Breaking the Barriers of Fibre-based Packaging

Breaking the Barriers of Fibre-based Packaging

This Plastic Free July, we are looking at alternatives to plastic packaging. One of the barriers to switching is that fibre-based packaging is not moisture resistant. When it gets damp, paper and cardboard lose rigidity and that can render them useless at holding and protecting the goods inside. So, what is the answer?

One option is to line fibre-based packaging with a plastic coating. This doesn’t eliminate plastic, but it can reduce the volume used. The issue is that this type of coating renders the packaging unrecyclable, as with many takeaway coffee cups. There are specialist recycling firms that can process them, yet this requires designated collection points, rather than disposal in home recycling bins.

New Moisture Resistant Alternatives to Plastic

If moisture resistance issues have prevented your business from switching away from plastic, listen up! New products are being offered by packaging manufacturers, which offer protection, whilst also being recyclable in mainstream collections.

Let us share a few examples:

1. Treated Cardboard

Hyperflute is a type of corrugated cardboard which has been treated with a moisture resistant coating. It has the same appearance as standard cardboard, yet it keeps the contents dry. One downside is that we can’t print or apply our water-based finishes to these boxes. However, might not be an issue if you require plain packaging. The good news is that Hyperflute is fully recyclable, so these boxes can be flattened and left for kerbside collection.

2. Barrier Paper

Packaging supplier Mondi now offers FunctionalBarrier Paper. This thin sheet is a viable substitute for plastic sheet or laminate, yet it can be recycled like any other paper.

3. Barrier Coated Fibre-based Packaging

We offer boxes with a Seigwerk UNILAC barrier coating. This Global Food Standard-compliant solution can be applied to cardboard shipping cartons, takeaway boxes and other packaging that needs to be moisture resistant. Rather than a plastic-based solution, natural resins are used to repel water, oils and grease in this barrier coating.

When we first put this to the test, we filled a small, interior-coated, cardboard box with water, much like a vase. It sat in our office for over a month without any sign of dampness and the box remained rigid and robust. This coating is applied over print finishes, so the packaging can still be branded. When the boxes are pulped for recycling, these resins simply break down.

4. Moisture Resistant Packaging

Earthshot prize winners, NotPla have created moisture resistant packaging with a natural seaweed coating. This is one option in their range, which aims to make packaging waste disappear. Their success in this global challenge to find sustainable packaging solutions has resulted in investment and support to expand the business. As a result, we can expect to see their boxes and seaweed film sachets becoming widely used in the coming years.

5. Biodegradable Caps

Arla has partnered with a Swedish startup company, Blue Ocean Closures, to find a fibre-based alternative to plastic milk carton caps. With funding from Arla, the company are developing and testing a prototype that could be on supermarket shelves next year. The caps are formed from vacuum-pressed, FSC-certified fibres, to which a thin barrier coat is applied. They can be disposed of in paper recycling bins. So, although not currently available, this is a solution to keep your eye on!

Viable Plastic Alternatives

Plastic packaging does play a role in protecting and preserving many goods. If we want to get rid of it, we need viable plastic alternatives; solutions that are affordable and practical. Sustainable packaging solutions make it possible to switch without compromising quality, whilst ensuring that the boxes are widely recyclable.

If you would like to discuss your requirements for moisture resistant packaging get in touch on 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk. We can also provide a sample of Hyperflute cardboard and boxes coated in Seigwerk UNILAC barrier coating. Then you can undertake your own moisture resistant test!

Our team can also advise on other viable alternatives to plastic, including void fillers. Tell us what you want and we’ll advise on the options. What changes can you make during Plastic Free July?

Related article: Is Foam Packaging Sustainable?