Global packaging and paper group Mondi has partnered with German manufacturer VPF, an expert in self-adhesive materials and coatings, to create the world’s first sustainable release liner range made from recycled paper.

VPF committed to make their labels more sustainable by producing them from recycled materials. In a next step, they wanted their release liners to also be made of recycled materials and collaborated with Mondi to make this possible. Mondi used their customer-centric EcoSolutions approach to support VPF’s sustainability commitment, and with Mondi’s EverLiner M R, all the components of VPF’s label laminates are now made from recycled materials.

Mondi’s EverLiner M R was launched in February and is the first machine-glazed release liner with 70% recycled content on the market. As well as using less fresh fibres, it is available with FSC or PEFC-certified paper and significantly reduces the CO2e footprint compared to standard liners. This means EverLiner M R is a more responsible release liner solution for labels, tapes, envelopes, and industrial applications.

Working closely together to test and trial VPF’s transition to EverLiner M R, enabled the new products to be rolled out on existing production machinery.

Holger Steinbach, technical director VPF, says, “The functionality and performance of Mondi’s EverLiner with our adhesive labels range is comparable with a conventional liner, and the product helps us achieve our sustainability goals. This is just one step in our eco-journey, and we are committed to creating products that work better for our planet. By partnering with Mondi we can now be confident that our whole offering is the most responsible one available for our wide range of customers.”

Vincenzo Pierro, business development manager, Labels, Mondi, adds, “As a development partner of VPF, we worked closely with the team from the outset, offering a sustainable release liner alternative with no need to change the silicone system, and creating products that are effective, yet reduce the environmental impact. By using our EcoSolutions approach, we were able to ensure a smooth transition and a successful product launch for a more sustainable solution and are proud to be launching this world first in labels.”