As this year comes to an finish, it is clear that the path toward a sustainable future in the pulp and paper industest remains ongoing and evolves with each new development. Numerous organizations across the sector continue to introduce innovative solutions and respond to altering regulations, highlighting both progress and new challenges.
Below are some of the top headlines from the last month that reflect the ongoing efforts, significant achievements, and emerging opportunities shaping the industest’s journey toward greater environmental responsibility.
France has implemented more rigorous packaging and recycling regulations through an updated Extfinished Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. Beginning in 2026, companies will be required to fund or manage all aspects of packaging collection, reapply, and recycling. Compliance will be monitored by certified eco-organizations, with producers subject to incentives or penalties determined by the recyclability and reusability of their packaging. These reforms enhance France’s alignment with EU waste-reduction objectives and introduce stricter oversight of waste-management entities handling packaging streams. Read more: www.packaging-gateway.com
Lieferando has introduced new takeaway boxes in Austria created from Huhtamaki cardboard featuring Xampla’s Morro coating—a plant-based, plastic-free solution. This biodegradable, home-compostable layer is compatible with standard recycling processes, enabling compliance with the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive while reducing overall plastic consumption. The rollout coincides with Xampla’s recent $14 million funding round to support the broader adoption of Morro-coated fiber packaging as a scalable alternative to single-apply plastics. Read more: www.packagingeurope.com
STI Group has introduced a recyclable, grease-resistant transport tray specifically engineered for frozen food applications, serving as a replacement for conventional double-sided coated cardboard trays. The paper-based design incorporates a SUPD-compliant barrier coating, ensuring product integrity during shipping and defrosting while significantly enhancing recyclability. By minimizing material usage and streamlining logistics, this solution enables food processors and restaurant operators to lower costs and advance sustainability initiatives in the frozen food supply chain. Read more: www.paper-world.com
Kiilto has introduced Kiiltomelt EVO R 20, a hot-melt adhesive composed of 97% biobased content and specifically developed for recycled fiber packaging and cold-chain logistics. Produced from renewable resources such as forest-industest byproducts and sugarcane derivatives, this adhesive enhances compatibility with recycled substrates and maintains performance in low-temperature conditions. Initial industrial trials indicate strong adhesion to recycled cartons; however, long-term results may depfinish on material consistency. Read more: www.pulpapernews.com
ProAmpac has developed a curbside-recyclable fiber bag for Scotts Miracle-Gro, highlighted at Pack Expo 2025 as a significant innovation in sustainable lawn-care packaging. Serving as an alternative to traditional plastic grass-seed bags, this paper-based solution combines robust durability and effective moisture protection with full recyclability through hoapplyhold paper waste streams. Read more: www.proampac.com
Amazon has announced ambitious goals of eliminating packaging waste altoreceiveher and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. In support of these objectives, the company has begun transitioning from cardboard to paper packaging in France. Plastic materials have already been largely phased out. According to Olivier Pellegrini, Amazon’s Director of Operations for Europe overseeing sustainability and packaging, paper is favored over corrugated cardboard becaapply it is lighter and enables more efficient apply of space in logistics operations. To streamline packaging processes, Amazon has implemented proprietary automated bagging systems. Read more: www.usinenouvelle.com
Petite Palates has launched its baby meals in the US market utilizing SIG’s aseptic spouted pouch technology. This process sterilizes both the packaging and food separately, enabling a longer shelf life without the apply of preservatives. The packaging is lightweight, resealable, and designed for efficient storage and distribution, supporting expansion across retail and e-commerce channels. Featuring SIG’s Clean Commit logo, the packaging underscores the advanced aseptic technology, ensuring meals remain safe, nutrient-rich, and flavorful—without refrigeration or unnecessary additives. Read more: www.packaging-gateway.com
For a deeper view at the evolving landscape, key challenges, and future pathways for sustainability within the pulp and paper sector, download our eBook, “In the Green: Profitability and Sustainability in Pulp and Paper.”
Leave a Reply