RDM Group has partnered with biodegradable film specialist Ecopol to introduce a new recyclable barrier board aimed at meeting evolving European circular packaging requirements.
The collaboration brings together RDM Group’s recycled fibre cartonboard and Ecopol’s PVOH-based functional film. The resulting laminate is designed to offer packaging solutions that are both high-performing and recyclable, even for aroma-sensitive and food-related uses.
One of the longstanding challenges in using recycled board for food packaging is contamination by mineral oils commonly used in food processing. The new laminate addresses this with a PVOH film that acts as a functional barrier, enabling the material to achieve Class A recyclability within existing fibre-recycling systems.
Ecopol’s PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol) film is biodegradable, water-soluble, and transparent. It serves as a barrier to oxygen, grease, moisture, and mineral oils, supporting shelf-life and product integrity across multiple packaging formats.
“By pairing our functional barrier film with RDM Group’s board, we will create packaging that’s not only functional, but fully recyclable,” said Mauro Bonfiglio, Ecopol’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing.
The partnership aims to offer alternatives to virgin plastic while supporting scalable circular solutions. Both companies view this cross-industry initiative as aligned with the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) goals.
“This pioneering collaboration is an example of the new, cross-industry links that need to be created to meet the demands of the PPWR,” said Krzysztof Krajewski, Chief Innovation and Sustainability Officer at RDM Group.
The companies are now seeking brand and converter partners to develop packaging applications using the new barrier board.