key pillar is the “ZERO Waste” strategy: wherever possible, waste is to be avoided—through more efficient production, better planning, and the consistent reuse of valuable materials. At the same time, SÜDPACK is pursuing its long-term climate ambition of “NET ZERO”, working to reduce greenhouse gases as far as possible.

Energy is an important lever for this. SÜDPACK is increasing energy efficiency, expanding renewables, and sourcing climate-friendly electricity. The company is also deliberately setting a high bar by joining the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The idea: climate targets should be defined in a way that’s science-based and compatible with the 1.5°C pathway. In concrete terms, SÜDPACK aims to significantly cut its greenhouse-gas emissions by 2030 compared to the 2021 baseline year.

Regionally, the group is taking responsibility as well. By joining the Baden-Württemberg Climate Alliance, SÜDPACK has signed a voluntary climate-protection agreement. Partners commit to regularly tracking their emissions and reporting progress. This isn’t a PR exercise—it’s an ongoing mandate. Only those who know their numbers can improve them with focus.
 

Concrete goals

  • “ZERO Waste” strategy: wherever possible, waste is to be avoided
  • Long-term climate ambition: “NET ZERO”
  • Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi): SÜDPACK aims to significantly cut its greenhouse-gas emissions by 2030 compared to the 2021 baseline year.
  • Regional responsibility: joining the Baden-Württemberg Climate Alliance

But sustainability doesn’t only mean protecting the climate and the environment

Fair rules and reliable collaboration matter just as much. At SÜDPACK, the focus is on health protection, safe working conditions, and equal opportunity. That includes the supply chain: a Supplier Code of Conduct based on the UN Global Compact is designed to make minimum standards—such as human rights and working conditions—binding.

 

That these efforts are being recognized ...


…  show external assessments. Since 2025, SÜDPACK has held Platinum status in the EcoVadis rating, placing the company among the top 1% of all assessed businesses. The film manufacturer has also been repeatedly named among the leading mid-sized companies in innovation and sustainability rankings.

 

In the end, it comes down to a mindset that shows in action: at SÜDPACK, sustainability is understood as an opportunity—to future-proof the company, develop new solutions, and work with customers and partners to make the packaging world a little better, step by step.