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UPM Specialty Papers Achieves Major Recyclability Certification

In a significant advancement for sustainable packaging, UPM Specialty Papers has announced its packaging papers have received certifications for recyclability in accordance with both European CEPI and U.S. WMU standards. This achievement marks a crucial milestone in UPM’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in the paper industry.

Details of Certifications

The packaging papers certified include a range of products specifically designed to meet the growing demand for recyclable materials. Notable mentions among the barrier and packaging papers that have passed the rigorous CEPI recyclability test are:

• - Barrier Papers: UPM Asendo™, UPM Asendo™ Pro, UPM Confidio™, UPM Confidio™ Pro
• - Barrier Base Papers: UPM Prego™, UPM Solide™ Lucent
• - C1S Packaging Papers: UPM UniquePack™, UPM UniquePack™ Strong, UPM FlexPack™

These products have successfully undergone CEPI's updated recyclability tests, which reflect the key stages of industrial recycling processes. As Janne Varvemaa, Director of Products and Technology at UPM Specialty Papers, indicates, this certification reinforces the robustness of their papers’ recyclability while providing room for converters to enhance performance with additional coatings without compromising recyclability.

Compliance with Upcoming Regulations

The recent EU regulations regarding packaging waste, which mandates that all packaging must be recyclable by 2030, have accelerated the need for companies like UPM to innovate and comply with such standards. UPM understands that collaboration within the packaging value network—including brands and converters—is essential to achieve sustainable development goals.

“Our focus on co-creation allows us to develop innovative and recyclable materials ideal for an array of purposes,” explains Varvemaa, illustrating UPM’s strategy to work closely with partners across the industry.

In addition to meeting European standards, UPM's packaging products have also been tested for the U.S. market and certified as recyclable using the WMU SBS-E Recyclability Certificate method. Products such as UPM Asendo™, UPM Prego™, UPM Solide™ Lucent, UPM UniquePack™, UPM UniquePack™ Strong, and UPM FlexPack™ have all been verified for their recyclability under these standards. This dual certification underscores UPM's commitment not only to European markets but also to their North American stakeholders, illustrating a holistic approach to sustainability.

Embracing the Future of Sustainable Packaging

UPM Specialty Papers not only prides itself in producing high-performance packaging materials but also positions itself as a leader in the development of renewable resource-based products amid rising environmental concerns. The company employs around 2,000 experts in its products and technology sectors to generate solutions that mitigate business challenges while fostering environmental responsibility.

In every aspect of its operation, UPM emphasizes environmental integrity and innovation. Notably, the company’s efforts in sustainability have been recognized by external parties, not to mention its continued investment in research and technology aimed at enhancing future product offerings.

Conclusion

Through this recent achievement in recyclability certifications, UPM Specialty Papers not only reaffirms its dedication to sustainable practices but also sets an exemplary model for other companies in the industry. As the global demand for sustainable packaging solutions grows, UPM’s focus on co-creation, innovation, and strict adherence to regulations positions it favorably for the future. By championing the recyclability of its products, UPM Specialty Papers is paving the way for a more sustainable packaging landscape, reflecting its vision to renew everyday materials for a well-rounded ecological future.