Plastic packaging is wreaking havoc on our planet, causing immense harm to our environment and marine life. At GPA Global, we’ve teamed up with Pack360, pioneers in direct printed thermoformed paper solutions, to provide an eco-friendly alternative to secondary plastic packaging “PaperForm”. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the alarming effects of plastic waste, unveil the incredible benefits of thermoformed paper, and showcase how our collaboration is reshaping the future of our sustainable packaging.
Every year, a mind-boggling 8 million metric tons of plastic find their way into our oceans, posing a grave threat to marine life and ecosystems. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s report on The New Plastics Economy emphasizes the urgent need to tackle this global crisis. Plastic waste not only suffocates marine biodiversity but also burdens landfills, where it takes centuries to decompose, exacerbating environmental strain.
The plastic industry’s annual greenhouse gas emissions of around 390 million metric tons contribute significantly to climate change. This data, reported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), highlights the link between plastic production and environmental degradation. Moreover, the extraction and processing of fossil fuels for plastic manufacturing further deplete our non-renewable resources. To combat these challenges, we must explore sustainable alternatives that reduce carbon emissions and promote the use of renewable materials.
Plastic waste poses not only an ecological crisis but also a direct risk to human health. Microplastics, generated by the breakdown of plastic waste, contaminate our food, water sources, and even the air we breathe. Early research raises concerns about potential health issues, including respiratory and immune system problems, linked to microplastic exposure.
Through our partnership with Pack360, we proudly introduce thermoformed paper—a cutting-edge packaging solution. Pack360 specializes in thermoformed paper packaging, utilizing a unique grade called SPS (special paper substance). By infusing SPS with moisture, it becomes incredibly flexible and allows us to create custom designs that align perfectly with your brand’s vision.
Thermoformed paper is a sustainable superhero. Crafted from renewable materials like responsibly sourced wood fibres, it reduces our reliance on non-renewable resources, ensuring a greener future. This packaging marvel is fully recyclable, contributing to a circular economy and minimizing waste. By choosing thermoformed paper, brands demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship while aligning their packaging solutions with sustainability goals.
Compared to traditional pulp-based packaging, thermoformed paper requires less energy during production, reducing carbon emissions. Its drop-in technology seamlessly integrates with existing heat-sealing capabilities, eliminating the need for costly equipment upgrades. This cost-effective solution empowers businesses to adopt thermoformed paper without disrupting operations or breaking the bank.
Thermoformed paper offers boundless design possibilities. Its remarkable malleability enables intricate shapes, contours, and textures that captivate customers and elevate your brand. Whether it’s a unique tray for delicate cosmetics or an eye-catching display for confectionery, thermoformed paper combines aesthetics with functionality.
Unlike traditional plastic packaging, thermoformed paper doesn’t require lamination, making it fully recyclable without compromising quality or aesthetics. By opting for thermoformed paper, brands contribute to a more sustainable waste management system and reduce their environmental footprint. Consumers can easily recycle thermoformed paper packaging, keeping it within the circular economy.
At GPA Global, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive sustainable change. Our partnership with Pack360 and the introduction of thermoformed paper PaperForm as an alternative to plastic packaging mark a significant step toward a greener future. Plastic waste is wreaking havoc on our environment, but by embracing thermoformed paper, we can combat this crisis head-on. Thermoformed paper offers unparalleled advantages: it’s sustainable, customizable, energy-efficient, cost-competitive, and recyclable. It combines functionality with aesthetics, delivering packaging solutions that protect products and enhance brand interactions.
For more information on how thermoformed paper can be integrated into your packaging solution, contact GPA’s head of Material Science and R&D, Mike Marcinkowski at mmarcinkowski@gpaglobal.net.
