We demand a great deal from modern packaging materials. We expect brands to consider many factors when selecting packaging: safety, recyclability, functionality and product appeal. Furthermore, choosing the right packaging can be an important aspect of a brand's marketing strategy. What should brands and the packaging industry conclude if they decide to switch to bio-based plastics, such as PEF?
Sustainability is one of the most frequently mentioned factors justifying the shift to bioplastics. The good news is that it is not the only one. In this article, we examine from various aspects the four main benefits provided by switching to PEF.
1. A non-fossil-based alternative
As we likely already know, the use of plastics is associated with many problems, such as the release of fossil carbon dioxide into the atmosphere at the end of its life cycle. Moreover, one of the world's most widely used (literally, in mass quantities) plastics – conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) – contains fossil-based terephthalic acid (PTA). Switching to an alternative, polyethylene furanoate (PEF), which uses furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) instead of PTA, could significantly reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Superior properties and benefits
Bioplastic is both the right choice for moving away from fossil resources and possesses specific high-quality properties for packaging needs. For example, PEF has high heat resistance, which makes it attractive for hot-filling applications, as well as for reuse through industrial washing and refilling.
PEF has excellent gas barrier properties for oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapour, which allows for the use of mono-material packaging and extends product shelf life. Using a single material combination can save costs and ensure or simplify recycling.
“If we look at the total packaging costs and the properties required for a specific shelf life, shape or recyclability, using a single material for all these purposes offers a major advantage,” says Dirk den Ouden (Dirk den Ouden), Stora Enso Vice President of New Businesses in the Biomaterials division.
To make the most of this material, Stora Enso has developed a revolutionary technology FuraCore®, which enables the production of FDCA in a cost-effective manner and at scale, laying the foundations for meaningful plastic.
3. Bioplastics align with the circular economy
PEF is produced from bio-based crops that regrow, thereby laying the foundations for sustainable packaging that complies with circular principles. It is also fully recyclable, just like traditional PET packaging.
4. Innovation value and brand appeal – sustainable solutions help brands differentiate themselves
Differentiation is an important element of a packaging system. By associating unique properties with their products, brand owners create recognition and authority within their niches, which increases sales as recognition and trust grow.
“If we can use the fundamental properties of materials to offer something better than the industry can currently provide, I believe there are great opportunities for brand owners to get involved,” explains D. den Ouden.
As customers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of the products they purchase, one way to stand out is to look for new sustainable packaging branding opportunities.
“People like products that are not only beautifully and persuasively packaged, but they also like choices that feel good,” notes D. den Ouden.