Stora Enso, Novapor partners to supply wood-based foam packaging

FINLAND – Stora Enso, a leader in renewable materials, has partnered with German packaging innovator Novapor to supply Papira, a wood cellulose-based foam, to a Danish furniture manufacturer. 

The eco-friendly alternative to traditional foams promises to reduce CO2 emissions while maintaining robust protective qualities for delicate products like high-end bathroom mirrors.

“Collaborating with Novapor aligns perfectly with our vision. Their 50 years of expertise in innovative packaging solutions has driven the success of this pilot project,” said Juulia Kuhlman, director of business development at Stora Enso Biofoams.

The partnership, spanning two years, has focused on refining the conversion process for Papira, achieving remarkable progress with minimal challenges.

Novapor, known for its advanced water jet cutting technology, has adapted its processes to handle Papira’s unique properties. 

Thomas Søgaard, head of Novapor Nordic, emphasized the material’s relevance: “Shifting to wood fiber-based solutions is a vital step forward. Monomaterial packaging, entirely made of paper and cardboard, is highly valued by our client, Københavns Møbelsnedkeri.”

Københavns Møbelsnedkeri, a Copenhagen-based producer of premium furniture, sought a sustainable packaging solution to replace polyethylene (PE) foam for its exclusive mirrors.

“Papira offers excellent material properties with no dust or static electricity during handling,” Søgaard noted.

“However, transitioning from fossil-based foams requires redesigning the packaging to leverage cellulose foam’s distinct characteristics.” 

He added that Papira’s compatibility with water-based glue enhances its environmental credentials compared to traditional hot glue methods.

A key advantage of Papira is its recyclability in standard paper and cardboard streams, aligning with increasingly stringent EU waste management regulations set to tighten by 2030. 

“Offering a foam that integrates seamlessly into existing recycling systems is a significant benefit,” Kuhlman stated. 

This feature supports Københavns Møbelsnedkeri’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint while delivering products in eco-conscious packaging.

Søgaard highlighted the growing demand for sustainable solutions: “Biodegradability and carbon reduction are critical for our clients. Papira stands out as a mature solution compared to other alternatives.” 

In a related development, Stora Enso recently announced a partnership with the XXXLutz Group to test Papira and Fibrease, another wood-based foam, across their furniture product range, from dinner plates to cabinets. 

This initiative, launched in early 2024, aims to further reduce CO2 emissions and promote recyclable packaging, signaling a broader industry trend toward sustainable materials.

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