On June 29, Amcor announced a partnership with UK-based startup Kelpi to explore next-generation coating technologies designed to enhance the performance and sustainability of packaging materials.
This collaboration with Kelpi is part of Amcor's broader innovation strategy, which focuses on identifying and advancing solutions that achieve greater sustainability while maintaining high functional standards for packaging. Amcor's R&D team is currently evaluating Kelpi's proprietary coating technology platform-a seaweed-based, bio-based material. Designed specifically for fiber-based packaging, the material aims to provide superior barrier properties while ensuring compatibility with existing recycling systems.
By evaluating these breakthrough bio-based coating technologies, Amcor aims to further expand its AmFiber™ fiber-based solutions platform, continuing to meet demanding application requirements regarding barrier performance, suitability for high-speed production, and recyclability. Adopting such bio-based coatings offers the potential to reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based feedstocks and increase the use of renewable resources, thereby helping to lower the carbon footprint.
"This partnership underscores our commitment to advancing our materials innovation pipeline and responds to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's call to accelerate innovation in paper-based flexible packaging," said Peter Ettridge, Amcor's R&D Director for AmFiber™. "We are excited by the potential of Kelpi's technology, which combines excellent processability and gas and moisture barrier properties with paper recyclability."
By combining Kelpi's technology with Amcor's global R&D capabilities and scale, the two companies aim to evaluate commercially viable and scalable solutions for customers across various consumer goods sectors, thereby supporting the development of a circular economy in packaging.
