Rosenberg, Germany turns to bio-based and biodegradable packaging
Rosenberger Optical Solutions and Infrastructure (Rosenberger OSI), Germany's fiber optic connectivity, cabling solutions and infrastructure service, announced that its internal plastic packaging for patch cables will be switched to bio-based and biodegradable polymers. This stems from an innovative project in which the company tackles the issue of sustainable and ecologically sound packaging. The aim of the initiative is to replace the currently used plastic film with an environmentally friendly and resource-saving alternative.
Dr. Benjamin Weigand, Innovation Manager at Rosenberger OSI, said: "The introduction of biopolymer packaging on an industrial scale not only represents added value for us as a company. Our customers have also reported the importance of environmentally friendly solutions. Given current concerns about sustainability discussions, especially in the data center space, and we're excited to contribute to that,".
In cooperation with Fraunhofer IAP
The new packaging was selected and produced in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP) Schwarzheide Technology Center. In the field of novel packaging solutions, bio-based and biodegradable plastics are identified as alternatives to the previously used petroleum-based counterparts. In terms of its appearance, stability and feel, this new bioplastic is absolutely comparable to the packaging used so far and is almost indistinguishable. It has two major advantages over solutions made from paper. On the one hand, biopolymers have the added value of better protection of sensitive fiber optic connectors from contamination as well as being lighter and more durable. On the other hand, plastic packaging is more efficient to produce. Research shows that it takes about four times as much energy to produce an equivalent paper bag. When selecting materials, great attention was paid to ensuring that the proportion of renewable raw materials was significantly increased.
No microplastics, disposed of through recycling bins In addition, Profectus Films GmbH was selected as the supplier for the procurement of packaging foils, the company obtains the basic material from certified sustainable sources in Central Europe. The packaging used in the future by Rosenberger OSI is biodegradable according to European standard EN 13432 and does not form microplastics. Disposal of biodegradable films can be routinely carried out through recycling bins ("yellow bins")
