VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland has made a strategic investment of €1.5 million in its CelluloseFilms pilot facility, a pivotal move towards addressing the sustainability challenges posed by one of the most ubiquitous plastics used in the food industry. This facility is geared to scale up production methods for renewable cellulose alternatives designed to replace traditional plastic film in food packaging. By allocating resources to this initiative, VTT aims to test and refine processes that will facilitate mass production of these cellulose films, marking a significant step in combating plastic pollution.
The pervasive issue of plastic waste, particularly from single-use bags, plastic bottles, food containers, and wrappers, has prompted the need for sustainable alternatives. VTT's investment is a proactive response to this challenge, with a focus on developing easily recyclable cellulose-based materials for food packaging and bio-based barrier materials for films, paper, and cardboard.
The demand for plastic film packaging remains high globally due to its effectiveness in protecting food and fragile contents, contributing to a substantial carbon footprint. The pilot facility is distinctive in its capability to scale up the production of cellulose-based alternatives, providing a promising solution to the environmental impact of plastic wrap. The cellulose-based films, indistinguishable from traditional plastic wraps according to customer feedback, offer a compelling alternative to an industry that has long relied on plastic packaging.
The pilot's key objectives include enhancing barrier properties, manufacturing packages from the developed materials, and facilitating the commercial utilization of these sustainable solutions in emerging value chains. Anticipating extensive industrial use within five years, VTT is already collaborating with over 30 Finnish and international companies interested in adopting these next-generation sustainable film solutions.
This investment follows VTT's earlier announcement in June 2022 regarding the development of a sustainable alternative for plastic film, underscoring their commitment to advancing eco-friendly solutions in the packaging industry
