A life cycle assessment conducted by Metsä Board has reportedly concluded that switching from white-lined chipboard (WLC) to Metsä’s folding boxboard can reduce the carbon footprint of food packaging by over 60%.
The LCA study, which compared MetsäBoard Classic FBB to corresponding grades available in European markets, was verified by the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute.
The reduction in carbon footprint is said to be possible due to the high share of fossil-free energy used in Metsä Board’s manufacturing process and the light weight of fresh fibre paperboards. Although the firm’s folding boxboards are typically lighter than similar products made of recycled fibres, they are described as retaining the durability and functional properties of traditional heavier grades thanks to fresh wood fibres used in their production.
“Over the past year, we have completed verified LCA assessments across three key packaging segments, which include beautycare, healthcare, and now food packaging,” said Anne Uusitalo, product safety and sustainability director at Metsä Board. “These comprehensive studies offer brand owners fact-based data and insights into the potential of our paperboards, helping them make informed decisions on how they can reduce the carbon footprint of their packaging as well as their Scope 3 emissions.”
