DS Smith To Try Out Innovative Packaging Solutions to Replace Plastics

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): DS Smith announced that it is currently experimenting a wide range of alternative fibers in replacement of plastic in making packaging solutions. The materials include straw, daisies, hemp, cocoa shells and seaweed.

The innovative efforts are part of the company’s previously announced £100m R&D and Innovation plan. Incidentally, the company aims to make the most of every single fibre it uses by 2030.

According to company press release, initial trials have been undertaken to explore how seaweed may be used as a raw material in the manufacturing of carton, paper wrap and cardboard tray packaging. Currently, the Innovation Team is trialling cocoa shells for carton board in chocolate packaging. The other alternative materials under consideration include agricultural waste in the form of straw and plants such as hemp.

These require significantly less energy and water during production phase, upon comparison with traditional paper-making materials. Some of these processes guarantee consumption of 50% less energy and 95% less water, compared with traditional pulping processes.

Thomas Ferge, Paper and Board Development Director, DS Smith noted that the research activities undertaken by the company has the potential to lessen pressure on forests and protect its natural resources.

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

DS Smith Expanded Online Monitoring System for Paper Machine

DS Smith Eliminated 313 Million Pieces of Problem Plastic