What is Active Difference?
Active Difference (AD) is a sustainable packaging solutions company that designs, manufactures, and wholesales paper and plastic disposable products with a strong environmental perspective. Focused on the disposables “to-go” category, AD aims to take the “commodity” out of everyday products by creating innovative, sustainable alternatives. Their portfolio includes unique disposable consumables that stand out in the market, such as the world’s first digitalized paper coffee cup, which combines campaign software with a premium coffee experience. This innovation allows coffee chains and other users to drive sales, increase footfall, and engage customers—especially in delivery scenarios.
Main Benefits of Active Difference’s Approach
Active Difference’s commitment to sustainability and innovation brings several key benefits to the table:
- Development of the SIS-PAK sealing system: a “Quick Use” sustainable beverage pack replacing plastic bottles for home delivery.
- Products designed for a circular economy—emphasizing sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling.
- Reduction of raw materials used, with a focus on eco-friendly, recyclable resources.
- Creation of multifunctional products that replace multiple others, following the mantra: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
- Continuous redesign efforts to minimize waste and material consumption.
- Collaboration with TU Dublin and Enterprise Ireland to push sustainable packaging innovation.
Sustainability at the Core
At the heart of AD’s mission is sustainability. Every product is crafted with the circular economy in mind, which means extending the life cycle of materials through reuse and recycling. The company believes in using as few raw materials as possible, ensuring those materials are either recycled or sourced from eco-friendly origins. It’s not just about making products that look good or work well—it’s about making products that do good for the planet. The goal? To provide the right product, for the right application, for the right reason. Simple, but powerful.
Ethics That Guide Every Step
Ethics isn’t just a buzzword at Active Difference; it’s a guiding principle. They don’t take eco-claims at face value but rigorously review them to ensure authenticity and integrity. The company understands that short-term gains from misleading claims can damage reputation in the long run. Their philosophy is clear: “Ethical behavior is doing the right thing when no one else is watching – even when doing the wrong thing is legal.” This mindset shapes how they interact with customers, clients, and the environment, building trust and credibility every step of the way.
Innovation Driving Change
Innovation at AD means more than just new products—it’s about rethinking processes, ideas, and business models to create real impact. They work hard to take the commodity out of their products through research and development, customer collaboration, and design rethinking. Whether it’s developing new technologies or improving existing ones, innovation fuels their mission to positively change the sustainable packaging market. It’s a continuous journey, adapting to an ever-changing world and pushing boundaries to stay ahead.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – through circular economy practices and waste reduction.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by reducing environmental footprints with sustainable materials and processes.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – via continuous innovation and development of new packaging solutions.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – collaborating with TU Dublin, Enterprise Ireland, suppliers, and customers.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – addressing health and safety concerns with tamper-evident and secure delivery packaging.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Packaging
Active Difference is not just about today’s solutions—they’re constantly evolving. From improving operational processes like financial systems and ICT to enhancing marketing strategies that connect brands with their audiences, AD is building a sustainable future one innovation at a time. Their talented team is dedicated to pushing the envelope, ensuring that every product and service contributes to a healthier planet and a better business landscape. It’s a journey of growth, responsibility, and creativity—one that invites everyone to be part of the change.
