Novel New Developments in Paper Packaging

The paper packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 4.5% 2020-2026, according to a December 2020 report.  Another report places growth just short of 3.9% for the forecast period of 2021-2026 and notes paper’s timeless, yet timely, benefits for packagers: “increasing consumer consciousness regarding sustainable packaging, as well as the strict regulations imposed by various environmental protection agencies, are factors driving the market.”

Reading between the lines, the general backlash against single-use plastic packaging looks to be paper packaging's gain as renewed interest in the tried-and-true sustainable material yields a continuing stream of new innovations, options, and news centering on renewable resources from wood and related materials.

Ranging from air-filled-paper cushions to microwavable wood-fiber trays to a new market for paper bottles, these 10 developments appear in the following slideshow gallery that kicks off with a surprising application: a stretch wrap for pallet loads. Our gallery ends with a bonus eleventh slide regarding an interesting, if unexpected, brand-backed initiative focused on paper packaging.