DG press Advances Sustainability Efforts in Flexible Packaging Market
The flexible packaging industry is undergoing a significant shift towards sustainability, driven by global trends and evolving regulations, such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in Europe. This regulation places increased pressure on brand owners, packagers, and packaging material converters to design packaging for reuse or enhanced recycling. Additionally, governments are urged to improve their packaging collection and sorting infrastructure, while certain materials face restrictions.
These developments have profound implications for all parties involved in label and packaging printing. The importance of de-inking packaging materials is rising, aiming to obtain cleaner recyclates that can be used for high-value products.
At DG press, we are actively addressing these challenges through joint developments with cross-industry partners. Based on the outcomes, we can provide our customers with systems that produce better sustainable packaging:
1. CPET Shrink Sleeve Innovation: In 2022, we collaborated with a valued customer to produce CPET shrink sleeve samples using an “easy deinking primer” on a VSOP press. The result was a CPET label printed in Offset-UV, that deinks easily and does not interfere with PET bottle recycling streams. Positive deinking test results, according to APR guidelines, were achieved.
2. PE Mono-Material Packaging: In 2023, we partnered with another esteemed customer to create PE mono-material coffee packaging. Applying an oxygen barrier coating with deinking properties, followed by offset-EB printing and flexo matte varnish application, all in one pass, yielded promising results. Lab and pilot line tests demonstrated excellent and rapid deinking capabilities.
3. Innovative Paper Packaging: Currently, we are developing a paper bag with barrier properties and deinking performance through a specialized coating. This coating enhances the moisture barrier of the paper, replacing the traditional PE plastic layer. After deinking, only paper fibres remain, eliminating the need for an extruded PE plastic layer on the paper.
These initiatives underscore DG press’s commitment to driving sustainability in packaging printing and positive change in the flexible packaging industry. With our innovative developments and cross-industry collaborations, we are a partner for our customers on their way towards a more sustainable future for packaging printing.
