The World Packaging Organization recognized outstanding packaging from around the globe with its annual WorldStar awards, presented at a banquet held July 1 in Mexico City, Mexico. The three “best-of-the-best” President’s Awards Year 2008 were announced during the evening.

The President’s Award Gold
ConAgra Foods, United States - Healthy Choice Café Steamer’s Microwave Cooking Package

The President’s Award Silver
Crown Food Europe, United Kingdom – Easylift

The President’s Award Bronze
Josef Blazek, Czech Republic - T-STIX

The winners received the prestigious WorldStar trophy from the President of WPO, Mr. Keith A. Pearson, South Africa.

This year’s presentation also featured increased recognition for environmental responsibility, in keeping with WPO’s stated belief that efficient and effective use of resources in packaging is essential to Society’s aim to become more sustainable.

With that in mind, the WPO introduced a Sustainable Packaging Award as a section of its well-recognized WorldStar Awards program last year. WPO says its aim in this regard is to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable packaging, in keeping with the organization’s mission -- Better Quality Of Life Through Better Packaging For More People.

 “As both a social and practical matter, sustainability is an important part of the future of packaging,” says WPO Board Member Thomas Schneider, IoPP, USA. “We believe it is important to recognize those who share our commitment. WPO is enthusiastic about encouraging responsibility and common sense in packaging by offering its Sustainable Packaging Award on an annual basis. WPO will continue to refine its criteria as needed to promote advancements on the path towards sustainability. As packaging professionals, members of WPO are delighted to be part of this important business and social endeavor.”

The WPO this year recognized two highly regarded package designs with Sustainable Packaging Awards.

− Promens Farum A/S, Denmark, “Shellfish tank”
− IPN India Packaging Pvt. Ltd., India, “Pure water pouch”

In the context of Sustainable Packaging, a Special Mention was also granted to Antilhas – Solucoes Integradas para Embalagens, “100 % Recycled PET shopping bag” from Brazil.

In total, the WorldStar competition attracted 224 entries from 32 countries. Out of these, 134 were selected as WorldStar 2008 winners during the jury meeting held in Cape Town, South Africa in October 2008, which also coincided with the celebration of WPO’s 40th anniversary.

The WorldStar Ceremony and Banquet held July 1, 2009 at Hotel Nikko in Mexico City were hosted by the Mexican Packaging Association, AMEE. The banquet was attended by approximately 100 guests including winners, members of the World Packaging Organization (WPO), representatives of the Mexican and international packaging industry and associations as well as representatives of the press.

Source: World Packaging Organization