Hot off the press! Read all about it! Molded pulp packaging is here to stay. Across the globe, an environmental consciousness is taking heed as industries look for sustainable packaging to replace non-environmentally friendly containers. Pulp fiber fits the bill perfectly, however, DON’T BE FOOLED! There are PET laminated containers being sold with the caption stating they are biodegradable. PET, polyethylene terephthalate, is used for water bottles which are most certainly recyclable. It is non-toxic, strong and flexible and not necessarily biodegradable. There are other laminates that are biodegradable and compostable. For instance, PLA, also known as polylactic acid, is different than most thermoplastic polymers because it is made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugar cane. Whereas most plastics are derived from nonrenewable petroleum reserves. These plastics are known as bioplastics because they are derived from biomass or organic material from our earth. PLA is relatively cost effective to produce and is the second largest volume bioplastic used today.
Molded pulp packaging is showing up everywhere.
Molded pulp packaging is showing up everywhere. No longer will you find it just holding a dozen eggs, but the pulp is being molded into applications to hold your new smart phone, electronics, cosmetics and even your new razor. The pulp is made from virgin fibers that are sustainable. It is then cured-in-mold and baked to perfection. This is known as a type 3 molded pulp that has smooth surfaces, clean edges and a natural white color. It carries the claim of biodegradable and being compostable because it is. Many of these packaging products can be laminated with a PLA polymer which would allow it to hold liquid, be microwavable and hold to temperatures of 320F. So, when in doubt, ask the experts, MPE to learn about your best options for sustainable packaging.
