Delivery mode

Self-based online

Schedule

Estimated study time: 27 hours

Location

E-learning environment

Language

English

Scope

1 ECTS

Introduction to the Packaging Value Chain

Sustainability pressures and circular economy targets are reshaping packaging. Companies face growing demands to reduce material use, cut carbon footprints, and comply with evolving regulations across global supply chains.

Introduction to the Packaging Value Chain online course provides a clear, structured overview of how materials, design, production, logistics, and recycling interact. Delivered as a flexible self-paced online course, it combines expert insights with practical examples to help you understand the functional properties of fiber-based packaging and the processes behind them.

By completing this program, you’ll gain the knowledge to make informed decisions on materials, design, and processes that support sustainability and efficiency. You’ll strengthen your ability to address regulatory requirements, optimize resources, and contribute to your organization’s environmental goals.

 

Start

Any time: License for 90 days starting from the order date

Fee:

Schedule Contact us

Henri Nyberg, Project Manager

+358 10 837 3797

henri.nyberg@aaltoee.fi

Contact us

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, the student will have a comprehensive understanding of natural fiber-based packaging, including:

  • the structure of paper and board

  • the key characteristics of board-based packaging, including converted products

  • the main raw materials used in production

  • the key characteristics of the main production processes

  • the functional properties of end products and their relationship to raw material quality

  • current sustainability trends in the field of natural fiber-based packaging

For

This program is designed for professionals who need a clear understanding of the packaging value chain and its sustainability implications. It suits those working in packaging, manufacturing, supply chain, or sustainability roles who want to strengthen their ability to make informed decisions on materials, design, and processes.

Typical participants include

  • Logistics Managers

  • Procurement Managers

  • Production Managers

  • Quality Managers

  • R&D Managers

  • Supply Chain Managers

  • and Sustainability Leads.

These roles often face challenges such as meeting regulatory requirements, reducing environmental impact, optimizing material use, and aligning packaging solutions with circular economy goals.

 

 

Content and Schedule

The program covers the entire packaging value chain, from raw materials and fiber properties to papermaking, converting, and sustainability considerations. You’ll explore how design, production, and recycling interact to shape packaging performance and environmental impact.

 

The course takes approximately 27 hours to complete and is equivalent to 1 ECTS.  It includes modular content with a mix of video lectures, readings, and assignments.

You can complete the course at your own pace, either by spreading the content over several weeks or by following a more focused schedule. 

Learners have 90 days of access to the course materials, allowing flexibility to study at their own pace. To complete the course, participants must engage with all modules and pass the quizzes.

Instructors

Eero Hiltunen

Eero Hiltunen is a University Lecturer at Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering.

Jouni Paltakari

Jouni Paltakari is a Professor of Converting and Packaging Technology at Aalto University.

Thaddeus Maloney

Thaddeus Maloney is a Professor in Biobased Material Technology at Aalto University.

 

He has over 20 years of experience in the pulp and paper and related industries, primarily in research and development roles, as well as in paper production. His core technical expertise lies in papermaking raw materials—especially fibers and pigments—and their behavior in industrial processing.

In addition to his technical background, he has extensive management experience and a strong understanding of the Finnish and European pulp and paper industries.

Program Fee and Registration

The fee for the Introduction to the Packaging Value Chain online course is € 150 (+ VAT).


This program has adopted Aalto EE's new Customer ID, and it is delivered on Aalto Learning Experience Alex e-learning environment. Before ordering, please visit aaltoee.fi/customerid.

Program start

Any time: License for 90 days starting from the order date
Register

Program start