Australia’s Innonature Packaging Solutions has developed a protective sleeve for wine and spirit bottles made from sustainably sourced cork and repurposed material left over from cork stopper production.
The company says its “Suber Sleeve” aligns with the country’s goals to reduce single-use plastics and improve packaging circularity.
By giving new life to cork that would otherwise go to waste, Innonature’s cork sleeve provides a lightweight, moisture-resistant, reusable, and home-compostable alternative to traditional packaging.
Unlike paper, which can only be recycled a limited number of times, cork is naturally renewable and plays a vital role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
Cork oak trees can be safely harvested every seven to nine years, up to 17 times over their lifespan, ensuring a reliable supply for future generations.
Other features of the product include:
- Circularity: Renewable, reusable, and recyclable in Portugal.
- Home compostable: Breaks down naturally in organic waste bins.
- Certified sourcing: Manufactured by FSC-certified suppliers.
- Logistics-friendly: Lightweight, moisture-resistant, and flat-packed to reduce emissions.
- Customisable: Branding and QR code options to share the story of cork and circular design.
“The Suber Sleeve is more than packaging,” said CEO Gabriela Steiner-Zajax. “It shows that brands are serious about reducing waste and embracing innovation.”
