Paper Revolution: The Latest in Sustainable Industry Trends

In today's rapidly evolving world, the pulp and paper industry stands at the forefront of sustainability efforts, striving to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As the demand for eco-friendly solutions intensifies, staying informed about the latest advancements becomes crucial for industry stakeholders.

From innovative packaging solutions to groundbreaking recycling initiatives, the industry's commitment to sustainability not only reduces environmental impact but also sets a precedent for other sectors. This blog delves into the latest developments, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in fostering a sustainable future.

DS Smith Partners with Martins Brewery for Recyclable Beer Bottle Packaging

DS Smith has collaborated with Martins Brewery to create recyclable packaging for beer bottles. This packaging is crafted entirely from recycled materials and uses an eco-friendly adhesive. Its straightforward design and manual assembly negate the need for complex machinery or specialized equipment. The corrugated box features a folding system that forms six separate compartments. Inside, Martins Brewery has included interactive mathematical puzzles for customers to engage with the brand’s social ethos. Read more: www.packaginginsights.com

Image Source: DS Smith

EU Comes Out with Clean Industrial Deal; Industry Demands Action on Import of Recycled Raw Materials

The eagerly anticipated Clean Industrial Deal was released on February 26, 2025, and FEDERREC expressed approval for several proposals, including increasing the use of circular materials from 12% to 24% by 2030. Confronted with significant imports of recycled raw materials into the EU, especially from China, which often do not meet European environmental standards, recycling companies are urging prompt action to address the problem. These companies assert that recycling and circular materials should be central to decarbonization efforts to safeguard the environment and maintain a sustainable industry. Public policies need to ensure that companies have dependable and sustainable markets for recycled raw materials in Europe. Read more: www.paperfirst.info

Mondi Designs Paper-Based Pouches for Dishwashing Tabs

Mondi, in partnership with Proquimia, has introduced paper-based stand-up pouches for dishwashing tabs in Spain and Portugal. These flexible pouches hold 20 water-soluble dishwashing tabs. Made from Mondi’s re/cycle FunctionalBarrier Paper, this new solution serves as a paper-based alternative to the previously used plastic packaging. As part of Mondi’s re/cycle portfolio, these pouches are crafted to comply with the recyclability standards in Spain and Portugal. Read more: www.mondigroup.com

Astrabio Uses Koehler's Packaging Paper for Iris Bio Brand of Dried Pasta

Astrabio, a pasta company, has partnered with Koehler Paper to replace plastic with flexible packaging paper for their packs. Koehler Paper provides its recyclable NexPlus Seal Pure range, a heat-sealable paper suitable for standard packaging lines. Astrabio is utilizing this packaging paper for their Iris Bio brand of dried pasta packs. Read more: www.printweek.com

Image Source: Koehler Paper

Huhtamaki Develops Recyclable Single-Coated Paper Cups for Dairy Products

Huhtamaki has introduced ProDairy, a recyclable single-coated paper cup designed for yogurt and dairy products. Featuring less than 10% plastic content throughout its entire product line, it is completely recyclable in Europe. The team at Huhtamaki has developed a varnish to substitute the outer polyethylene layer, preserving a paper-like texture with a matte finish and offering a strong moisture barrier for chilled products. "This is crucial for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, as it ensures our innovative product provides the same functional performance as traditional paper cups but with reduced plastic content while remaining fully recyclable," stated Fredrik Davidsson, President of Fiber Foodservice Europe-Asia-Oceania at Huhtamaki. Read more: www.huhtamaki.com

Marks & Spencer Trials Paper Packaging for Vanilla Chocolate Bars

Marks and Spencer has launched a trial using paper packaging for its Vanilla Fudge chocolate bars. This packaging is recyclable at the curbside and aims to eliminate 1.4 million plastic units from M&S Foodhall throughout 2025. Recently, the retailer switched to cardboard packaging for its Perfectly Ripe Twin Avocado packs and Ripe Avocado lines, reducing plastic usage by an estimated seven million units. Additionally, the retailer introduced porridge pots with a recyclable cardboard wrap that detaches from the plastic pot during recycling, so customers don't need to remove it themselves. Read more: www.packaginginsights.com

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