What Carbon Footprint does
Every packaging format is scored for cradle-to-gate emissions using the EU PEF Circular Footprint Formula (EC 2013/179/EU), the same basis regulators and LCA teams use. The tool reports kg CO2e per unit, factors recycled content, and grades each option A–D on how much carbon you buy per dollar of material.
- Cradle-to-gate CO2e via the EU PEF Circular Footprint Formula (EC 2013/179/EU)
- A–D grade on price-per-carbon efficiency, not just raw emissions
- Recycled-content (R1) defaults per material, editable to your actual PCR share
- Material prices served from the live PackIndex data layer
How it works
- Pick the format and material
Choose a packaging format and its substrate; the tool loads the PEF recycled-content default for that material.
- Set your recycled content
Override the default R1 share with your actual PCR percentage to reflect your real spec.
- Read the footprint and grade
See kg CO2e per unit and an A–D grade weighing emissions against material price — the carbon you buy per dollar.
- Compare alternatives
Switch materials to see how mono-material or recycled-content swaps move both the footprint and the grade.
Frequently asked
How is the packaging carbon footprint calculated?
Using the EU Product Environmental Footprint Circular Footprint Formula (EC 2013/179/EU) on a cradle-to-gate basis, with per-material recycled-content defaults from PEF Annex C. Material prices come from the live PackIndex data layer.
What does the A–D grade mean?
It rates price-per-carbon efficiency: a low-emission material that also costs little grades high, so you can see where a greener choice is also economical rather than a premium.
Does recycled content change the result?
Yes. Recycled content lowers cradle-to-gate emissions in the formula; the tool ships PEF defaults per material and lets you enter your actual PCR share.
Is this a certified LCA?
It's an indicative cradle-to-gate estimate for decision-making, built on the PEF methodology — a fast screen before commissioning a full third-party LCA, not a substitute for one.
Related on OPN
Every figure is served from the PackIndex data layer. Verify against current program schedules and supplier quotes before committing.