The fourth Perfume, Cosmetics and Design packaging congress opened its doors this morning in Paris, with nanotechnology, REACH legislation and sustainable design featuring high on the agenda.

The show that takes place 22-23 January at Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie in Pairs, provides the opportunity for cosmetics and perfumery manufacturers to meet packaging suppliers, as well as featuring a two day conference programme.

The effect of nanotechnology, the REACH legislation and increasing concern of the environment are some of the key issues discussed during the conference.

L'Oreal's director of packaging research Alain Béthune will chair Wednesday morning's session focusing on packaging innovations that take into account the environment.

Speaking about the topic Bethune said: "Today, awareness of the sustainable development approach has never been greater and innovation cannot fail to integrate the environment.

"Only those that have been able to bring about this integration and develop ecological packaging solutions that meet market expectations will survive."

A number of papers from big industry players will be presented at the conference including Michael Clark's 'Sustainable Packaging: Myth or deliverable reality?' from M-real Consumer Packaging, UK, and William Hitchon form Bormiolo, Rocco and Figlio plastics who will discuss the possibilities of sustainable PET bottles.

In addition, Seidel CEO Dr Andreas Ritzenhoff will discuss how nanotechnology influences packaging within the beauty industry.

Dr Martina Hirayama from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences will continue the theme focussing on the potential benefits provided by nanotechnology compared to unmodified plastics for example reduced flammability and gas permeability.

Furthermore, Dr Jean Paul Marty from the University of Paris XI will present a keynote speech about the effect of the REACH chemical legislation on the cosmetics and perfumery packaging industry.

An awards ceremony rounds off the proceedings with the presentation of the PCD award for 'packaging innovations' and 'formulation - packaging complementarities' as judged by a jury of packaging manufacturers and media working in the cosmetics and perfumery field.

The organisers expect over 1,200 participants this year representing many of the leading global brands, an increase on the 1,000 participants seen in 2006.