Cascades, Kingsey Falls, Que., Canada, has launched Respak, which it describes as "the ecological answer to the environmental challenge of polycoated packaging products." Designed primarily for the food and food services industries, Respak is recyclable and compostable, without compromising on the performance and durability characteristic of traditional polycoated packaging, the company notes.

 

Well known for its resistance, polycoated cardboard is widely used around the world. However, it is not recyclable, Cascades points out, adding that "every minute, as much as two metric tons of polycoated cardboard are used, enough to cover the Empire State Building three times per hour, or 72 times a day." Cascades is offering Respak, an "ecological alternative" that is recyclable, compostable, and made from 50% recycled fibers. Respak has a unique barrier that repels water, oil, and grease just as efficiently as ordinary polycoated cardboard, the company notes.

 

Marc-André Dépin, president and CEO of Norampac, the Cascades group specializing in packaging solutions, explained that "the development of Respak goes hand in hand with the company's values of respect for the environment and innovation that have made Cascades a leader in eco-friendly packaging for 50 years. As the designers and producers of Respak, we are very pleased to be the first to offer the packaging and food industries, as well as consumers, a green alternative that will significantly reduce the impact of food consumption on waste." Based on results from a preliminary life cycle assessment, Respak's environmental impact is 50% less than that of the polycoated cardboard currently in use.

 

Cascades also pointed out that Respak complies with the main food safety standards, including those established by the Food and Drug Administration for packaging that comes in contact with dry, aqueous, and fatty foods.

 

More information is available online.