MONDI has teamed up with Silbo to upgrade its pallet wrapping from plastic stretch film to Mondi’s kraft paper Advantage StretchWrap.
Silbo has installed the first EW Technology PaperWrap machine at its plant in Żory, Poland and provides flexible packaging for a range of customers, including those supplying fruits and vegetables.
Mondi explained that its Advantage StretchWrap is made with ‘responsibly sourced fibres’ and does not contain plastic or coating. Made from wood as a renewable resource, it is said to be fully recyclable in existing paper waste streams.
Mondi added that it commissioned an independent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) which showed Advantage StretchWrap performs better than standard plastic stretch film in ‘several important environmental impact categories’. The paper has ‘exceptional’ puncture-resistance combined with high stretch properties providing protection for a range of goods during transportation.
The switch from plastic film to paper has been possible thanks to a close working relationship between Mondi, Silbo and EW Technology. A complete reel of Advantage StretchWrap can be applied to the fully automated machine without any need to re-wind. Mondi claimed the larger dimensions of the Advantage StretchWrap reel mean a replacement is only needed every 400-600 pallets compared to every 40-80 pallets for plastic wrapping saving time and money.
Marcin Śpiewok, CEO at Silbo, said, “We are passionate about supporting global producers in the transition from plastic packaging to more sustainable alternatives and are well-known for our innovative technology and global distribution network. This development not only supports our reputation for sustainability but will also benefit all our customers and their end-users, making quite an impact.
“We are truly excited to be one of the first companies to introduce Advantage StretchWrap into our supply chain and have thoroughly enjoyed the whole process with Mondi and EW Technology.”
Bartosz Babicz, product manager for Advantage StretchWrap at Mondi, added, “This is a huge move for the whole packaging industry and illustrates our MAP2030 commitments – using paper as a renewable and recyclable material to keep materials in circulation and reduce waste. We have worked as a team to empower Silbo in its own goals to be more sustainable.
“Advantage StretchWrap offers an efficient alternative to plastic film and the products still get the same protection, with a very important benefit: the installation offers a sustainable solution for all of Silbo’s customers, improving the sustainability journey of all their pallets on a global scale.”
