Sappi Unveils Eco-Friendly Flexible Packaging Papers: Paving the Way for Sustainable Solutions

Sappi has introduced two new flexible packaging papers crafted from renewable raw materials, offering recyclable alternatives to fossil-based packaging. The Seal Light Gloss paper boasts a heat-sealable coating on its reverse side, providing high-quality printing options and recyclability via the paper waste stream. The Guard MH paper, available in Natural, Silk, and Gloss variants, features resistance against water vapour, mineral oils, and grease, catering to both food and non-food products. These innovative papers support Sappi’s commitment to sustainable practices, with the company actively developing more options for special applications.

René Köhler, Director of Paper & Packaging Solutions at Sappi Europe, emphasizes their dedication to offering recyclable alternatives to non-recyclable packaging, aligning with the industry’s sustainability priorities. Both Seal Light Gloss and Guard MH papers are produced at Sappi’s Alfeld mill in Germany, using a barrier coating machine commissioned in spring 2023.

In a joint effort with Xeikon, Sappi has previously worked on printing a new toner formulation directly onto flexible, paper-based packaging materials to preserve recyclability. Other industry players, like LC Paper and UPM Specialty Papers, are also making strides in sustainable packaging with CO2-neutral processes and certifications for compostability, respectively. Sappi remains committed to developing solutions that benefit both consumers and branded goods manufacturers, with plans to introduce new functional papers for special applications in the near future.