Synaptic Connections Newsletter 2019 Week#08

February 18, 2019 www.Synapticpackaging.com Image - Grand Tetons, Wyoming

Week#8 of 2019 - In our newsletter last week, we explored end-of-life solutions for plastic waste.  Specifically, we introduced the emerging technology of pyrolysis, and highlighted the opportunity for increased product development using post-consumer recycled plastics (Adidas shoe case study).  This week, we would like to highlight the emerging technologies that offer an alternative to oil-based plastics.  Many people are now commonly aware of compostable plastics used for food service items like forks and cups.  Most of these products today are made from PLA plastic.   Critics will be quick to point out some of the challenges of PLA.  Our opinion, is that PLA plastics are "directionally correct, and better than yesterday".  That said, we are focusing our R&D efforts on next generation solutions that strategically go further beyond the performance envelop of PLA to enable a broader spectrum of emerging materials as commercial alternatives to oil-based polymers.  If you look back at our initial BLOG you will see a challenger statement - "Built to Last - But Really, Should Your Packaging Last Forever".  There are many strategic facets behind this vision and we are highly motivated to be working with venture capitalists, progressive material producers, and packaging converters to build tomorrow's supply chain, today.

Enjoy this week's selected news stories and we hope they stimulate engaging dialogue with your colleagues.  Our goal is to get you thinking about innovation and opportunities for commercial growth through the lens of sustainability.

Packaging Sustainability//

• EPA moves to limit PFAS chemicals

• Meal Kits - study finds they can cut food waste by 2/3, but packaging is a problem

• Cascades acquires two US molded pulp packaging plants

• Zelfo Technologies in Germany developing new technology to turn food waste into packaging

ReThink Waste//

• Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) reports recycled plastic is less damaging to the environment then virgin plastic

• Utah opens first public operated anaerobic food waste digester

• Nissan - Thinking ahead and develops second use camping application for retired car batteries

Innovation//

• Solgami - Start up firm develops solar power generating window blinds for apartments

• Wearable technologies - new solar powered, flexible, touch sensitive, graphene material demonstrated

• Walmart deploying in-store robots to scan shelves for stocking and price updates

• Amazon invests $700 million in Rivian, a Detroit electric truck start-up firm

Upcoming Trade Events//

February 25-28 Feb, SWANA, Boston, MA

26-28 Feb, GreenBiz, Phoenix, AZ

27-28 Feb, LuxPack, LosAngeles, CA

March

4-6 March, Smithers Pira Sustainable Packaging, Chicago, IL

6-9 March, Natural Products West, Anaheim, CA

11-13 March, Plastics Recycling, Washington, DC

18-21 March, National Restaurant Association, Chicago, IL

24-26 March, Paper2019, Chicago, IL

Contact Us

gary.robinson@synapticpackaging.com