b'of global businesses that collectivelyThe adoptionInstead of waiting for change to beall tissue packaging equipmentany produce 20% of all plastic packaging.of paperrequired, pulp and paper industrysize or formatcan wrap packs with The coalitions members are keenlypackagingleaders are leaning into finding100% eco-friendly material or paper focused on driving change to supportfor tissuepractical solutions now. For example,reels combined with bioplastics, with a circular economy by as early asproductsFabio Perini and partnering companiesno quality issues or line disruption.2025.4 will perhapsexplored certain FSC-certified 100% be lessbiodegradable virgin papers andThe solutions are innovative and timely. The pivot away from plastics is alsoprohibitiverecycled papers (see Figure 1),Several companies in Europe have giving tissue manufacturers andthan initiallydeveloping 100% compostable Bioalready gone to market with products converters pause. Bioplastics or otherthought. paper with Vinicotte OK compostin paper packaging. Similar trends environmentally friendly materials arecertification, and 100% recyclable andare appearing in the United States not currently available on an industrialbiodegradable paper. and Canada, where several prominent scale, which elevates their pricetissue manufacturers are evaluating points and ultimately total deliveredThese papers ensure maximumnew products. The shifts suggest costs (TDC). However, this barrier topuncture resistance and productsubstantial growth in more sustainable broad-based use is likely temporaryprotection, and their coupling,paper packaging for the upcoming since less expensive materials willlamination, or extrusion to bioplasticsyear.eventually come to market based onprovide good pack sealing and an economies of scale. optimal moisture barrier. AN ADHESIVE-FREE FUTUREEliminating plastic packaging is just The opacity of paper and polyTo aid in the transition and helpone way tissue manufacturers and wraps is also a stumbling blockmanage costs, Fabio Perini alsoconverters are contributing to long-since consumers are conditioneddeveloped a technical improvementterm sustainability. Research and to see before they buy. However,program known as Bio-pack to ensuredevelopment continue into product and current buying behaviors in opaque-wrapped diapers and feminine care products suggest that the must-see mindset is shifting due to concerted marketing efforts and brand loyalty building. Further, tissue products sold through ecommerce do not require transparent packaging as consumers buy online based on brand experience and trust. Taken in total, then, the adoption of paper and poly wraps for tissue products will perhaps be less prohibitive than initially thought. Selectively addressing these prevalent industry objections is a luxury in the U.S., where replacing poly material with more sustainable alternatives remains optional. However, as evidenced by eco-centric legislation in Europe and other countries, voluntaryFigure 2. Aquabond is a sustainable water lamination technology that replaces adhesive with choices will be short-lived. water during ply bonding and embossing. TISSUE TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL79'