Circular Packaging in Practice: CircSyst Partners Present Eco-Designed Solutions in Hungary
Link Copied!Article written by Eszter Balogh-Tanka International Project manager, MGFÜ
In the CircSyst project, a key focus is simplifying packaging to improve recyclability while maintaining functionality. This was showcased in Hungary, in November 2025 in Budapest, by CircSyst’s Hungarian project partners for packaging-related companies at the headquarters of MGFÜ.
Circsyst DEMO 9 members showcase eco-designed packaging solutions to the Omnipack Cluster
On 19 November, a meeting was held at the headquarters of MGFÜ within the framework of the Circsyt project, bringing together 18 industry representatives in person to present newly developed eco-designed packaging solutions to members of the Omnipack Cluster, the largest packaging cluster in Hungary. The event served as an important milestone in fostering industry dialogue around circular packaging solutions and regulatory preparedness.
Within the Circsyt project, Ugrinpack and MGFÜ are working together to rethink packaging production processes through the principles of the circular economy. The initiative addresses sustainability challenges while responding to the regulatory pressure created by the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The goal is to support the Hungarian packaging industry in adapting to future requirements by developing practical, economically viable, and environmentally responsible solutions.
Rethinking Packaging: Showcasing circular packaging solutions
The primary objective of the meeting was to present innovative packaging solutions focused on reducing plastic usage and simplifying multi-material packaging structures, which often create significant recycling barriers. Within the Circsyt project, the emphasis is on simplifying packaging to improve recyclability without compromising functionality.
Ugrinpack (András Ugrin) together with MGFÜ (Eszter Balogh-Tanka) presented the developed solutions and introduced the selected complementary products chosen for further development and collaboration. Importantly, the objective was not only to demonstrate innovative pilot solutions, but also to prepare the ground for their wide-scale industry adoption, ensuring that sustainable packaging alternatives can be realistically implemented across the Hungarian food sector.
During the meeting, the material testing phase was also introduced, highlighting the ongoing evaluation of:
- Monomaterial plastics (PE) – designed to replace complex multilayer structures and improve recyclability within existing waste streams.
- PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) – biodegradable biopolymers with promising potential for certain packaging applications.
- Mycelium-based materials – innovative bio-based solutions offering new possibilities particularly in protective packaging.
The challenge of financial sustainability
The dialogue with Omnipack Cluster members confirmed that one of the most critical aspects of this transition is the financial sustainability of circular packaging solutions. While regulatory pressure under the PPWR is accelerating the need for change, food producer companies often operate in highly price-sensitive markets with tight margins.
The Circsyt project and the DEMO 9 partners therefore place strong emphasis on developing solutions that are not only environmentally sound but also economically feasible and competitive.
Strengthening Industry Preparedness and Collaboration
The meeting highlighted the importance of industry-wide collaboration in preparing for the regulatory landscape shaped by the PPWR. Through the Circsyt project, Ugrinpack and MGFÜ aim to support the Hungarian packaging sector in transitioning from conventional linear models toward circular systems.
By engaging directly with the Omnipack Cluster, the project ensures that the developed solutions reflect practical industrial realities while strengthening cooperation across the value chain.
Through innovation, cooperation, and forward-looking circular design, the Circsyt project contributes to shaping a more circular and resilient future for the Hungarian packaging industry, paving the way for broader adoption of sustainable packaging solutions.