Sustainable Innovations and Accomplishments Leading the Pulp and Paper Industry

As global markets increasingly prioritize environmental stewardship, the drive for sustainability continues to reshape the pulp and paper industry. This momentum not only generates new demand for renewable and recyclable materials but also opens the door for innovative product development and operational efficiencies across the value chain.

Companies in this sector are uniquely positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, leveraging expertise and advanced technologies to meet evolving expectations and deliver measurable environmental benefits. Let's take a closer look at some of the headlines from the past month. 

Duracell Advances Battery Packaging with Sustainable Paper-Based Innovation

Duracell has transitioned most of its battery packaging to a fully paper-based format, replacing plastic blisters with recyclable paperboard. This initiative eliminates more than 855,000 pounds of packaging waste each year and lowers CO₂ emissions by 170 metric tons. The new packaging is user-friendly, resealable, and enhances shelf visibility. Validated through consumer testing, this effort demonstrates Duracell’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and greater shopping convenience at leading retailers, including Walmart. Read more: www.thepackhub.com

Ahlstrom Broadens Its Portfolio of Sustainable Solutions for Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Labels

Ahlstrom, recognized for its leadership in fiber-based specialty materials, has introduced an expanded selection of release and label papers designed for pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) applications at Labelexpo Europe 2025. This enhanced portfolio is engineered to advance sustainability and circularity in labeling, featuring low-impact supercalendered release papers that reduce environmental footprint. The product line leverages Ahlstrom’s proprietary Acti-V® technology, delivering an efficient silicone coating and curing process with reduced energy, catalyst, and silicone consumption. Read more: www.ahlstrom.com

Sustainable Paper Production Takes Center Stage Globally

Sustainable paper manufacturing is receiving increased global attention as digital advancements drive industry innovation. McKinsey research indicates that the future growth of the paper and forest products sector will be shaped by economic trends, population increases, and escalating consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

Shifting demographics and evolving preferences for sustainability and convenience are influencing consumer packaging. In the coming years, the rise of e-commerce will accelerate growth in transport packaging, prompting new strategies and product diversification to meet the expectations of sustainability-focused consumers. Read more: www.packagingpla.net

Amazon Achieves Significant Packaging Reduction in European Shipments

Amazon reports that more than half of its European shipments are now delivered in recyclable packaging materials—such as paper or cardboard—or with no packaging at all, resulting in the elimination of over 4 million metric tons of packaging since 2015. These reductions were accomplished through targeted initiatives focused on minimizing packaging, increasing the use of paper-based materials, and optimizing package sizing for efficiency. Read more: www.packagingeurope.com

Germany Introduces New Packaging Recyclability Standards

Germany will implement updated packaging recyclability standards on January 1, 2026. Developed by the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) and the German Environment Agency (UBA), these annually revised rules require packaging to be designed for real-world recycling processes. The 2025 guidelines expand coverage to all packaging types under the forthcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and include clearer measurement requirements, helping companies align with the latest recyclability criteria. Read more: www.packaging-gateway.com

Saica Fresh Delivers Sustainable Packaging for Produce

Saica Group has introduced ‘Saica Fresh,’ a comprehensive line of sustainable packaging solutions tailored for the fresh produce sector. Engineered to extend shelf life, minimize waste, and maintain food safety, Saica Fresh integrates advanced food science with intelligent packaging technologies to support every stage of the supply chain, from growers to retailers. Read more: www.packagingeurope.com

If you would like a deeper analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing the pulp and paper industry as it advances toward sustainability, download our eBook, "In the Green: Profitability and Sustainability in Pulp and Paper."