Reimagining Packaging: Fiber-based solutions take the spotlight

For whom are fiber-based packaging solutions particularly relevant?

Bröllochs: Fiber-based packaging solutions can be used many ways. Brand manufacturers from the food, cosmetics, and household goods sectors are increasingly turning to fiber-based alternatives. Packaging producers are also showing interest in future-proofing their portfolios and creating new emerging markets.

And why are more companies opting for these solutions?

Bröllochs: There are several reasons for this. From an environmental point of view, fiber-based packaging is part of a natural carbon cycle. Plants absorb CO₂ and bind it. The carbon is retained until recycling or composting. After that, the CO₂ is released, without any additional burden on the atmosphere.  Companies are increasingly recognizing the advantages of such circular models, especially regarding regulatory developments and rising expectations along the supply chain.

What economic aspects play a role in the changeover?

Bröllochs: Fiber-based materials are part of existing recycling systems and can be collected and processed efficiently. This reduces disposal costs. In addition, packaging made of paper or cardboard can be recycled up to seven times. In Germany, the return rate for waste paper is over 75 %. For plastics, it is only about 30 – 40 % across the EU, and as low as around 10 % worldwide.  At the same time, the demand for sustainable packaging in the consumer goods sector and in the B2B segment is increasing. Companies that take action early on are better prepared for regulatory changes. In the EU, for example, a far-reaching catalogue of measures is imminent in the PPWR Packaging Ordinance.

What developments are accelerating this change?

Bröllochs: The demand for ready-to-eat food is rising steadily. These products must be securely packaged, often in individual portions. At the same time, consumer awareness of origin, material use, and disposability when buying, is also growing. Rising raw material prices are putting pressure on the industry to work in a more resource-efficient way. All of this promotes the use of efficient materials. In addition, today’s new technologies enable fiber-based solutions to be processed economically, even for smaller quantities or individualized formats. However, the processing of fiber materials is not easy. Compared to plastic, paper is more sensitive to moisture and has different tear strengths, which require special technology. Technological flexibility, which allows a wide variety of fiber materials to be processed efficiently and precisely, is also crucial.

Optima develops sophisticated machinery used to efficiently produce high-quality fiber-based packaging including new technologies in dry molded fiber and a new generation of paper forming. With the most comprehensive technology offering for fiber-based packaging, we are a one-stop partner for customers seeking rigid containers made of various fiber-based materials.