UPM papers certified industrially compostable

Seven UPM packaging papers have been certified as industrially compostable, according to the EN13432 standard.   

These include barrier papers – UPM Prego, UPM Asendo; coated one side papers – UPM FlexPack, UPM UniquePack, UPM UniquePack Strong; Specialty kraft papers – UPM Solide Lucent. 

The new compostability certification gives fiber-based packaging an edge compared to fossil-based packaging. While it is estimated that fossil-based materials typically take hundreds of years to decompose, fiber-based materials may turn into soil within weeks. 

EN13432 standard requires that an industrially compostable material turns into fertile soil, biodegrades in less than six months, and disintegrates in less than 12 weeks in the temperature of 58 degree Celsius ± 2 degree Celsius.  

‘Compostability is something that consumers, brand owners and converters highly appreciate,’ Dirk Ryckaert, sales director at UPM Specialty Papers, pointed out. 

‘In some cases where recycling of a packaging is not possible, it is valued to have another certified and sustainable way to dispose of the material.’ 

Fiber-based and recyclable packaging from UPM Specialty Papers are a hihly sustainable choice for food and non-food packaging.  

Susanna Hyrkäs, sustainability manager at UPM Specialty Papers, said: ‘From responsibly managed forests – the basis for our business – we produce high-performing fiber-based packaging solutions. Our papers are fully recyclable in existing fiber recycling streams, and now proven industrially compostable as well. Our aim is to always ensure a sustainable product end of life.’