ACTEGA, Living Ink launch first carbon-negative UV flexo ink with -4.16 kg CO₂ footprint

NORTH AMERICA – ACTEGA and Living Ink Technologies have launched ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink, the first commercially available UV flexographic ink formulated with a carbon-negative algae-based pigment that sequesters -4.16 kg of CO₂-equivalent per kilogram, more than offsetting conventional carbon black’s 3.75 kg emissions.

The innovation, developed with Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages and printed by NextGen Label Group, marks a watershed moment for sustainable packaging.

After five years of research, Waiākea has become the first food and beverage brand to replace 100 percent of its black ink with the algae-based alternative.

Ryan Emmons, CEO of Waiākea, explained that none of the sustainable inks tested over the last decade have met both performance standards and carbon-reduction potential until now.

By the Numbers: Carbon Impact

Conventional carbon black, derived from petroleum, emits 3.75 kg of CO₂-equivalent per kilogram.

The Algae Black pigment used in the new ink sequesters carbon, delivering a net footprint of -4.16 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram.

If the global supply of black pigment were replaced, the impact would prevent and remove an estimated 100 million metric tons of CO₂-equivalent annually, roughly equivalent to taking 25 million cars off the road.

Technology and Commercial Validation

The pigment is produced from discarded algae biomass sourced from the nutritional supplement industry.

Through patented technology, the biomass is thermally treated into biochar, purified, stabilized, and milled into printing ink.

The joint development agreement between ACTEGA and Living Ink was formalized in 2024, with Waiākea sponsoring research and early commercial adoption.

NextGen Label Group integrated the ink into beverage label production following rigorous press trials, proving compatibility with conventional UV flexographic systems.

Market Availability

ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink is now available for trials and bulk orders through ACTEGA, with initial availability covering North America and the European Union.

Additional geographic rollouts are planned. While the pigment is currently limited to black, additional color innovations are under development.

Scott Fulbright, CEO of Living Ink Technologies, noted that Algae Black pigment was developed to reimagine how color can serve the planet.

Ben Lux, CTO of ACTEGA, emphasized that the ink represents a meaningful advancement in both performance and sustainability, helping customers reduce their environmental footprint while meeting high production standards.

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