The packaging industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Innovation in sustainable production is no longer optional but essential.
At HEIDELBERG, we see this shift as an opportunity to lead the way toward a more sustainable future. One of the most impactful trends driving this change is paperization: replacing plastic with fiber-based materials wherever possible, which also makes sense when considering commercial aspects.
Why paperization matters
Paper-based packaging offers clear advantages over plastic alternatives
- It’s made from renewable resources, supporting responsible forestry and reducing dependency on fossil-based materials.
- It decomposes naturally, minimizing long-term environmental impact.
- It enables efficient recycling processes with significantly higher recovery rates compared to plastic.
- It is adaptable and versatile, meeting diverse storage and transportation requirements without compromising performance.
These benefits make carton board a cornerstone of the circular economy and a key enabler of sustainable packaging solutions.
Innovation through collaboration
To make paperization viable at scale, barrier coatings play a critical role. These coatings protect packaged goods without relying on plastic films. HEIDELBERG has partnered with Solenis to develop and process advanced water-based barrier coatings inline precisely and only where needed. This approach minimizes material use, reduces waste, and helps converters meet sustainability targets without compromising performance.
Key technological advances
Over the past five years, HEIDELBERG has introduced innovations that make fiber-based packaging more efficient and cost-effective:
- Non-stop operation with Boardmaster and Intellimatch for maximum productivity.
- Digitized flexo plate setup for automated pressure adjustment.
- Significant reduction of changeover waste.
- Efficient drying of water-based inks for eco-friendly printing.
- Inline application of barrier coatings in register, using DOD units and interdeck dryers.
These solutions enable converters to produce high-quality, sustainable packaging while optimizing resources.