A Natural Partnership for Sustainability in Wood Packaging

The collaboration between Stora Enso and Novapor is based on a shared vision of reducing the environmental impact of packaging. Juulia Kuhlman, Director of Business Development at Stora Enso Biofoams, explained, “Collaborating with Novapor is a natural fit for us. With 50 years of experience in developing innovative packaging, they consistently go the extra mile to solve their clients’ challenges. This curiosity and drive have been key to the success of our pilot project.”

The introduction of Papira represents a significant step forward in making the industry’s packaging more sustainable. Traditional packaging materials, such as polyethylene foam, are being replaced by a solution that is both biodegradable and recyclable. The new wood fibre-based foam is an important addition to the growing demand for mono-material packaging that is fully recyclable within paper and cardboard streams.

Meeting the Demand for Mono-Material Packaging
Novapor Nordic, part of the Novapor group, identified a growing need among their clients for a more eco-friendly packaging solution. For example, Københavns Møbelsnedkeri, a high-end bathroom mirror manufacturer, needed a sustainable alternative to polyethylene foam. The company wanted a mono-material packaging solution that would be fully recyclable, aligning with their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.

“The transition to wood fibre-based solutions is a crucial next step in packaging. Mono-material packaging made entirely of cardboard and paper, rather than plastic combinations, is highly relevant for our client,” said Thomas Søgaard, Head of Novapor Nordic. His team began collaborating with Stora Enso two years ago, working to perfect the process of converting Papira for use. “Switching from fossil-based PU or PE to paper fibre requires redesigning the packaging to suit the unique characteristics of cellulose foam, but the results have been impressive,” Søgaard explained.

Challenges and Advantages of Wood Fibre-Based Packaging
Switching to a wood fibre-based foam like Papira offers numerous advantages, but it also comes with some challenges. The material is easier to handle and convert than conventional foams, with no dust or static electricity, which makes it ideal for woodworking applications. Moreover, the ability to use water-based glues rather than hot glue makes the solution even more sustainable.

Novapor is known for its expertise in conversion using water jet cutting machines, and adapting their processes to handle Papira® has been key to successfully bringing this new material to market. “We’ve been able to overcome the challenges of converting paper-based foam materials with great success,” said Søgaard. “The collaboration with Stora Enso has been vital in ensuring that the market is ready for Papira® as soon as it is ready for mass production.”

A More Sustainable Future for Packaging in Woodworking
The pilot project between Stora Enso and Novapor is just the beginning. The goal is to expand the use of Papira® across the woodworking industry, providing a more sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging. As the industry faces growing regulations on waste management and recycling, the ability to recycle packaging materials through regular paper and cardboard streams becomes even more important.

“The rules and regulations on waste management are strict, but they will become even stricter by 2030. Offering a foam material that can be recycled in regular paper and cardboard streams is a significant advantage,” Kuhlman said. This is crucial for companies in the industry looking to stay ahead of future regulations while maintaining their commitment to sustainability.

Biodegradability and Lower Carbon Footprint
Both Stora Enso and Novapor are committed to reducing the carbon footprint of the packaging industry. As Søgaard notes, “Biodegradability and lowering your carbon footprint are hot topics for our clients. We are proud to support Stora Enso and Papira®, and they are supporting us in turn. It is a great collaboration.”

This partnership is already reaching clients who are excited about the benefits of wood foams. Københavns Møbelsnedkeri is one of the pilot projects, and Stora Enso is thrilled to be part of their transition to sustainable wood foams. “We are very excited for the future,” Kuhlman said.

Expanding the Reach of Sustainable Wood Packaging
Novapor continues to reach out to potential clients in industries where Papira® can offer both functional and branding benefits. The wood fibre-based foam is especially suitable for premium products, like those in the woodworking sector, where packaging not only needs to be functional but also align with brand values of sustainability.

Stora Enso’s innovative Papira material, combined with Novapor’s expertise in conversion and design, promises to reshape the future of packaging in the woodworking industry. As demand for sustainable packaging grows, the impact of this collaboration will be felt worldwide, offering eco-friendly alternatives to conventional packaging while supporting the industry’s shift towards more sustainable practices.

The collaboration between Stora Enso and Novapor is leading the way towards a sustainable future for packaging in the woodworking industry. With Papira, both companies are pioneering new, wood fibre-based solutions that reduce carbon footprints, offer recyclability, and meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. As the industry embraces these innovative materials, Stora Enso and Novapor are setting a new standard for eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Source: Stora Enso