UPM has developed a bio-based, black colourant for premium packaging that is recyclable and can be recycled by means of Near infrared-technology (NIR) in the sorting plants.
Black packaging has always been considered a challenge for recycling, as conventional pigments are based on carbon black and are invisible to near-infrared sensors in sorting plants. With the launch of UPM Circular Renewable Black, UPM is now setting a new standard: the world's first bio-based, NIR-detectable and CO₂-negative black colourant for premium packaging is fully recyclable and opens up design scope for sustainable branding.
Design makes the circular economy possible
The colourant is based on lignin, a natural polymer from wood, and, according to the company, meets the requirements of leading sustainability standards such as FSC, PEFC and ISCC Plus. Packaging coloured with UPM Circular Renewable Black is not only easy to sort, but also offers a high-quality appearance thanks to its deep, rich colour.
„We show that design standards and sustainability don't have to be mutually exclusive, but can complement each other perfectly.“
Robert Marx, Vice President Commercial at UPM Biorefining
The innovation is further evidence of UPM's endeavour to deliver science-based solutions for the transformation to a circular bioeconomy.
Part of the Leuna biorefinery project
UPM Circular Renewable Black is part of a broader portfolio of CO₂-negative products that will be produced in the company's new biorefinery in Leuna (Saxony-Anhalt). The 1.3 billion euro industrial site is considered one of the most ambitious investment projects for bio-based chemicals in Europe. Sustainably sourced hardwood is converted into bio-based raw materials there - a significant step towards reducing fossil raw materials in packaging and other industries.
Source: UPM
