As single-use packaging evolves, sustainable sachets are now a business and environmental imperative. At Guardpack, we’re taking a proactive approach, collaborating with innovative material suppliers to develop greener alternatives that go beyond current legislation. Recent trials with Kelpi and Mondi showcase our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and practical solutions for our clients. This week, we detail what we’ve been up to.
Proactive Sustainability
While legislation is beginning to regulate plastic use in wipes and sachets, at Guardpack we’re not waiting for mandates to drive change. Our R&D strategy focuses on measurable sustainability goals, informed by our ongoing work to establish Scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon emissions. By understanding our carbon footprint, we can set concrete targets for reduction and actively seek materials that reduce environmental impact, including non-fossil fuel-based alternatives.
Kelpi Trials: Seaweed-Based Innovation
One of our most exciting recent initiatives is the trial of Kelpi’s seaweed-based material. This paper, with a seaweed derived coating, provides the crucial barrier properties needed for liquid sachets while offering stability for shelf life. Initial results are promising: the material is printable, runs smoothly on production machines, and forms a reliable seal. Further lab testing is planned before the next iteration in February.
Kelpi’s material addresses several sustainability challenges at once – it reduces plastic use, minimises microplastics, and is both recyclable and biodegradable, all while coming from a renewable, low-impact source. As Kelpi highlights, “Seaweed is a fantastic natural feedstock. It grows prolifically without need for fertilisers, land, or fresh water.” By trialling this material, Guardpack is exploring the future of sustainable sachets that don’t compromise performance or practicality.
Mondi Collaboration: Recyclable Alternatives
Alongside Kelpi, Guardpack is also exploring recyclable paper-based solutions with Mondi. Initial wipe sachet samples demonstrate that it’s possible to replace conventional metallised plastics with recyclable alternatives. While this is still early-stage, our collaboration shows our commitment to exploring multiple pathways to sustainable packaging. This approach ensures that our clients can access sustainable options tailored to their products without compromising on quality. We’ll keep you updated with more on this in the New Year.
A Development Pathway
These partnerships mark the first steps in a long-term R&D journey. Kelpi will return for further trials in February, and we’re actively engaging with customers interested in these solutions. By integrating sustainability into our material trials and innovation pipeline, we position ourselves as a trusted partner for brands seeking sustainable sachets that meet modern environmental standards.
Why This Matters for Our Clients
By working closely with material innovators, we offer our clients early access to cutting-edge packaging formats. This approach provides tangible benefits such as:
- Reduced environmental impact beyond current legal requirements
- Enhanced sustainability credentials for brand positioning
- Future-ready packaging solutions that combine performance and responsibility
As a wet wipe wipe and sachet manufacturer with over 25 years of experience, we have a genuine passion to lead the industry in sustainability, while delivering the quality and reliability clients expect. By taking a proactive approach, at Guardpack, we’re helping the industry move from compliance to genuine innovation in sustainable sachets.
Contact Us
As our trials with Kelpi and Mondi continue, we’ll keep exploring new materials, optimising processes, and sharing insights. Sustainability, forward-thinking and meaningful collaborations are ongoing commitments for us and we’re proud to be at the forefront of innovative change!
For more information on our plastic free wipes and packaging, get in touch with us today. SImply fill out our contact form, email us at trade@guardpack.co.uk, or speak to one of the team today on 01245 505807. We look forward to hearing from you.