Following BOTTA EcoPackaging’s recognition at the Premio Impresa e Valore 2026, our Vice President, Lara Botta, reflects on the role of business in supporting local development and creating long-term value for the community in this Lara Botta interview. Founded in 1947, BOTTA brings more than 79 years of experience to its work, combining sustainable packaging solutions with collaboration with schools and institutions, investment in young talent and a commitment to equal opportunities.
A two-way relationship between business and its local community
At BOTTA EcoPackaging, our connection with the local community has grown alongside our business. Based in the Milan area, we have developed our expertise over the years while remaining closely connected to the people and institutions around us. We see this relationship as an important part of who we are and how we do business.
“We believe it is the responsibility of all companies to make a contribution,” says Lara Botta. “We like to be present.”
This responsibility is not limited to large organisations. Small and medium-sized enterprises are also part of the economic and social fabric of their communities, and their contribution can take many forms. For BOTTA EcoPackaging, being present means maintaining an active relationship with the local institutions and initiatives that connect business with the wider community.
Supporting young talent and equal opportunities
Our collaboration with schools and institutions creates opportunities to connect our experience in the packaging industry with the next generation. Through educational initiatives, work-based learning and international talent programmes such as Invest Your Talent in Italy, we engage with students and young professionals, helping them gain practical insight into the workplace and develop their skills.
Equal opportunities are another important part of this commitment. We participate in initiatives addressing gender equality and inclusion, including SPEED-FEM, a European project focused on discrimination and the underrepresentation of women. Through these activities, we contribute to a more inclusive professional environment and encourage broader access to opportunities across the manufacturing sector.
Our commitment also extends beyond our own organisation through Lara Botta’s involvement in industry associations, education and initiatives supporting women’s professional development.
Sustainable packaging and innovation
Founded in 1947, we have built our expertise in corrugated cardboard packaging alongside a continued focus on environmental responsibility. Our work includes FSC-certified packaging solutions, the use of recycled materials, consultancy for plastic-free alternatives and support for customers navigating evolving European packaging requirements, including the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
We also explore new ways to make sustainability more accessible. Launched in 2023, PACK HERO: The Eco Adventure is an educational video game that introduces sustainable packaging, material life cycles and the principles of the circular economy through interactive learning.
Our digital innovation work includes iQRcode™, our proprietary solution related to the Digital Product Passport, as well as a free online life cycle assessment (LCA) calculator that helps businesses evaluate the environmental impact of their packaging choices.
These initiatives reflect our approach to packaging: combining technical expertise and tailored consultancy with consideration for material use, environmental performance and evolving customer needs.
Watch the Full Interview with Lara Botta
In the full interview, Lara Botta shares her perspective on corporate responsibility, local development, collaboration with educational institutions and the importance of equal opportunities.
The interview is in Italian with English subtitles.
Watch the full interview on YouTube: BOTTA EcoPackaging Wins Premio Impresa e Valore 2026 | Lara Botta Interview
Read more about our recognition: BOTTA EcoPackaging Wins the Premio Impresa e Valore 2026.
Explore BOTTA EcoPackaging’s packaging solutions: https://www.botta.it/en/all-products/
