Sustainability continues to drive transformation across the pulp and paper industry, with companies accelerating innovation to reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance and profitability. From fiber-based packaging breakthroughs to carbon reduction milestones and alternative energy trials, this month’s developments highlight how industry leaders are rethinking materials, processes, and product design. Here’s a look at the latest advancements pushing the sector toward a more circular and low-carbon future.
ProAmpac, a leading global company in flexible packaging and material science, announces the expansion of its ProActive Recyclable® RP-2000 High Barrier Series. This fiber-based, curbside recyclable packaging platform helps brands move away from traditional non-recyclable high-barrier multilayer structures like paper/foil, paper/metalized polyethylene terephthalate (METPET), and some film laminations. The RP-2000 offers strong barriers against oxygen and moisture, making it ideal for sensitive dry foods such as oatmeal, granola, cereal, spices, snacks, dried fruits, and nuts. Read more: www.markets.financialcontent.com
The Navigator Company is now the supplier of molded fiber disposable plates and bowls for Kasa, Continente's private-label homeware brand. Made in Portugal from 100% virgin forest fiber obtained from responsibly managed forests, these products meet European food-contact standards and demonstrate both companies’ dedication to sustainable, locally produced single-use solutions. Read more: www.thenavigatorcompany.com
Yuhan-Kimberly announced its new "Kleenex Washable Biodegradable Sanitary Towel" made from eco-friendly biodegradable fabric. The company aims to reach 95% of its sales from sustainable products by 2030, extending its range with innovative offerings like "Huggies Naturemade Diapers," crafted from sugarcane biomass, and "Kleenex Paper Wet Wipes," produced with plastic-free fabric. Read more: www.yuhan-kimberly.co.kr
Pro Carton, the European trade organization for cartonboard and carton producers, announced that the carton packaging sector has reduced cradle-to-gate fossil carbon emissions by 8% since 2021. The study, carried out by the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) and independently validated by the Institut für Energie- und Umweltforschung (ifeu) in Germany, confirms the progress. According to Pro Carton, the annual cradle-to-gate fossil carbon footprint has decreased from 929 kg CO2 equivalent to 854 kg CO2 equivalent per ton. Read more: www.packagingeurope.com
A pulp mill in British Columbia, operating for over 50 years, will trial replacing natural gas—its source of carbon emissions—with eco-friendly ‘green’ hydrogen produced from water. This innovative method is projected to cut greenhouse gases from the Kruger Kamloops Pulp Mill by 7,000 tons annually, which is comparable to removing 1,200 to 1,500 cars from the roads, said Zachary Steele, CEO of Elemental Clean Fuels, based in New York, the company behind the project. Read more: www.theglobeandmail.com
Visy is launching an Australian-made Paper Bubble Wrap as part of its initiative to reduce single-use plastics. This paper-based cushioning material is intended for storing, moving, or shipping items and can be recycled using Australian curbside recycling bins. Read more: www.packagingnews.com.au
As these updates demonstrate, sustainability in pulp and paper is no longer a future ambition—it’s an active, evolving reality. Companies that successfully balance environmental responsibility with operational efficiency are positioning themselves for long-term growth in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
To explore how sustainability can also drive profitability—and what it takes to stay competitive in this changing landscape—download our eBook, In the Green: Profitability and Sustainability in Pulp and Paper. Discover actionable insights, industry trends, and strategies to help your organization thrive while advancing its sustainability goals.