UPM Raflatac has announced its participation as an exhibitor at Labelexpo Americas 2024, the only dedicated event for the label and package printing industry in the US. This year’s event takes place on 10-12 September at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.

UPM Raflatac will be showcasing its new portfolio of Carbon Action plastic labels. These labeling materials enable the next step in packaging carbon footprint reduction throughout the value chain, including Scope 3 emission reduction for converters and brand owners.

Every product in the Carbon Action portfolio combines multiple circular economy Rs - Reduced, Recycled, or Renewable materials that enable Recycling or Reuse. The label components consist of the following:

• Labels in the portfolio made with PP White Biobased face material are ISCC PLUS-certified, made with 30% renewable content on a mass-balance basis. The material is derived from refined used cooking oil.

• Labels in the portfolio made with Forest Film face material are ISCC PLUS-certified bio-circular on a mass-balance basis. The material is derived from UPM BioVerno naphtha, a 100% wood-based solution.

• The products are made with recycling compatible adhesives to ensure packaging can be recycled in line with APR guidelines. Both RP74 and RW85C adhesives are compatible with HDPE and PP containers, and RW85C enables the recycling of PET containers.

• Liner options include materials made from 50% and 90% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content.

Carbon Action labels are expected to smoothly replace traditional fossil-based options without compromising quality or performance. The impact of using these labels is quantified by an externally validated life-cycle assessment (LCA) calculation process.

Anna Hunt, senior manager of Marketing and Communications, UPM Raflatac said, “Label material choice can have a significant impact on packaging sustainability. At UPM Raflatac, we provide innovative solutions that can directly contribute to reducing carbon footprint and enhancing circularity. We’re committed to empowering our customers and brands to take concrete steps towards a low carbon circular economy.”

Tasha Ventimiglia, group director, Labelexpo Americas 2024 commented, “Sustainability is an important topic at this year’s Labelexpo Americas, and UPM Raflatac’s focus on the circularity of plastic packaging and how to reduce carbon footprint fits perfectly into this narrative. We look forward to seeing the company’s new Carbon Action Plastic Labels presented at the show next month.”