Unilever has joined with industry members to introduce a world-first ever paper-based laundry detergent bottle.
The technology used for the bottle was developed in collaboration with the Pulpex consortium, Diageo, Pilot Lite and other members. The paper-based bottles are sprayed inside with a coating that repels water, enabling the paper-based packaging material to hold liquid products like laundry detergent, shampoo and conditioners.
“To tackle plastic waste, we need to completely rethink how we design and package products,” said Richard Slater, chief R&D officer at Unilever. “This requires a drastic change that can only be achieved through industry-wide collaboration.”
The prototype paper-based laundry detergent bottle was developed for laundry brand Omo and is set to debut in Brazil by early next year, with a plan to roll-out in Europe and other countries soon after.
“Innovating with alternative materials is a key part of our sustainable packaging strategy and will play an important role in our commitment to halve our use of virgin plastic materials by 2025,” said Richard Slater, chief R&D officer at Unilever.
