Introduction ::
What is SustainPack?
SustainPack is the biggest and most important packaging research project ever undertaken. It is a four year research programme with a budget of €36m. Of this, €19m is being provided by the EU's Sixth Framework Research Programme. The SustainPack project team is comprised of a consortium of 35 partners from 13 countries, representing packaging research associations, academia and industry. The purpose of SustainPack is to establish fibre-based packaging as the dominant player in the packaging area within a decade. It will achieve this by applying nanotechnology solutions to deliver lean and added value fibre-based packaging options for users and consumers.
What is fibre-based packaging and why is it important?
Fibre-based packaging is packaging made from the fibres obtained from natural, sustainable raw materials, most usually wood. The pulp and paper industry is in the front line regarding efficiency and care for the environment. Fibre based packaging has an advantage in that its basic raw material is renewable, recyclable and even degradable. Fibre based packaging is an essential element of all supply chains. Corrugated board contains and protects products during distribution, whilst other paper and board packaging materials provide further properties once products reach the retailers and the consumers. Every day, the typical consumer in Europe interacts with 10 to 20 pieces of packaging. A significant proportion of these packs are constructed predominantly from paper and board or incorporate paper and board components. The fibres in paper and board provide the packs with strength and structure, and coatings and additives can be combined with the fibres to offer high quality print opportunities, grease resistance and other useful properties.
