Global packaging solutions provider Amcor has entered into a collaboration with Kolon Industries to develop sustainable polyester materials for its flexible packaging business.
This strategic partnership aims to advance packaging sustainability by combining Amcor's packaging expertise with Kolon's high-polymer manufacturing technology.
The collaboration will concentrate on researching and developing new technologies related to chemically recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene furanoate (PEF) materials.
Kolon is developing an advanced recycling process to convert post-consumer bottles, fibres, and flexible packaging into new PET.
This usage of chemically recycled PET supports Amcor's goal to integrate 30% post-consumer recycled materials into its portfolio by 2030.
Kolon's PEF material, sourced from 100% sustainable biomass, offers improved product protection alongside a lower carbon footprint. Additionally, it will support Amcor's commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Amcor flexible packaging solutions CTO William Jackson said: "This partnership enhances our efforts to offer customers innovative, more sustainable packaging solutions."
Kolon Industries CTO Sung Han added: "Our collaboration with Amcor will help accelerate the commercialisation of more sustainable products and drive the circular economy in global packaging."
The partnership aims to expand the development of sustainable polymer technologies in support of carbon neutrality.
In related news, Amcor and Berry Global Group have agreed to merge, creating a consumer packaging solutions entity through an all-stock transaction. The $8.4bn deal is expected to generate annual synergies of $650m, with Amcor holding 63% of the combined entity and Berry owning 37%.
Both companies’ boards of directors have unanimously approved the transaction, which values Berry’s common stock at $73.59 per share.
Kolon Industries also collaborated with Stora Enso last year to develop sustainable polyester.
The development involved combining Stora Enso's process for converting fructose into furandicarboxylic acid with Kolon's expertise in polyester and phenolic resin development.
