Inaugural meeting of global associations

International trade associations are increasingly dealing with issues that go beyond national and regional borders. Often, many of the subjects dealt with by international glass container associations on a national or regional level also have a direct impact on a global scale. For this reason, FEVE - the European Container Glass Association - has invited international glass associations to meet in Düsseldorf, Germany, on 24 October, during the glasstec fair. The aim of this meeting is to exchange expertise and views on current regional and global packaging trends. The meeting will offer a perfect opportunity to network and share ideas.The glass container industry is dealing with a complex matrix of issues from raw materials and production to end-of-life and waste policies - all important aspects of production and consumption. Policy issues like Emission Trading Schemes, environmental policies and best practices in waste management and recycling, or regional and international strategies in sustainable consumption and production, are only some issues where national initiatives can have regional and ultimately global effects. The global glass associations meeting can help to position the glass container industry in the public debate on a global level.An increased global exchange can further lead to cost reductions for the industry, which is increasingly producing and operating globally. The glass container industry has high production investments and long-term return of investments. Therefore, global advocacy strategies can help companies to operate in predictable and stable production environments. It can further help global operating companies to better align their communications campaigns and to position glass as the first packaging choice for food and drink products in an increasingly competitive market.Glass packaging is a truly global product. It is available everywhere and in most cases, is locally produced. It combines tradition with environmental credentials and provides for endless design and branding opportunities. This is why trends in the packaging industry, national and regional policy initiatives and the promotion of glass packaging plays a crucial role when positioning container glass alongside other competing materials, not only on a national level but also increasingly on a global scale. 26.09.2012, FEVE\feve.org