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the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation( PPWR). This means we are helping more of our customers to deliver on plastic replacement by using naturally occurring materials or simply reducing the current plastic content of their packaging.
Fiber-based material can have challenges; it is porous so allows gases to pass through. Barrier technology can enhance this material and help meet current market challenges, but it is not a one size fits all. We work on bespoke solutions for our customers that ensure protection and effective delivery throughout a supply chain cycle, where there are many interactions between the environment, the packaging, and the product.
3. In what ways are you innovating for more effective barrier coatings, and what challenges are you working to overcome?
Due to pressure from legislation and market needs, there are increasing numbers of new developments to replace oil-based barriers with innovative options that are coming from biomass or natural polymers. Many materials that are being investigated currently will become the next generation of barrier materials.
Often, we are co-creating, working in partnership with different universities and research institutes, and with our strategic suppliers to improve barrier functionality. We are also seeking alternatives to fossil-based barriers which can be used in our existing equipment and machines.
The main challenges that we face are related to performance and cost. For example, some of the most sustainable barriers are sensitive to water but can usually provide effective protection against grease and often to gases. New materials are usually more expensive that the traditional ones, so it is not always possible to apply them in the business, but this will change in time as we continue to innovate.
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