Michigan State University’s School of Packaging is entering the next phase of its evolution as it seeks funding for a $25m expansion.
This effort comes just over a year after the completion of a $10m renovation of its existing facilities, a project that modernised laboratories, classrooms, and collaboration spaces.
The proposed expansion would double the size of the school’s current building, allowing for more research capabilities, advanced technology, and increased capacity for students and faculty.
According to university representatives, the expanded facility will be designed to support the school’s focus on sustainable and innovative packaging solutions.
Founded in 1952, the School of Packaging is recognised as a pioneer in the field, educating 40% of packaging professionals in the US The school’s network of over 10,000 alumni remains deeply involved in global packaging industries.
Focus on sustainability and innovation
The School of Packaging has maintained a strong emphasis on addressing environmental challenges in packaging. Its research spans a variety of areas, including biodegradable materials, food preservation technologies, and solutions for hard-to-recycle plastics.
Dr. Rafael Auras, a leading voice in packaging sustainability, continues to explore alternatives to traditional plastics through his work on bio-based and biodegradable materials.
Auras’s research team has collaborated on notable projects, including the development of packaging solutions for space missions with NASA.
Another ongoing project involves the use of cellulose nanomaterials to create recyclable single-layer films, led by associate director Dr. Laurent Matuana. This research could significantly impact the recyclability of flexible packaging, which currently poses major challenges for the industry.
Growth in research funding and collaboration
The school has seen a surge in funding from industry, government agencies, and commodity groups over the past year. Projects led by researchers such as Dr. Eva Almenar, who focuses on extending the shelf life of fresh produce through sustainable packaging, exemplify the school’s collaborative approach.
Almenar has partnered with international institutions to tackle food waste issues, a key concern for both industry and consumers.
New faculty members are also driving innovation. Dr. Qiang Yang, a recent addition to the team, has made significant strides in improving the energy efficiency of pulp processing and developing cellulose-based packaging materials.
The road ahead
While MSU’s School of Packaging is in the early stages of its $25m fundraising effort, its ambitions reflect a broader trend in academia: addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research and education.
If realised, the expanded facility will position the school to further contribute to sustainable packaging solutions and meet growing industry demand.
For now, the school remains at the forefront of tackling issues like plastic waste, food security, and the circular economy. As packaging continues to evolve, the institution’s role in shaping the future of the field is likely to grow.
