Sponsored by Sekisui

Since development and use of synthetic, petroleum-based polymers in the 1950s, an estimated 6,300 million metric tons (MT) of plastic waste has been generated1 . Single-use plastic packaging represents the largest use market for plastics, making up 40% of total plastic production2 . The vast majority of that plastic waste has accumulated in the landfills or has contaminated our oceans, freshwater systems, and land. If the current trends continue, an anticipated 12,000 MT of plastic waste will enter the landfills or ecosystems by 20501 . Synthetic polymers are preferred for their cost effectiveness and high performance. However, plastics do not readily biodegrade so once they are introduced into the environment, they are persistent and some can take up to 1,000 years to decompose3 . Accordingly, there is an urgent need for a solution to environmental pollution and increased development of microplastics caused by nonbiodegradable plastics. There are a variety of greener solutions existing in the market that come with benefits and challenges. Starch is a plant-based biopolymer obtained from renewable sources that has a long history within the packaging industry. It has been leveraged for its environmental benefits and as a cost-efficient, widely available ingredient that provides increased strength, process efficiency, and surface property development of fiber-based packaging. In combination with novel modifications, starch can provide enhanced barrier properties (oil and grease resistance, oxygen transmission rate, water vapor transmission rate) that enable fiber-based packaging to replace traditional single use plastic packaging in markets such as fresh and shelf-stable food4,5 . Maintaining mechanical properties, such as processing stability, strength, and flexibility is crucial to delivering functionality. We highlight the potential opportunities to enhance the inherent properties of starch for environmentally responsible packaging that meets requirements of compostability and recyclability.
 
Jake Finkelstein | Sr. Marketing Analyst, Industrial Ingredients, Ingredion

This session explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in optimizing paper machine operations through the identification and enhancement of Golden Runs. These periods of peak operational efficiency are characterized by optimal machine performance, product quality, and resource utilization. It examines how AI systems leverage machine learning and advanced analytics to transform raw production data into actionable insights, enabling operators to replicate and sustain ideal conditions. The article investigates the defining characteristics of Golden Runs, the systematic approach of AI in identifying these optimal periods, and the various sophisticated algorithms employed for detection and analysis. Through comprehensive case studies and implementation examples, it demonstrates how AI-driven process control systems integrate multiple data sources and machine learning approaches to achieve significant improvements in production efficiency, quality consistency, and resource optimization. The article highlights the crucial role of real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and autonomous control systems in maintaining optimal operating conditions while reducing waste and energy consumption.
 
Varma Raju Sagi Venkatatapathi | Technology Specialist, Honeywell International

In today's push for responsible production and consumption, paper is no longer just a fibre-based material — it's a powerful driver for innovation and sustainability. This presentation will explore paper's evolution from commodity to solution, focusing on the consumer and regulatory forces reshaping our industry and accelerating the paperisation movement, including EUDR and PPWR. Drawing on our European experience with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks now emerging at state-level in the US, we will examine infrastructure readiness across packaging materials and how paper's established collection systems support more favourable EPR implementation.

We will showcase how Mondi is reimagining the possibilities of paper packaging, unlocking next-generation solutions guided by our bold belief that every industry and application is within our reach. Our commitment to this vision is demonstrated through our latest product launch: Ad/Vantage Smooth White WS, developed specifically for the US market. This calendered white kraft paper combines bleached short and long fibre sulphate pulp to deliver high strength and wet strength performance for retail and food service applications such as food-grade interleaving paper.
 
Marco Macoratti | Head of Sustainable Packaging Solutions & Circularity for Retail brands, Mondi

Cellulotech’s patented process revolutionizes paper by functionalizing it at low cost while keeping it fully recyclable and compostable in standard waste streams. This breakthrough transforms paper products into high-performance materials with barriers and functional properties that can replace plastics, waxes, silicones, and more. Beyond being a cost-effective and sustainable alternative, it unlocks entirely new high-value applications for the paper industry, creating opportunities in sectors such as hygiene, construction, and beyond.
 
Romain Metivet | Founder & CEO, Cellulotech

Lignin is one of the most bio-abundant materials on the planet and constitutes 30% of non-fossil organic carbon.  Lignin is a key derivative of paper making, with over 220 million tons generated each year.  AgWaste is also a primary source of lignin to include root vegetables, and husks of grains such as oats, wheat, and rye.  Today, much of that lignin is burned after harvest or used as a low-grade binder for applications such as filler in roads.  Earthodic has developed functional, bio-based barrier coatings using lignin.  This talk will explore the functional barrier characteristics of these coatings on paper, along with technical and commercial learnings as Earthodic scales production.
 
Natasha Melton | Head of Product Development, Earthodic

Steve Ottone | Technical Service Representative, MCP Mallard Creek Polymers