In response to the growing awareness among consumers around the world regarding issues of sustainability and the impact that waste packaging has on the environment, businesses are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives in order to satisfy this growing demand from customers. The packaging manufacturer Otarapack, which is based in Finland, is at the forefront of developing environmentally friendly packaging solutions that are designed with both people and the environment in mind. Otarapack is an organization that was established in 2016 by two businesspeople named Kati Elomaa and Jaakko Tolvanen. Their mission is to develop packaging that is not only useful but also beneficial by utilizing materials that are renewable, recycled, and recyclable. Their name, "Otarapack," is derived from the Finnish words for "hug" and "package," and it is meant to symbolize their objective of developing packaging with particular attention to detail.
The packaging that Otarapack uses strives to have a minimal impact on the environment throughout its entire lifecycle, from the point of production to the point of disposal, by making use of locally sourced materials whenever possible. Furthermore, by forming strategic partnerships with providers of specialized materials, they are able to acquire environmentally friendly grades of paper and board that have been developed through innovative processes that have little to no impact.
Materials that are renewable and contain recycled content
The utilization of packaging materials that contain a high percentage of recycled materials or that originate from renewable sources such as paper and wood fiber is one of Otarapack's primary focuses. When compared to virgin materials, their corrugated cardboard boxes are made from approximately 85–100% recycled fiber, which results in a significant reduction in the amount of wood that is used and a reduction in carbon emissions.
Whenever Otarapack needs to produce molded fiber packaging, such as protective trays and partitions, the company collaborates with suppliers who manufacture the molded pulp from 85-95% paper fibers that have been recovered from the recycling process. These molded fiber solutions have the potential to replace plastics or expanded polystyrene, which are typically utilized for protective functions, and are less environmentally friendly.
Conceived with reuse in mind
It is the responsibility of Otarapack to ensure that multi-material packages that invariably include some plastic components, such as window films or closure tapes, are capable of being mechanically recycled and do not contaminate the paper fiber recycling stream. Clear labeling also educates customers about the correct way to sort and dispose of their waste.
The research and development team at Otarapack conducts ongoing monitoring of developments in alternative materials and production technologies that have the potential to further improve the company's commitment to sustainability. As an illustration, the testing of bio-based and biodegradable plastic films that have the potential to eventually replace polymers derived from fossil fuels without compromising protection or functionality.
The Sustainability of Social and Economic Systems
During the course of their business operations, Otarapack takes into consideration not only environmental care but also social and economic sustainability. In order to support regional economies and reduce the negative effects of transportation, they form partnerships with suppliers who practise fair employment conditions and source materials locally whenever it is feasible to do so.
From a financial point of view, Otarapack packaging is optimized for durability that is comparable to or even superior to alternatives that are less environmentally friendly. Materials that are strong are able to withstand the impacts of distribution and extend product protection, which ultimately results in an increase in value for customers over time through reusability when it is applicable.
Personalization and Conversion Capabilities, respectively
While the concept of sustainability is at the core of Otarapack's vision, the company is also aware of the requirement for individualized solutions that are tailored to the particular requirements of a given product or business
Changes in format, windows, cut-outs, and specialty finishing such as lamination, printing, or embossing can be performed on demand thanks to the capabilities of converting
Additionally, an automated tray former makes it possible to manufacture molded fiber partitions and containers in a variety of sizes and designs in a short amount of time
Partnerships for the Betterment of Society
Otarapack is actively involved in industry organizations that facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices in order to increase the adoption of sustainable packaging. In addition to this, they collaborate directly with major brands that are dedicated to lowering their carbon footprint and using less plastic.
By eliminating millions of single-use plastic and disposable paper products on an annual basis, a successful partnership contributes to the production of clean, environmentally friendly molded fiber food containers, which are now being utilized by a leading coffee shop chain across the Nordic countries. Customizable dividers also help optimize truckload space, which is essential for the chain's environmentally responsible transportation of products between its roasting plants and its retail locations.
Conclusion: The Prospects for Environmentally Responsible Packaging
As an increasing number of businesses make commitments to achieving sustainability goals and becoming carbon neutral, the demand for eco-friendly packaging innovators such as Otarapack will only continue to increase. By taking a holistic approach that focuses on materials, they demonstrate that promising advancements are possible today through the use of materials that are renewable, recycled, and recyclable.
Through the cultivation of collaborations along the entire value chain, Otarapack is demonstrating how sustainable packaging solutions are beneficial to all stakeholders, including consumers, communities, and manufacturers. With more people becoming aware of Otarapack's concern for both people and the planet, the future appears to be bright for the company's capacity to multiply these positive impacts all over the world.
