Toray Plastics (America), Inc., announces that its Torayfan® Division’s new, state-of-the-art, 8.7-meter, five-layer, in-line coating polypropylene film line with automated slitting began producing commercial volumes of packaging and label films in May. The customized, proprietary equipment is considered by Toray to be one of the most capable BOPP film lines in the world. It is enabling Toray to expand its flexible packaging product lines, including a robust label portfolio, and manufacture highly-engineered next-generation laminations and mono-material films. The unique, energy-efficient line also gives a boost to Toray’s own sustainability initiative by reducing the company’s carbon footprint further. The additional OPP capacity is targeted for packaging, label, medical, and industrial applications. “Toray has always been committed to innovation and growth on behalf of its customers, and this new line enhances our ability to offer them a greater variety of film options while helping them commercialize their projects effectively and efficiently,” says Christopher Roy, Executive Vice President, Toray Plastics (America). “The entire Toray team is very proud of the division’s accomplishment, especially given the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.” Roy adds that the Torayfan Division has plans for more automation in 2021, an upgrade of an existing line in 2021-22, and a new metallizer in 2022. “It’s a very exciting time for Toray and the division.”

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the packaging industry. First in the UK and Europe, and now US and Canadian brands are moving towards paper-based packaging solutions. This transition reflects a growing corporate commitment to environmental sustainability, increased regulations and penalties for using plastic, and a desire to meet consumer demand for packaging that is both sustainable and easier to recycle, knowing it is not going into landfills. All of these motivators drive a growing movement to support a more circular economy, which is one based on the reuse and regeneration of materials or products, especially as a means of sustainably continuing production. One of the primary reasons behind the shift towards paper-based packaging is a heightened awareness of environmental issues, particularly the impact of plastic pollution on the planet. Paper-based packaging offers several environmental benefits, making it an attractive alternative to plastic.

Metsä Board has concluded a logistics agreement with Kuljetusliike Kalevi Huhtala Oy for transport between the Kemi board mill and Ajos harbour, in Kemi. All exports from the Kemi board mill will be centralised in Ajos. "Efficient export logistics is a key factor in paperboard production. We require efficient and low-emission solutions from our chosen partners in logistics," says Timo Ahonen, VP, Kemi Board mill.