Overwrap films are nothing but the thin layer of covering that safeguards our food, beverage, and other products. Modern packaging widely uses these films as they offer visibility and protection for various products.
In the year 2022, the global box and carton overwrap films market size was valued at USD 11.81 billion. This is likely to reach USD 15.69 billion by 2031. But the conventional production and disposal of these films have raised several environmental concerns.
Currently, the flexible film packaging industry is working on innovating solutions in overwrap film technology and focusing on sustainable materials and manufacturing processes of the same.
Let's explore more about the recent advancements in overwrap film technology and learn about the transition towards eco-friendly solutions that have sustainability at their core.
Overwrap Films: Advancements in Sustainable Materials
Recent developments in the BOPP-based overwrap film technology include using more sustainable materials that originate from recyclable content or renewable resources. These materials offer similar performance to traditional materials while minimizing the dependence on fossil fuels and reducing the impact on the environment.
Following are some notable advancements in sustainable materials for overwrap films:
- Recycled Materials : The post-consumer recycled content obtained from recycled plastic packaging or waste streams can be used in overwrap film manufacturing. Therefore, plastic waste from landfills and oceans contributes to a circular economy and reduces the environmental footprint of packaging. Also, with enhancements in recycling technology, manufacturers can now produce high-quality recycled materials suitable for overwrap film applications. This helps maintain performance and functionality while promoting resource conservation.
- Biodegradable & Compostable Materials : Plastic pollution and landfill accumulation are big environmental issues, and using biodegradable and compostable materials in the manufacturing process of overwrap BOPP film is a possible solution to this problem. Cosmo overwrap films made from biodegradable polymers break down naturally and reduce the long-term impact on the environment. These compostable films undergo decomposition into water, carbon dioxide and organic matter in industrial composting units. These materials offer a closed-loop solution for packaging waste, boosting circularity and resource efficiency.
- Bio-based Polymers : Bio-based polymers, like polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates, are renewable and environmentally friendly alternative materials that have acquired traction in the past years. Polylactic acid is derived from renewable resources like corn starch/sugarcane and is compostable under the right conditions. On the other hand, polyhydroxyalkanoates, produced by bacterial fermentation of organic materials, deliver biodegradability and compatibility with recycling infrastructure.
Overwrap Films: Advancements in Manufacturing Processes
Advancements in the manufacturing process of overwrap film play a big role in improving environmental performance. Adhering to sustainable practices in manufacturing can significantly reduce energy consumption, minimize waste generation, and optimize the use of resources.
Following are a few developments in sustainable manufacturing processes for Cosmo Overwrap Films:
- Waste Reduction & Recycling
- Incorporated recycling systems into the manufacturing unit of overwrap films enabled the reprocessing of production scrap and off-spec materials, and decreased waste sent to landfills.
- The closed-loop recycling process retrieved and reused post-industrial waste to decrease the demand for virgin materials and preserve natural resources.
- Recycling technologies enhanced the quality and purity of recycled materials and provided compatibility with overwrap film production.
- Water Conservation & Treatment
Water is an essential manufacturing resource for cooling, cleaning, and polymer processing.
- Sustainable manufacturing practices reduced water consumption and wastewater generation with the help of water management and treatment systems.
- Wastewater treatment technologies helped release contaminants and pollutants, ensuring adherence to environmental regulations and safeguarding water quality.
- Energy-efficient Production
- Using energy efficiently minimized the environmental impression of our overwrap film manufacturing.
- Energy-efficient machinery reduced energy consumption during film production.
- Operating with renewable energy sources, like wind or solar power, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, minimized the dependency on fossil fuels and lowered operating costs and environmental impact.
Final Words,
The advancements in materials and manufacturing of our exceptional overwrap films represent a significant step in achieving sustainability in the flexible packaging industry. At Cosmo Films, we used sustainable materials and manufacturing processes to reduce the environmental impact, while meeting consumer demands for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
As the packaging industry continues to thrive and innovate, overwrap films will play a pivotal role in building a more sustainable future for intelligent packaging.
