Print Innovation Asia Issue 11 2021
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Challenges and Opportunities for Mono-Material Packaging Businesses in Asia The present global demand for mono-material flexible polymer packaging is estimated at 21.5 million tons per annum with a value of nearly USD 59 billion. According to the Smithers report, The Future of Mono-Material Plastic Packaging Film to 2025, the demand for more sustainable solutions will continue to accelerate and exceed USD 71 billion by 2025 with a total of over 26 million tons consumed each year. What is this mono-material that is generating so much interest? It is a product that is composed of a single type of material or a product with components that are made of a single type of material. Mono-materials can ease the maintenance, re-use, and provide effective disassembly and recycling of products.
By Karen PRAGER Senior Manager, Business Development, Packaging, Printing and Converting, Technology - DKSH
Common Applications At present, polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used polymer for monomaterial film packaging, accounting for over half of the global consumption.
Although PE continues to grow, the demand for polypropylene (PP) grades is rapidly growing. Another alternative material seeing increased interest is the use of regenerated cellulose fiber. Manufacturers of fresh foods, snacks, and confectionery are the largest users of mono-material film in recent years. The Smithers report also showed that fresh foods will see the highest
increase in demand over the next five years. Other fast-growing applications for mono-material film packaging include chilled foods, frozen foods, pharmaceutical, and medical-related products. Benefits of Mono-materials 1. Recyclable. There is a rising demand for easier to recycle polymer formats across the packaging value chain