Global packaging supplier Elopak has launched a new paperboard aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of chilled liquid cartons. The Natural White Board, developed in collaboration with Stora Enso, delivers up to 14% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to cartons made with standard board.
The new material retains the same functional performance as Elopak’s standard white board but with a simplified coating process that results in a naturally smooth finish. This process allows for a reduction in polyethylene use, contributing to its lower environmental impact.
“Drawing upon decades of innovation, the Pure-Pak® carton remains iconic in fiber-based packaging. With the introduction of the Natural White Board, customers can further improve their carbon footprint significantly,” said Uwe Schulze, Executive Vice President Product and Development at Elopak. “This latest innovation empowers our customers to choose a more sustainable packaging solution.”
Elopak modeled the development of this new board on its Natural Brown Board, first introduced in 2017. Like its predecessor, the Natural White Board avoids clay coatings and minimizes plastic use. It uses bleached fibers only in the top layer, giving it a clean white look while reducing the need for energy-intensive production processes.
Michael Olsson, Technical Account Manager at Stora Enso, added, “We are proud of this innovation and are pleased to work with our long-term partner Elopak to give companies and consumers more options for sustainable packaging.”
Rørosmeieriet, a Norwegian organic dairy, was the first to use the new board. CEO Trond Vilhelm Lund said, “We are surrounded every day by the beauty of nature and want all aspects of our business to protect it.”
Coop Norway, the first retailer to launch the cartons to consumers, confirmed its commitment to sustainable packaging through its Änglamark brand.