Elopak has introduced a new line of fiber-based D-Pak cartons designed to meet the European Union’s incoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). In collaboration with Orkla Home and Personal Care (OHPC) and materials supplier Dow, the cartons incorporate both recycled and bio-based polymers, signaling a shift toward more compliant and sustainable packaging formats.
Each carton is constructed from paperboard sourced from certified forests and features protective polymer layers. Notably, 10% of the plastic component is made from post-consumer recycled polyethylene (PE), while the remainder uses bio-circular polymers derived from vegetable waste, including used cooking oil.
“We are early movers in offering this innovative mix of circular and bio-circular materials,” said Emilie Olderskog, Director of Sustainability at Elopak. “This not only reduces plastic waste going to landfill but also contributes to our Scope 3 emissions reduction target of 25%.”
The move comes in direct response to upcoming EU rules requiring packaging to include a minimum level of recycled content by 2030. For Elopak, aligning with these mandates is part of a broader effort to future-proof packaging systems while reducing reliance on fossil-based plastics.
“By introducing circular PE as a standard, we’re strengthening our ability to meet customer sustainability expectations while proactively preparing for EU regulations on recycled content,” said Anne Marheim Støren, Sustainability Director at OHPC.
The D-Pak cartons are now rolling out across OHPC brands in the Nordic market, including laundry and fabric care products under labels such as Klar, OMO, and Comfort. The application of circular materials in liquid product packaging marks a tangible shift for the region’s packaging standards.
Dow, which supplies the polymer technology, emphasized the importance of such partnerships. “We aim to support the transition to a lower-carbon, circular economy,” said Marian Gmenta, Marketing Lead at Dow. “These solutions help our partners stay ahead of regulatory goals.”
This development reflects broader industry momentum in the MEA region, where regulatory alignment and material circularity are becoming central to packaging strategies.