Sustainable Alternatives to ABS: mPackting's Eco-Friendly Solutions

As the world grapples with the environmental impact of plastic waste, the need for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics like, for example, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) has never been more urgent. At mPackting, part of Minelli S.p.A. with 80 years of expertise in wood machining, we are committed to leading the way in eco-friendly beauty packaging solutions. Our focus on PHA-based biopolymers and wood aligns with stringent European Union (EU) regulations and responds to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products.

The Necessity of Transitioning from ABS to Eco-Friendly Materials

Transitioning from ABS to eco-friendly materials is essential due to several compelling reasons:

1. Environmental Impact:

• Plastic Waste Reduction: ABS is non-biodegradable, contributing significantly to long-lasting plastic waste. Eco-friendly alternatives like PHAs are biodegradable, reducing environmental burden.

• Lower Carbon Footprint: The production of ABS is energy-intensive and releases greenhouse gases. PHAs, derived from renewable resources, have a lower carbon footprint.

• Pollution Reduction: The manufacturing of ABS involves toxic chemicals. Eco-friendly materials often have less harmful production processes.

2. Economic Benefits:

• Market Demand: Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable products. Companies adopting eco-friendly materials can gain a competitive edge.

• Regulatory Compliance: Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter regulations on plastic use. Eco-friendly materials help companies comply with these regulations.

• Long-Term Cost Savings: Although initial costs may be higher, eco-friendly materials can lead to long-term savings in waste management and operational efficiency.

3. Social Responsibility:

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Using sustainable materials enhances a company's reputation and aligns with CSR initiatives.

• Health and Safety: Eco-friendly materials are often safer for human health, improving safety for workers and consumers.

• Community and Ecosystem Protection: Reducing harmful plastics protects local communities and ecosystems.

Benefits of PHA-Based Biopolymers

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are naturally occurring biopolymers produced by microbial fermentation. They offer several advantages:

1. Biodegradability: PHAs are fully biodegradable in various environments, reducing long-term waste.

2. Renewable Resources: Derived from plant sugars and oils, PHAs reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

3. Non-Toxicity: PHAs are generally non-toxic, making them safe for beauty packaging.

4. Versatile Properties: PHAs can be engineered to suit various packaging needs.

5. Compostability: PHAs break down into harmless substances, contributing to a circular economy.

6. Consumer Appeal: Biodegradable packaging attracts environmentally conscious consumers.

Benefits of Wood

Wood is a timeless material known for its natural beauty and durability. It offers:

1. Sustainability: Responsibly sourced wood is a renewable resource, supporting sustainable forestry.

2. Aesthetics: Wood provides a premium, natural look and feel, ideal for beauty packaging.

3. Durability and Strength: Wood offers excellent protection and ages gracefully.

4. Customizability: With Minelli S.p.A.'s expertise, wood can be intricately designed and customized.

5. Biodegradability: Wood is biodegradable, reducing environmental impact.

6. Carbon Sequestration: Wood products store carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change.

7. Brand Differentiation: Wood packaging emphasizes natural and sustainable values.

Compliance with EU Regulations on Reducing Single-Use Plastics

The EU's stringent regulations on single-use plastics include:

1. Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUP Directive): Bans specific single-use plastic items and sets ambitious waste reduction targets.

2. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Makes producers responsible for waste management costs.

3. Product Design Requirements: Introduces new design and labeling requirements.

4. Awareness and Education: Raises consumer awareness about plastic waste.

Did You Know?

The EU aims to significantly increase the use of recycled plastics in packaging through mandatory targets in the coming years.

By 2030, there will be mandatory rates of recycled content that producers have to include in new plastic packaging. For PET packaging for food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical products and for disposable plastic drinks bottles, the target is 30%.
These recycled content targets are set to increase substantially again by 2040, when 50% will be the benchmark for plastic packaging . The goal is to reduce the demand for primary raw materials and strengthen the market for secondary raw materials through these mandatory recycled content targets.