Bangalore: The green potential of glass as a packaging medium has the lowest hazard in Human Toxicity Potential (HTP: toxicological impact on human), Terrestric Ecotoxicity Potential (TETP: toxicological impact on water and soils) and Photochem, Ozone Creation Potential (POCP: interference with ozone creation) compared to other forms of packaging, according to a life-cycle analysis (LCA) study conducted by the All India Glass Manufacturers' Federation (AIGMF).

The first ever ISO 14040/44 compliant and independently reviewed cradle-to-cradle LCA study on glass packaging by any industry in India, commissioned by AIGMF and executed by PE Sustainability India, subsidiary of PE International AG, Germany, was conducted by data collection from 28 furnaces representing 72 percent of Indian glass container production. It is in line with the methodology followed for Glass Packaging Institute (GPI), i.e. North American Glass Association and European Container Glass Federation (FEVE). It examines the impact of every stage in the life cycle of glass containers, from raw material extraction to end-use.

The glass packaging industry in India is valued at close to $ 1.07 billion (Rs 6000 crore) and continues to grow remarkably at a healthy rate of 8 - 10 percent per annum. India is amongst the top 15 markets for glass packaging globally and it is the third fastest growing market after Turkey and Brazil. The industry is driven primarily by downstream demand from of its user industries such as liquor, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, cosmetics and perfumery etc.

With the focus on sustainability, the LCA insights will enable manufacturers to communicate with clients on advantages of glass not only from product shelf life and human toxicity perspectives but also from the GRI, green funds and green purchasing program perspectives. The study will help the industry in focusing towards an integrated product policy (IPP) approach, practicing sustainable consumption and production (SCP) modules and maintaining regulatory standards.

LCA study has come up with the following recommendations;