UPM, BASF join forces to accelerate recyclable fiber-based packaging for food, non-food applications

INDIA – UPM Specialty Materials and BASF have announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate recyclable, fiber-based packaging, combining UPM’s barrier papers with BASF’s Joncryl HPB waterborne coating technology.

The initiative is aligned with growing regulatory requirements across the packaging industry, including the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste, which will require all packaging placed on the EU market to be recyclable by 2030.

The collaboration seeks to support converters, formulators, and brand owners in developing packaging solutions that combine protection performance with design-for-recycling principles.

Complementary Technologies for Circular Packaging

UPM’s packaging paper portfolio, including UPM Solide Lucent and UPM Asendo, is specifically designed for demanding converting and printing applications. 

When paired with coatings based on BASF’s Joncryl HPB polymers, the materials enable the development of recyclable paper-based packaging structures suitable for a broad range of food and non-food applications while meeting regulatory and performance requirements.

UPM’s packaging papers are certified recyclable according to CEPI v. 2.0 (Europe), PTS-RH 021/97 cat II, and WMU SBS-E (U.S.), while BASF’s Joncryl HPB line has been shown not to negatively impact paper recyclability per CEPI v. 2.0, with third-party testing of complete structures ongoing.

Industry Leadership Perspectives

Mika Uusikartano of UPM Specialty Materials explained that the transition to recyclable fiber-based packaging requires both advanced barrier performance and close collaboration across the value chain. 

He noted that UPM’s barrier papers support co-creation with partners, enabling new, high-performance packaging applications, and that the collaboration with BASF demonstrates how combining innovative barrier technologies can deliver functional, recyclable solutions.

Rolf Alles of BASF added that demand for sustainable packaging solutions is growing rapidly along the value chain, from brand owners to converters and formulators. 

He stated that UPM’s premium paper grades combined with BASF’s waterborne Joncryl HPB resins form a strong reference approach for paper-based alternatives designed to replace plastic-based or PE-laminated structures.

Showcasing at interpack 2026

Packaging samples demonstrating the combined solutions will be showcased at interpack 2026 from May 7–13 in Düsseldorf, Germany. BASF’s Resins team will be at Hall 10, Stand A44, and UPM’s team at Hall 8A, Stand F29.

When Performance Meets Circularity

Barrier coatings that compromise recyclability defeat their purpose. UPM and BASF have engineered a system where the barrier performs and the paper recycles. For converters facing 2030 deadlines, that is not incremental improvement, it is a bridge to compliance.

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