Researchers transform coconut husks into eco-friendly packaging

Researchers transform coconut husks into eco-friendly packaging

Sustainability

Woodfree Ltd., a Cardiff-based company, has collaborated with Bangor University’s Biocomposites Centre to transform discarded coconut residues into a sustainable alternative for paper packaging materials.

The initiative aims to combat deforestation associated with traditional paper production by utilising coconut husks, which are abundant and readily available worldwide.

With a vision to address environmental concerns, Woodfree Ltd. has been researching non-wood sustainable materials for packaging applications. Their innovative approach has attracted attention, leading to support from Innovate UK's Transformative Technologies grant.

Coconuts © Bruna Rabello (CC BY 2.0)

Led by brothers Gurpreet Singh and Arjundeep Singh, Woodfree Ltd. initially began their research at a small scale. However, their collaboration with Bangor University's Biocomposites Centre has allowed them to expand their efforts and explore the commercial potential of their eco-friendly packaging solution.

Gurpreet Singh from Woodfree Ltd said: We are very glad to be working with the team at the Biocomposites Centre on this. Together, we’ve processed something in the region of just under a ton of waste coconut husks, making them into fibre and then assessing this pulp in terms of strength, durability, mouldability, reaction to water and stack-ability – all very important practical considerations in making the product ready for the market. We’re now at the stage where we’re producing prototype packaging such as trays and punnets that can be used to showcase what could be produced using these fibres.

Latest Packaging News

Ocean bound plastics deemed unsuitable for food contact by UK regulators
Business

Ocean bound plastics deemed unsuitable for food contact by UK regulators

An assessment by the Joint Expert Group on Food Contact Materials (FCMJEG) has evaluated the use of...
German frozen bakery market leader ARYZTA continues to automate with Lantech packaging machines
Supplier News

German frozen bakery market leader ARYZTA continues to automate with Lantech packaging machines

With 26 large bakeries in 27 countries, including 12 in Europe, and around 8,000 employees...
Syntegon: Producing the perfect gummies and jellies
Supplier News

Syntegon: Producing the perfect gummies and jellies

When we say we are gummy experts, we mean it. Backed by over 95 years of jelly expertise, we...
Winemaker upholds wine tradition with Craemer CB3 High pallet box
Supplier News

Winemaker upholds wine tradition with Craemer CB3 High pallet box

With love and passion, a family of winemakers combines tradition and modern craftsmanship at their...
Spectra Packaging: It’s getting warmer – protect your PET bottles
Supplier News

Spectra Packaging: It’s getting warmer – protect your PET bottles

As temperatures climb, protecting PET bottles from heat damage becomes more important than ever. At...