Sustainability and innovation have become pivotal themes driving transformation in the packaging industry. Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) has been recognized with the Innovation award in the 2024 Packaging Gateway Excellence Awards for its pioneering work in sustainable packaging, particularly in the realm of In-Mold Labeling (IML).
The Packaging Gateway Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the packaging industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry.
Go deeper with GlobalData
SABIC won the award for its groundbreaking bio-based IML solution, which utilizes certified renewable polypropylene resins to create sustainable and high-quality packaging. The innovative approach not only reduces the environmental footprint of food packaging, but also aligns with the industry’s shift towards a circular economy and sustainable waste management practices.
Revolutionizing packaging with bio-based in-mold labeling
SABIC’s award-winning IML innovation is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. The company has introduced a bio-based IML solution that leverages certified renewable polypropylene (PP) resins to create high-quality, mono-PP thin-wall container packaging. The technology integrates the label during the injection moldings process, creating a seamless packaging solution. The integration of the label as an integral component during molding not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the packaging, but also ensures that the label is more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
The use of certified renewable PP resins ensures that the packaging is not only durable and enhances shelf life, but also aligns with evolving regulatory standards and consumer preferences for sustainable alternatives. This is particularly significant in the food packaging sector, where maintaining product integrity and extending shelf life are critical. By reducing the environmental footprint of food packaging, SABIC’s IML solution addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging options in the consumer market, aligning with the broader industry trend towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing carbon emissions.
Innovative approach to circular economy and waste management
SABIC’s IML technology represents a significant innovation in the packaging industry. The single-step process, where label decoration is incorporated into the injection mold, eliminates the need for additional labeling steps, thereby streamlining production and reducing waste. This efficiency not only reduces manufacturing costs, but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with traditional labeling methods. The use of biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPP) film, made from SABIC’s certified renewable resin, allows the packaging to be recycled within existing rigid PP recycling streams, promoting a circular economy.
This approach not only enhances brand differentiation and shelf visibility, but also maintains a low environmental impact. The ability to offer a range of finishes and textures through this technology allows brands to stand out on the shelf, catering to consumer preferences for visually appealing packaging. By collaborating with partners to optimize printing techniques and ink formulations tailored to PP-based in-mold labels, SABIC ensures high-quality, pre-printed labels that integrate effortlessly with the containers. This collaboration highlights SABIC’s commitment to innovation and quality, ensuring that the final product meets the highest standards of performance and sustainability.
Paving the way for a sustainable future
SABIC’s bio-based IML solution is poised to set a new standard in sustainable packaging. By offering a cost-effective and highly sustainable alternative to traditional packaging, SABIC is contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and fostering a more circular economy. The company’s initiative is likely to inspire wider adoption of renewable materials in packaging, further driving the industry’s shift towards sustainability. This shift is crucial as consumers and regulators increasingly demand more environmentally responsible packaging solutions.
The broader industry context also reflects a growing momentum towards eco-friendly solutions, as seen in collaborations such as those between Neste, Mitsui Chemicals, and Prime Polymer. These collaborations highlight the collective efforts to enhance the recyclability and sustainability of packaging materials. Such industry-wide initiatives underscore the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges of plastic waste and environmental impact. SABIC’s leadership in this area positions it as a key player in the transition towards more sustainable packaging practices, setting a benchmark for others in the industry to follow.
Company Profile
Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Oil Co, is a Chemical manufacturing company. The company is engaged in the manufacturing of petrochemicals, chemicals, industrial polymers, fertilizers and metals. It also provides engineering tools, fast formulation service and small order quantities service. The company operates brands such as Elcres, Valox, GTX, Lexan, LNP, ColorXpress, and Cycoloy, among others. It has geographical presence across the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. SABIC is headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Contact Details
P.O.Box 5101, Riyadh, 11422
966 1 12258000
Links
