Collaboration with Western Michigan University supports curbside recyclable and compostable packaging innovations.

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ProAmpac has partnered with Western Michigan University (WMU) to accelerate the development of fiber-based sustainable packaging solutions, advancing its strategy to offer recyclable and compostable alternatives to traditional packaging materials.

“The partnership with Western Michigan University supports ProAmpac’s material science team on developing innovative fiber-based technologies,” said Hesam Tabatabaei, senior vice president of global product development and innovation at ProAmpac. “WMU’s expertise in fiber manufacturing and broad range of capabilities will help accelerate our ability to deliver fiber-based packaging that meets growing market demand for curbside recyclable and compostable solutions. It also enables us to proactively address Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations with scalable, science-based innovation.”

WMU is a recognized leader in fiber technologies and recycling. The collaboration will integrate into ProAmpac’s existing network of academic partners and support its ProActive Sustainability and ProActive Intelligence platforms aimed at advancing circular packaging design.

“We’re excited to partner with ProAmpac to advance fiber-based packaging innovation,” said Dr. Kecheng Li, chair and TAPPI fellow at WMU. “By combining our fiber expertise and barrier coating with ProAmpac’s material science leadership and global commercial scale, we can accelerate the development of more sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions.”