Global Brands Unite for Paper-Based Packaging Revolution

Global consumer goods companies have come together to accelerate the development of paper-based alternatives to flexible plastic packaging. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation and (RE)SET convened six founding members, including Colgate-Palmolive, Mars, Nestlé, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, and Unilever, for the PaperFlex Consortium.

The consortium aims to design paper-based alternatives that are recyclable as collection systems improve and biodegradable in case they end up in the environment. They will focus on markets where flexible plastic packaging is widely used but lacks recycling systems.

The members plan to collaborate on joint research and development efforts to accelerate innovations in areas such as biodegradable coatings and technologies that deliver product protection, shelf life, and consumer usability.