Globally, the consciousness regarding recycling is increasing in the US and Canada as well. “It is really coming up now and in the future, the flower industry is looking to reduce its use of plastic,” says Noam Temkin of Temkin PPC. For this reason, their booth at the Proflora show represented three of their more environmentally friendly solutions. “All sleeves that we offer are 100% recyclable, but there are three products that stand out for being earth friendly.”
Noam Temkin presenting the mineral paper sleeve at Proflora 2019.
Mineral paper
However plastic has been dominating the world of packaging for years, the amount of plastic can be reduced by combining it with other, more sustainable materials. Like mineral paper that has 50% plastic, supplemented with calcium carbonate. “By using this eco-friendly material we hope to reduce our waste and help preserve our planet. The plastic is 100 percent recyclable. Mineral paper has indication Recycle nr.2, which means that it needs a special plan of treatment in order to recycle. Some supermarkets collect such kinds of plastic, that then can be recycled into things like laundry detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, oil bottles, drainage pipes, pens and even picnic tables.”
Biologic Film
Another product is Oxo Biodegradable, which is made out of various starches such as potato mixed with a polymer as well as an additive that makes it biodegradable. "This film is only biodegradable within a compost facility. It also meets the ASTMD 6400 requirements."
Stone Wrap
An eco-friendly paper alternative is Stone Wrap, made of limestone, which requires 4 times less energy to produce than paper. “Although this is not recyclable, it saves a lot of material and energy, as it is made without water, bleaching and deforestation. There is no plastic in it as well. Comparing it with regular paper wrap, it saves 90% water and 20 trees. This limestone based paper alternative has a smoother surface, is tear resistant, waterproof, durable and anti-wrinkle. And – more important to the floricultural sector – it has an excellent printability.”
For more information:
Temkin PPC
+1 800 235 5263
www.gotemkin.com