In the 1990s, the Venice Lagoon faced a significant environmental challenge: an abnormal infestation of algae. This excessive growth disrupted the delicate ecosystem, leading to eutrophication—a process where water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, causing dense plant growth and the death of animal life from lack of oxygen. The initial solution was to gather and transport the algae to landfills, a quick fix but unsustainable as it reduced landfill capacity.
Consequently, there was a push to find alternative and innovative ways to repurpose this abundant algae as raw material for industrial processes. This approach aimed to not only mitigate the environmental impact but also create a sustainable solution by turning a problem into an opportunity.
From Infestation to Hero Material: Introducing The Alga Carta
This led to the creation of Alga Carta, a paper that innovatively repurposes seaweed through upcycling. Invented by Favini in the 1990s, it has become one of the most popular sustainable papers in the world, micronised and reused, instead of cellulose. Adhering to the circular economy principles, it is recyclable, biodegradable and FSCTM certified making it a sustainable raw material for many applications, including packaging.
What Are The Benefits of Seaweed in Packaging?
One of the most exciting aspects of seaweed packaging is its potential to reduce reliance on chemical additives. Seaweed contains polysaccharides, compounds that can serve as raw materials or active agents in packaging. These polysaccharides possess natural antioxidant properties, which can help extend the shelf life of packaged foods by minimising lipid oxidation. Additionally, they offer gelling, emulsifying, and thickening properties that make them valuable in food and medical applications.
Packaging Applications
Available in two colours, white and ivory, and with weights from 90 gsm to 350 gsm, it is a sustainable paper made for a wide array of packaging, like rigid boxes that offer sturdy protection for cosmetics, toiletries, home products, electronics and so much more. Finish comes in uncoated, rough and naturally mottled in light colours for a fully customised packaging. Additionally, it serves as an excellent material for paper bags, combining durability with a unique aesthetic appeal that sets brands apart.
Or, as a food-grade pouch packaging from pantry items to snacks. This natural and biodegradable alternative not only supports sustainable practices but also meets the growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious packaging options.
In addition, it is a great paper for producing stationery and coffee table books like Lisa Woollett’s photography book printed on Alga Carta which documents her wanderings along the shores of Great Britain and tell the stories of natural and man-made things found along the shore.
Credit: Favini
Enriching The Brand Story: A Benefit
An upcycled raw material is always a great jumping point as there is a lot of backstory to unravel. The unique origin and production process of seaweed paper can be woven into the brand narrative. It highlights the fascinating journey of how seaweed is harvested, processed, and transformed into high-quality packaging with a sustainable DNA as it is recyclable, biodegradable and FSCTM certified made for modern-day applications, including packaging.
Wrapping It Up
Alga Carta exemplifies the transformative potential of sustainable innovation, turning an environmental challenge into an eco-friendly packaging solution. By integrating seaweed paper into packaging and products, brands can highlight their commitment to sustainability, offering packaging that is not only recyclable and biodegradable but also rich with a compelling backstory. It’s a powerful narrative of innovation and environmental responsibility that aligns perfectly with the values of today’s modern consumers.
Get in touch with Myerton Packaging to inquire about sustainable papers available for your packaging.
