Canada Single Use Packaging Market Overview, 2029

Canada Single Use Packaging Market Overview, 2029

The history of single-use packaging in Canada reflects global trends of industrialization, consumerism, and environmental awareness. Initially dominated by materials like paper, glass, and metal, the mid-20th century saw the rise of plastic as a versatile and cost-effective packaging material. As concerns about plastic pollution grew, particularly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, initiatives aimed at reducing single-use plastics gained momentum. In response to mounting environmental pressures, Canada introduced measures to address plastic waste, including recycling programs and discussions about sustainable alternatives. In 2018, the Canadian government announced plans to ban certain single-use plastics by 2021. Items targeted for prohibition include plastic straws, stir sticks, bags, cutlery, and certain types of food containers. Several Canadian provinces have implemented or are considering EPR programs for packaging and printed paper. These programs shift the responsibility for managing packaging waste from municipalities to producers, encouraging them to design more environmentally friendly packaging and invest in recycling infrastructure. Canada enacted regulations banning the manufacture, import, and sale of toiletries containing plastic microbeads. These tiny plastic particles, commonly found in personal care products like exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste, can accumulate in waterways and harm marine life. Packaging manufacturers like Amcor and Tetra Pak supply the materials essential for single-use packaging across various industries. Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) giants such as Nestlé Canada and Procter & Gamble (P&G) Canada utilize these materials, packaging their products for distribution and sale. Retailers like Loblaw Companies Limited and Walmart Canada serve as the final link, providing platforms for the distribution of packaged goods to consumers.

According to the research report ""Canada Single Use Packaging Market Overview, 2029,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Canada single use packaging market is anticipated to grow at more than 4.9% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in environmental awareness, both globally and within Canada, regarding the detrimental effects of single-use packaging on ecosystems and human health. Plastic pollution, in particular, has become a pressing issue, with plastics being found in oceans, rivers, and even remote environments. This heightened awareness has led to a shift in consumer attitudes towards more sustainable alternatives and has put pressure on businesses and governments to take action. The Canadian government has responded to the environmental challenges posed by single-use packaging through various regulatory measures. These include bans on certain single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, and cutlery, as well as the implementation of extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs. EPR programs require producers to take responsibility for the end-of-life management of their products, including packaging waste. Provinces and municipalities across Canada have introduced their own regulations aimed at reducing single-use packaging and promoting recycling and waste reduction. This regulatory framework creates both challenges and opportunities for businesses operating in the single-use packaging market, as they must adapt to comply with new requirements while also seeking innovative solutions to meet consumer demand for sustainable alternatives. The concept of a circular economy, which aims to minimize waste and maximize the value of resources by keeping them in use for as long as possible, has gained traction in Canada. Transitioning towards a circular economy involves redesigning products and packaging to be more durable, reusable, and recyclable, as well as investing in infrastructure for recycling and waste management. Initiatives such as product stewardship programs, which encourage manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, and the development of closed-loop systems for packaging materials are key components of Canada's circular economy strategy. While there is growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, cost remains a significant consideration for businesses operating in the single-use packaging market.

Plastic is one of the most widely used materials in single-use packaging due to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Its widespread use has raised concerns about environmental pollution and waste. In Canada, plastic packaging includes items such as beverage bottles, food containers, and packaging films. Despite efforts to reduce plastic consumption, it remains prevalent in the market due to its convenience and availability. The Canadian government has implemented regulations to address plastic pollution, including bans on certain single-use plastics and initiatives to promote recycling and waste reduction. Paper and paperboard are commonly used in single-use packaging for a variety of products, including food, beverages, and household goods. In Canada, paper-based packaging includes items such as cardboard boxes, paper bags, and cartons. The paper and paperboard industry plays a significant role in the Canadian economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth. While paper-based packaging is generally considered more environmentally friendly than plastic, challenges remain in sourcing sustainable fiber, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing waste in the production process. Glass is a durable and recyclable material commonly used in single-use packaging for beverages, food products, and cosmetics. In Canada, glass packaging includes items such as bottles and jars. Glass has several environmental advantages, including its inert nature, which makes it non-toxic and resistant to chemical leaching. Despite these challenges, glass remains a popular choice for premium products and brands seeking to emphasize sustainability and product quality. Metals and wood are less commonly used in single-use packaging compared to plastic, paper, and glass, but they still play a significant role in certain industries and product categories. Metal packaging, such as aluminum cans and steel containers, offers excellent barrier properties and recyclability, making it suitable for food and beverage packaging. Wood packaging, including wooden crates and pallets, is used primarily for shipping and transportation purposes. While metals and wood have environmental advantages, such as recyclability and biodegradability, their use in single-use packaging is limited by factors such as cost, weight, and availability of alternative materials.

