Flint Group, a supplier of inks and coatings for the print and packaging industry, has reaffirmed its commitment to developing nitrocellulose-free (NC-free) ink systems, aiming to enhance the recyclability of flexible packaging in Europe.
The move aligns with the EU’s updated Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which mandates that all packaging must be 100% recyclable by 2030.
The legislation also emphasises the need for seamless integration of all components of the packaging value chain with recycling infrastructure.
Flint Group Europe flexible packaging product manager Stephen Butler said: “We already have market-proven PU [polyurethane]-based products delivering outstanding results for our customers. Our comprehensive portfolio of NC-free inks is successfully used in real production environments, producing consistent high-quality print at high speeds.
“This proves that flexible packaging printers don’t need to compromise performance for sustainability.
“Our focus remains on delivering sustainable, regulatory-compliant technologies that anticipate future needs as regulations continue to evolve. By switching to our proven PU-based inks, printers aren’t just meeting compliance requirements – they’re actively contributing to more effective and economically viable recycling systems.”
Flint Group recently explained how traditional NC-based inks may break down during mechanical recycling, possibly leading to the contamination of recycled materials.
The company offers VertixCode (flexo) and MatrixCode (gravure) inks in PU-based, NC-free, and traditional NC formulations.
These inks are suitable for surface, reverse, and lamination printing, delivering strong colours and high-opacity whites for flexible packaging.
Flint Group technology and product management vice-president Paul Winstanley said: “The recycling infrastructure represents a significant investment that must function efficiently to achieve the circularity goals of initiatives such as PPWR, and whilst NC-based printing inks are recyclable, NC-free solutions offer improved compatibility with the mechanical recycling process.
“Additionally, under PPWR, producers – including packaging printers – are subject to extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, which impose fees based on how easily their packaging materials can be recycled.
“Therefore, the ink industry is proactively developing new solutions to improve the ability to recycle packaging materials.”
Earlier this month, Flint Group opened a distribution hub in Montreal, Québec, to better serve its label and narrow web customers in Canada.
