Issue 06/2020

Films/Flexibles/Bags
In the case of Numi’s Tea, exchanging EarthFirst PLA for
BOPP in 100 million sachets translates to 90,000 tonnes of
CO2 or the equivalent of 375 million miles of driving.
Wander Beyond Brewing’s PLA change from PETg in 5
million shrink decoration sleeves translates to 69,900,000
tree seedlings being grown for 10 years.
Positive even with limited compostable
infrastructure
Brands are transitioning to biobased AND biodegradable
packaging even with currently limited industrial
compostable infrastructure. There are still benefits to PLA
films, and bioplastic packages in general, even if packages
do not make their way to an industrial composter. One of the
greatest benefits is a lower greenhouse gas (GHG) impact.
Sourcing naturally from annually-renewable plants (with
no competition to human crops), is more environmentally
positive. Even if a compostable package ends in a solid
waste stream, it has a positive Origin of Life (OOL) and
decouples from traditional fossil-fuel based packages.
Compostable packaging provides an unparalleled
opportunity to capture food waste. Europe generates an
estimated 52 million tonnes of food waste annually at Retail
and Consumer levels combined [1]. Industrial Compost sites
that accept packaging encourage food waste in packaging.
Closed loop systems
Quick service restaurants and sports venues are ideal
candidates for compostable packaging.
PLA sealant films within sandwich wrap and foodservice
pouches are functioning today in closed loop systems within
quick service restaurants and sports venues. An important
added benefit is food waste diversion with packaging waste.
Bioplastic packages have a different feel and sound.
Consumers will likely notice a different feel and sound with
PLA film packaging. There’s often a sound of sustainability
depending on package materials. Positively communicating
this intentional difference to consumers is encouraged.
The best way to accelerate compostable packaging
transitions is by talking with bioplastic material
manufacturers. A great place to start is material suppliers
who manufacture base films while also coordinating with
packaging converters who manufacture packaging. Both
are excellent resources into what is possible for biobased
packages.
Often, material suppliers have great knowledge of, and
great connections with, material manufacturers who supply
other layers of a package. Not to put too fine a point on
it – PLA sealant film companies have healthy relationships
with bioplastic print web companies. It is likely, very likely,
they’ve already tested multiple iterations of their films. Call
on them.
Home Compostable PLA
Home Compostable PLA sealant films will be available
near term. Home Compostable development is underway
and expected in 2021. With either an additive or a blend of
PLA and other biocomposites – PHA for example – home
compostable films become a near term option. Importantly,
in a package lamination, all individual materials would also
need to be home compostable for certification.
Commercial globally today
Modifying packages with bioplastic PLA film is
straightforward. Any sustainable step is positive. Non
barrier, softer (more PE like) and barrier sealant films are
commercial today.
One of the greatest opportunities for source reduction is
optimizing packages from 3 to 2 layer structures. EarthFirst
barrier sealant films – both clear and metalized – combine
barrier and sealant into one film.
PLA sealant films can be used in an extensive range of
flexible packages and as shrink sleeve decoration films.
Ideal formats for sealant films are any type of pouch -
stick pack, fin seal, stand up pouch, 3 side seal, fractional
packages. In terms of packaged product these are packages
containing powder and dry mixes, fruit + nut, tea, coffee,
nutritional bars, pet treats and any food product in a flexible
package.
PLA bioplastic films are commercial globally and
widely in the market today. Brands are reducing plastic in
packaging which is naturally lowering their carbon footprint
and enhancing brand equity. Hopefully this increased brand
equity translates to more successful products and more
profitable businesses. What are you waiting for?
References:
[1] Recommendations for Action in Food Waste Prevention, Developed by
the EU Platform of Food Losses and Food Waste, 12 December 2019
www.sidaplax.com
Photo: Wander Beyond Brewing
bioplastics MAGAZINE [06/20] Vol. 15 21