Finnish pulp and paper manufacturer Stora Enso has partnered with Sulapac to introduce sustainable drinking straws in a move to combat plastic waste.
Based on Sulapac’s biocomposite material, the new straws are made using wood and natural binders, while they can replace traditional plastic straws.
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The straws can be recycled through industrial composting and biodegrade in marine environments.
Stora Enso Consumer Board division executive vice-president Annica Bresky said: “This is an important step for Stora Enso and showcases our long-term commitment to gradually replacing fossil-based materials with renewable solutions.
“Our collaboration with Sulapac is a great example of what we can achieve through partnership in terms of driving innovation to create sustainable solutions within the bioeconomy.”
The partnership between both parties to launch a demo for the straws complements the joint development agreement signed in May to license Stora Enso’s materials and technology.
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By GlobalDataBoth companies are currently working together to make the straws commercially available in the second quarter of next year.
Stora Enso senior vice-president and Liquid Packaging and Carton Board head Hannu Kasurinen said: “Eco-awareness is a strong driver for consumer demand, and our customers want help in replacing non-renewable materials.
“Different biocomposite solutions such as renewable caps and closures and straws will be add-ons and a complement to our own consumer board portfolio, bringing additional value to our customers.”
Stora Enso offers renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden constructions and paper. The company currently has 26,000 employees in more than 30 countries.
