Sulapac’s founder and CEO Suvi Haimi, said, “We are launching a demo for a recyclable, microplastic-free and marine biodegradable straw. This is the world’s most sustainable straw that can be produced on an industrial scale and we have jointly developed it with Stora Enso. Billions of plastic straws are produced and used every week. This straw has the potential to be a true game-changer.”

The straws are based on Sulapac’s bio-composite material made of wood and natural binders. The material is designed to be recycled through industrial composting and is biodegrade in the marine environment.

Annica Bresky, executive vice president, consumer board division, Stora Enso “This is an important step for Stora Enso and it showcases our long-term commitment for gradually replacing fossil-based materials with renewable solutions. Our collaboration with Sulapac is a great example of what we can achieve through partnership in terms of driving innovation to create sustainable solutions within the bio-economy.”

Stora Enso signed a joint development agreement with Sulapac in May 2018 to license its materials and technology.

Hannu Kasurinen, senior vice president head of liquid packaging and carton board, said, “Eco-awareness is a strong driver for consumer demand, and our customers want help in replacing non-renewable materials. Different bio-composite solutions, such as renewable caps and closures and straws will be add-ons and a complement to our own consumer board portfolio, bringing additional value to our customers.” 

Sulapac’s targets the straws to be commercially available in Q2 2019.