Revolutionizing Label Substrates for a Circular Economy
Label substrates are rapidly adapting to fulfill the growing demands of circular economy initiatives. This shift involves diverting packaging away from landfills and toward material recovery and clean separation, ultimately repurposing them as feedstock for new labels and packaging products.
Embracing Post-Consumer Recycled Materials
One notable trend is the incorporation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials into label face papers, films, and release liners. These PCR materials must originate from packaging discarded by consumers, reflecting a commitment to genuine recycling.
Advancements in Thin Materials
Simultaneously, research efforts are directed towards creating thinner materials that maintain their original performance characteristics. Thin materials not only reduce raw material usage but also cut down on transportation costs and minimize roll changes during printing.
Sustainable Biomass Sources
Suppliers are increasingly turning to sustainable biomass sources to manufacture paper and film substrates, which can also integrate PCR components. Labels are now playing a pivotal role in the recovery and circular reuse of plastics and glass containers.
Linerless Labels Make a Comeback
Moreover, linerless labels are making a resurgence as research and development efforts focus on their adoption in the primary (prime) label market.
Innovations in Shrink Sleeve Labels
This commitment to sustainability extends to shrink sleeve labels, with innovations addressing the challenge of separating PET container material from PET shrink sleeves, ensuring ink contamination does not disrupt PET recycling streams. Additionally, Klöckner Pentaplast introduced SmartCycle Pro, a shrink sleeve label film that is recyclable in the RIC (Resin Identification Code) 1 stream and made from 30 percent certified post-consumer recycled material.
Leading Companies Champion Sustainability
Labelexpo Europe 2023 witnessed various companies introducing sustainable labeling solutions. Ahlstrom introduced Acti-V RF Natural glassine release paper, containing a minimum of 15% PCR cellulose fiber. Avery Dennison showcased recycling-friendly adhesive constructions for glass and PET containers, along with new linerless products. Bio4Life presented compostable materials for fruit labels, while Delfort offered lightweight glassine options.
Advancements Beyond Labeling
Additionally, notable trends in the wider production sphere included a shift toward water-washable flexo plates and processors to eliminate solvents from the press room, LED-UV curing systems for energy efficiency, and water-based coatings and adhesives. Companies like Actega and Kurz demonstrated innovations to reduce foil waste through digital metalization technology.
The Labelexpo Europe 2023 underscored the industry’s commitment to sustainability and the pursuit of eco-friendly labeling solutions.