Stora Enso has officially opened its cutting-edge dry forming production unit in Skene, Sweden.
This facility, recognized as the largest and most advanced of its kind, marks a significant achievement in sustainable packaging technology. Set to begin operations in Q4 2024, the unit promises to redefine eco-friendly packaging solutions after completing large-scale testing.
The Skene facility will utilize a groundbreaking dry forming process to manufacture high-performance fiber-based products, including cup lids, aimed at replacing traditional plastics in food and beverage packaging. Unlike the conventional wet forming method, this dry process greatly reduces water and energy consumption, enhancing the sustainability of fibre-based manufacturing. Additionally, the process recaptures and reuses excess material, making it nearly waste-free.
The innovation at the heart of this development is PulPac's Dry Molded Fiber technology, which enables fast, efficient production. This collaboration allows Stora Enso to cater to the growing demand for renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging. Dry forming technology offers a lower carbon footprint than single-use plastics and allows flexibility in barrier additives for tailored functionality and surface finishes.
“Stora Enso is the first to scale up this dry forming technology,” said Anna Stenström, Operations Director at the Skene Production Unit. “We are excited to explore the future possibilities of this sustainable approach.”
Juuso Konttinen, Senior Vice President of Biomaterials Growth Businesses at Stora Enso, praised the collaboration with PulPac: “Our team’s dedication, alongside PulPac’s innovative technology, has allowed us to meet the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.”
As Stora Enso continues its mission towards low-carbon, circular solutions, the Skene unit highlights its leadership in advancing environmentally friendly practices in the packaging industry.
Stora Enso is a global leader in renewable solutions for packaging, biomaterials, wood construction, and paper. Based in Finland and Sweden, the company focuses on replacing fossil-based materials with sustainable alternatives, supporting a low-carbon future. Operating in over 50 countries, Stora Enso is committed to advancing the circular economy and reducing carbon emissions.
