UPM has introduced UPM Circular Renewable Black, said to be ‘the world’s first’ bio-based, near-infrared (NIR) detectable, carbon-negative pigment, combined with full recyclability for premium packaging solutions.
The company highlights that black packaging has often been associated with recycling challenges as the conventionally used pigments are made from carbon black, which inhibits NIR detection and makes the materials invisible to sorting systems in recycling facilities. Aiming to enable easier recycling, UPM says its new pigment is derived from renewable lignin and certified by third-party standards such as FSC, PEFC and ISCC Plus.
UPM adds that the new Circular Renewable Black is part of its portfolio of CO2-negative solutions produced at its €1.3 billion biorefinery in Leuna, Germany. According to UPM, the facility is the largest industrial-scale investment in biochemicals in Europe and converts sustainably sourced hardwood into ‘next-generation’ biochemicals, seeking to enable the transition from fossil-based to renewable materials across multiple industries.
In related news, paper and board supplier Chapelton revealed its Sustaina range of packaging papers and boards this summer, featuring Sustaina Black – said to be the ‘world’s first’ carbon-free black pigmented barrier-coated paper and board. The product is said to be suitable for direct food contact with grease and moisture resistance.
More recently, Plastic Energy stated it had commercialized ‘char’ - a byproduct of its chemical recycling process - seeking to offer a lower-carbon, circular alternative to carbon black. Claimed to be the first product of its kind to be REACH registered, its production reportedly results in 89% less carbon emissions.
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