Continuous improvement in UPM Packaging Papers

(UPM, Helsinki, 12 May 2011) – UPM is continuously improving its operations in terms of its products and sustainability issues. 

With the wet-end improvement in its UPM Pietarsaari mill last year, the formation of the paper improved up to 30% for machine finished grades, which results in better print result. The strength improved up to 15% for sack paper grades. More uniform formation improves the stability of paper sheet giving improved runnability.

The improvement was made to answer to the needs of the market. “Our sack paper customers needed a stronger and better performing paper, and by this improvement we can now produce what they need,” says Jussi Toikka, VP of Converter Segment, UPM.

New pilot product being developed

UPM is continuously finding new sustainable products to better serve new packaging market needs. The ongoing development is in the field of a new type of online barrier coated paper. The UPM SwanBarrier light and UPM SwanBarrier are made of monomaterial, coated on one side and available in 50 and 60 gsm. They are suitable for flexo printing and are approved for direct contact with dry food. The papers are recyclable and disposable.

First products to pilot are products where extended life time, water vapour barrier and/or medium grease resistance is needed.  

At the moment UPM is piloting the product and looking for partners to cooperate with and to develop tailormade products for different end uses.

UPM Packaging Papers – The sustainable alternative

UPM’s packaging papers are sustainable over their lifecycle. We use renewable raw materials, make recyclable and biodegradable products with a high share of certified fibre. UPM’s fossil CO2 emissions of paper production have been reduced by 40% per tonne since 1990. 

UPM is strongly committed to continuous improvement in economic, social and environmental performance. UPM’s environmental responsibility principles focus on products, climate, water, forest and waste. We improve energy efficiency, maximize the use of carbon-neutral energy and increase the use of biobased energy. We have the best-in-class water footprint.

For further information, please contact:

Timo Lehmuskallio, UPM, Product Manager, UPM Packaging Papers, tel: +358 40 585 2746

UPM leads the integration of bio and forest industries into a new, sustainable and innovation-driven future. Our products are made of renewable raw materials and are recyclable. UPM consists of three Business Groups: Energy and pulp, Paper, and Engineered materials. The Group employs around 22,000 people and it has production plants in 15 countries. In 2010, UPM's sales amounted to EUR 8.9 billion. UPM's shares are listed on the Helsinki stock exchange. UPM – The Biofore Company – www.upm.com

UPM´s Biofore strategy entails a long term commitment to environmental responsibility through the whole lifecycle of our products and operations. Our key areas in environmental responsibility are sustainable products, climate, water, forest and waste. The company is focusing on the continuous development of its performance, aiming towards achieving long term targets set for 2020. www.upm.com/responsibility
 

UPM , Corporate Communications
Media Desk, tel. +358 40 588 3284
media@upm.com