Environmental
sustainability and business do not go hand in hand especially when it comes to
product packaging. Packaging has always been an important part of commercial
business however; the materials used in the process have recently been
identified as a cause for concern. Pressure has been put on the big business
companies to reduce their extensive plastic use and other operations that
involve use of non biodegradable packaging. Recent efforts are raising
awareness and promoting research about eco friendly packaging. The criteria for
ranking and comparing packaging based on their sustainability is an active area
of development.
Packaging
materials like plastic packets and sheets are not recyclable. Chips packets
make use of multi layered packaging which according to experts is extremely
difficult to treat appropriately. Single serving foods like curds are often
packaged using tough plastics to give them strength. Despite their popular use
these are extremely difficult to recycle. Modern developments “Packaging
Insights: Innovation Scenarios in Sustainable Packaging Material Winners and
Losers as Packaging Markets Become More Environmentally Friendly” are
discovering new materials that can be used as replacements for conventional
methods.
1.
Micro fibrillated
cellulose (MFC) is obtained through a fibrillation process of cellulose fibers.
Using mechanical shearing the cellulose fibers are separated into a network of micro
fibrils with a large surface area. MFC fibers are stronger and stiffer than
glass and carbon fiber whilst more lightweight at the same time. It also is an
excellent moisture and oxygen barrier and can be used in the form of film or
coating. This material can easily be extracted from plant waste thus,
maintaining producers’ price competitiveness.
2.
Polyvinyl alcohol
(PVOH) is a water soluble synthetic polymer. PVOH film is widely used today as
a water soluble packaging material and is considered the next step in eco
friendly packaging with the potential to capture significant market share.
These are used to pack disinfectants, toilet blocks and water treatment
chemicals. These save costs and are eco friendly as they can easily be
disposed.
3.
Ethylene vinyl
alcohol (EVOH) is composed of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. Films of EVOH are in
popular use these days as a packaging material for food. It does not produce
any toxic gases when burnt and produces minimal heat in the process. It is used
for packaging meat and is known to keep flavors fresh.
4.
Polyethylene furan
ate (PEF) is a chemical analogue of Polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This
material is eco friendly and is bio based. This material is being widely
utilized today and faces a rapidly growing demand.
New
mechanical processes are currently under development to enable the use of MFC
materials on an industrial scale. MFC producer WEIDMANN Fiber Technology not
only produces MFC for engineering applications but also provides its expertise
about the material. Dell has used eco friendly bamboo packaging in the past and
has also announced its plans to use only eco friendly packaging in future.
Tom’s of Maine is experimenting with potato starch packaging material. Puma has
and is continuing to make considerable efforts to promote paper packaging.
All
the big companies in the world are shifting from non biodegradable plastic
packaging to the above mentioned materials not only to improve their reputation
but also to attract customers who are now considerably aware about these
issues. All these developments will benefit the environment and sustainable
packaging is expected to grow as an industry.
To know more click on the link below:
Contact Us:
Ken
Research
Ankur
Gupta, Head Marketing & Communications
0124-4230204