Today, fibre-based products are more than just an alternative to traditional materials - they represent a more sustainable future where sustainable use of resources and a reduced carbon footprint are at the heart of everything.
This sector has grown rapidly in recent years, with carton packaging in particular playing an important role as online sales increase. In 2022, cardboard production in Finland will exceed paper production, reflecting a change in consumption patterns and the need for packaging materials. At the same time, fibre-based food packaging will become more common, and its share of food packaging is expected to grow to 40% by 2040 from 30% today.
A changing market
Companies are beginning to recognise the role of sustainability at the heart of their business. This also applies to fibre manufacturers, who are responding to the growing sustainability demands of the market and consumers.
– This trend is reflected in companies not only producing more sustainable products, but also actively communicating their environmental efforts to their stakeholders, such as consumers and investors. In this way, sustainability is reflected throughout the value chain, from the initial stages of a product through to its use and final disposal, says Mikko Mensonen from Nordic Pilot Center.
Legislation encourages more sustainable fibre products
Legislation also supports the growth and development of fibre-based products. For example, the EU has set recycling targets and restrictions for plastic products, encouraging companies to switch to bio-based, more environmentally friendly solutions. This brings new opportunities for fibre product manufacturing, but also challenges: processes need to be developed to meet regulatory requirements while remaining economically viable.
At the heart of the Nordic Pilot Center is a sustainable value chain, from research and development to piloting and up to production readiness.
– In this way, Nordic Pilot Center is helping to create a responsible future for fibre-based products that meet the growing demand and sustainability requirements of both the market and legislation, says Mensonen.
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