In 1996, the aseptic package received the Presidential Award for Sustainable Development, the only package ever to receive this coveted environmental prize. At a White House ceremony, Vice President Al Gore recognized the aseptic package for its earth-smart profile and commended the aseptic packaging industry for demonstrating "extended responsibility through a product's life cycle and an outstanding contribution to a sustainable future."

Sometimes called the "drink box," the aseptic package is a lightweight, energy efficient example of minimal packaging (typically 96% product to 4% packaging, by weight) that is being recycled in a growing number of communities across the country. In addition, aseptic packaging retains flavor and nutrients, and allows traditionally perishable products (like real milk) to stay unrefrigerated and shelf-stable for up to six months.

In addition to the Presidential Award for Sustainable Development, the aseptic packaging industry has been recognized three times for its efforts to promote recycling with a certificate of achievement from Renew America. 

The Aseptic Packaging Council represent the major U.S. manufacturers of aseptic packaging - SIG Combibloc, Inc. of Chester, PA and Tetra Pak Inc. of Chicago, IL. The council's mission is to inform the American public of the product benefits and environmental attributes of aseptic cartons.

2000 Aseptic Packaging Council