In a recent article from McGill University, it was announced that researchers at the university have discovered an innovative approach in improving energy efficiency of carbon conversion using waste material from pulp and paper.
The article states that: "The technique they've pioneered using the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan not only reduces the energy required to convert carbon into useful products, but also reduces overall waste in the environment.
We are one of the first groups to combine biomass recycling or utilization with CO2 capture, said Ali Seifitokaldani, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Electrocatalysis for Renewable Energy Production and Conversion."
In other news, UPM Specialty Papers recently announced that they along with Fazer developed a recyclable packaging solution without a plastic lining.
The press release states that "UPM Specialty Papers and Fazer have jointly developed a new type of packaging for Fazer's Oat Rice Pies. Traditional plastic laminated packaging paper has been replaced with an innovative paper solution, which is easier to recycle and does not compromise the protection it provides the rice pies inside. The award-winning packaging has been recognized in the WorldStar, ScanStar and New Wood competitions and can already be found in the chill food aisles of Finnish supermarkets.
The new Fazer Oat Rice Pie packaging is in line with both Fazer's Sustainable Packaging Vision and UPM's Biofore strategy. The new packaging solution is the result of more than two years of long-term development work to ensure the recyclability of the packaging without compromising food safety and the quality of the rice pies."
The press release goes on to state that "In the packaging paper developed by UPM Specialty Papers, both the barrier and heat seal properties have been incorporated into the packaging paper without a separate layer of plastic lamination. The barrier properties are designed to protect the product inside the package until the best-before date, while ensuring that, for example, grease in the product cannot penetrate the package."
We will keep you apprised of further developments.
Helen Roush is Executive Vice President of Paperitalo Publications.
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