Sustainable bag solutions for future generations
The awareness for environmental issues is constantly increasing and waste management directives are becoming more and more restrictive throughout the world. Waste prevention, re-usage, recycling and composting will be the key words for sustainable packaging in the future. To support the challenging sustainability agenda of customers across all industries, Mondi Industrial Bags developed its Green Range® of industrial bags optimised to save natural resources, reduce waste and provide a measurably reduced environmental footprint. The solutions cover various environmental opportunities such as resource economies with one-ply bags, intelligent waste management with biodegradable bags and PEFCTM/FSC® certified bags for responsible sourcing.
ONE, Mondi’s one-ply bag solution, significantly saves resources and waste by reducing packaging weight and volume compared with two-ply 70 g/m2 bags for 25 kg and 35 kg. With ONE and ONEPlus (Fig. 1), customers benefit from up to 20 % lower grammage, less waste and tangible cost savings e.g in transport and efficient filling. ONE is especially suited for high-speed filling and is made of 110 gsm high-performance paper. The excellent porosity of the paper ensures quick de-aeration of the bag while the outstanding strength and stiffness of the paper guarantee a smooth application on the filling spout and high handling resistance of the filled bag. ONE Plus, the one-ply solution featuring a film for enhanced moisture protection is available with a classic PE film or a biodegradable film.
Terra Bag (Fig. 2) is the first biodegradable valve bag with certified compostability. The compostable paper bag features an optional biodegradable film for humidity protection. Through the different types of Terra Bags (one or two plies, with or without film), fillers can now select the bag solution best suitable for their filling equipment and logistics – and at the same time underline their commitment to sustainable development. With either composition the entire bag is biodegradable and optimised for industrial composting - turning waste into valuable humus. Life-cycle analyses of bioplastics show that CO2 emissions can be up to 20 % lower than those for commodity polymers (Source: European Bioplastics), when properly disposed of in industrial composting facilities. The “OK Compost” logo can be applied to the customers’ bags thus clearly showing their green commitment and making the compostable bags easily identifiable for further waste treatment (Fig. 3).
Mondi’s FSC® and PEFCTM certified bags present clear, informative labelling, and have already built a loyal customer base since their launch in 2008. Both the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) and the PEFCTM (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) promote sustainably managed forests through independent third party certification. This offers customers and consumers the option to choose products from environmentally and socially responsible and economically viable forestry. Both schemes are internationally recognised.