The food industry is one of the largest consumers of single-use packaging in Canada. From packaged snacks to ready-to-eat meals, single-use packaging plays a vital role in preserving freshness, ensuring food safety, and extending shelf life. In this sector, packaging must not only be functional but also visually appealing to attract consumers. Sustainable packaging solutions are increasingly sought after as consumers become more environmentally conscious. Companies in this sector, such as major food manufacturers and retailers, continuously innovate to develop packaging that reduces food waste and environmental impact while maintaining convenience. The beverage industry relies heavily on single-use packaging for products like bottled water, soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages. Convenience, portability, and branding are key considerations in beverage packaging design. Single-use bottles, cans, and cartons must be durable and nonentity while also being recyclable or made from recycled materials to meet consumer and regulatory expectations for sustainability. With increasing awareness of plastic pollution, there is growing demand for alternative packaging materials and packaging-free options like bulk dispensers and refill stations. In the personal care industry, single-use packaging is used for a wide range of products including cosmetics, toiletries, and hygiene products. Packaging in this sector often prioritizes product protection, hygiene, and ease of use. Consumers look for packaging that is convenient for travel, reduces product wastage, and communicates product benefits effectively. Pharmaceuticals require packaging that ensures product integrity, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards. Single-use packaging in the pharmaceutical industry includes blister packs, vials, ampoules, and pouches, designed to protect drugs from contamination, moisture, and tampering. Packaging materials must meet stringent requirements for stability, compatibility, and barrier properties to preserve the efficacy of medications. Beyond food, beverage, personal care, and pharmaceuticals, single-use packaging serves various other industries in Canada, including household products, pet care, automotive, and electronics. As awareness of environmental issues grows, there is a collective effort across industries to adopt more sustainable packaging practices and reduce the environmental footprint of single-use packaging across all sectors.

E-commerce in Canada is experiencing robust growth, and this surge is having a significant impact on the single-use packaging market. The rise in online shopping, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to an increased demand for efficient and sustainable packaging solutions. E-commerce companies are now more focused on packaging that not only protects products during transit but also aligns with consumer preferences for eco-friendly options. This trend has resulted in a higher demand for single-use packaging materials that are both effective and environmentally responsible .One of the primary drivers behind this shift is the growing consumer awareness of environmental issues. Canadian consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices, which is pushing e-commerce platforms to adopt greener packaging solutions. This has led to the adoption of biodegradable and compostable materials, such as PLA and PHA plastics, which are used extensively in packaging for small electronics, clothing, and food items shipped through online channels. These materials offer the dual benefits of reducing plastic waste and enhancing the eco-credentials of e-commerce companies, thereby improving customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Advancements in recyclable paper and paperboard packaging are playing a crucial role in meeting the demands of the e-commerce sector. With their nonentity nature and improved barrier properties, these materials are ideal for protecting a wide range of products while being easy to recycle, thus reducing the environmental footprint of packaging waste.
Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Single Use Packaging market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Material Type
• Plastic
• Paper and Paperboard
• Glass
• Other Material Types (Metals and Wood)

By End-user Industry
• Food
• Beverage
• Personal Care
• Pharmaceutical
• Other End-user Industries

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Single Use Packaging industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.