UPM Raflatac advances sustainability standards for direct thermal laminates

UPM Raflatac has confirmed that all manufacturing of its direct thermal laminate products in North America will no longer rely on Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS) direct thermal developers.

Linked to environmental and health concerns, Bisphenol compounds BPA and BPS are commonly known as developers in the reactive layers of certain direct thermal products, including those used in manufacturing pressure-sensitive labelestock.

UPM Raflatac collaborates closely with raw material suppliers to ensure that these substances are not intentionally added to its direct thermal products or used in the raw materials for its direct thermal face sheets.

UPM Raflatac's direct thermal products meet the recent legislation deadlines of California's Proposition 65 requirements, which require warnings for products with harmful chemicals. They also intend to comply with the upcoming Washington State's Safer Products Act, which aims to reduce harmful chemicals in consumer goods.

By adopting these latest technological developments, the company minimizes the risks associated with these substances, while championing product stewardship. At the same time, the move represents a tangible step toward reducing the environmental impacts of labeling materials, a crucial consideration in today's eco-conscious economy.

‘We take immense pride in the tremendous effort and dedication our cross-functional Raflatac team has shown in achieving the transition of our direct thermal products well ahead of our 2025 goal. This milestone is a testament to their expertise and unwavering focus on excellence,’ said Zach Franklin, director of variable information label solutions at UPM Raflatac Americas. ‘At UPM Raflatac, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering safer and more sustainable labeling solutions that benefit our customers.’