NZW Fellows: Xan Harding
A self-confessed “nerd” with a penchant for policy and a passion for sociology has been recognised for his commitment to New Zealand’s wine industry.
Many international wine brands already using Tetra Pak cartons for different styles of wine, from "Cabernet Sauvignon to Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc - and everything in between", he says. They recently showcased some of these wines Winetopia and were impressed by the response from consumers. "If the engagement we received during Winetopia is anything to go by, consumers are ready and willing to embrace such a product."
Boris explains Tetra Paks are essentially a carton made from paperboard, with a thin layer of plastic and a layer of aluminium (eight times thinner than a human hair), which is fitted with a screw cap lid. No New Zealand wineries are currently using the format, but Boris says they have had discussions with local wine producers who have shown interest in the carton. "Decisions could be made on a product-by-product basis, and wine in carton can complement traditional wine packaging."
Like many of the alternative packaging formats, environmental impacts are driving interest from the wine industry. Tetra Pak has carried out several life cycle assessment studies and found "a carton has a carbon footprint that is 12 times lowr than a glass bottle". When it comes to transport it is 17 times lighter than a glass bottle, Boris says. "Distributing wine in cartons requires around 50% fewer trucks on the road". Cartons can be recycled in New Zealand by saveBOARD in Hamilton, who produce low carbon building materials from recycled packaging.
