James Cropper unveils Rydal Eco, setting a new standard in sustainable paper innovation

UK – James Cropper, a global leader in paper, packaging, and advanced materials, has launched Rydal Eco, a groundbreaking addition to its sustainable portfolio.

The new product redefines what’s possible in recycled materials by combining premium performance with environmentally responsible design.

Rydal Eco is an uncoated board made entirely from recycled paper fibres, yet it performs on par with coated board.

With a brilliant white surface and exceptional print quality, it delivers sharp imagery, vibrant colours, and precise finishes such as varnishing, debossing, and die-cutting—without requiring the harvest of a single new tree.

Designed specifically for the luxury goods sector, Rydal Eco offers both visual impact and tactile elegance, making it ideal for packaging cosmetics, wines, and fragrances.

Its versatility extends to compatibility with a broad range of production techniques, including lithography, silk screen printing, foil blocking, laser cutting, and die stamping.

Gareth Fisher, Sales Director at James Cropper, highlighted the company’s legacy of innovation during the launch, “This is the latest step in our 180-year journey of asking ‘what if?’ In 1845, it was ‘what if we bought a mill?’

“In 1921, ‘what if we installed a steam turbine to power our business and the village?’ Today, it’s ‘what if recycled fibre could match the performance of virgin fibre?’ The answer is Rydal Eco.”

Fisher emphasized that James Cropper is committed to pushing boundaries and rejecting “business-as-usual” materials in favor of excellence, craftsmanship, and sustainability. 

Sustainability as standard

Rydal Eco is manufactured in compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), supporting supply chains free from deforestation.

It joins the broader Rydal collection, which includes products made using the company’s pioneering CupCycling technology, which upcycles used coffee cups into premium packaging material.

James Cropper’s sustainability ethos also includes using reclaimed fibres from denim, office waste, and industrial offcuts.

To mark its 180th anniversary, James Cropper has also collaborated with papercraft artist Nathan Ward on a unique 3D paper diorama titled “Message in a Wrap.”

Made entirely from James Cropper’s moulded fibre and paper, the piece features a detailed depiction of Bruichladdich’s Islay distillery and the company’s historic Burneside mill.

“There’s a natural synergy between our brands,” said Jordan Scott, Marketing Communications Manager. “Both are rooted in heritage and driven by innovation and sustainability.”

Ward adapted his techniques to work with specially produced pulp sheets, bringing together art and industrial material science in a way that visually narrates the brand’s mission—blending tradition with transformation in modern packaging.

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