Braskem and Antilhas, a Brazilian company acknowledged by the market for its innovative packaging, is starting to supply Mãe Terra with the mono-material stand-up pouch (SUP) packaging, brought to market in 2019. The new product, 100% made from polyethylene and no lamination, with sustainable characteristics and circular cycle, will be used in the food sector for the first time in the packaging for the new line of Ritto special rice.

As the name suggests, mono-material packaging is produced from a single raw material, a characteristic that ensures a high level of recyclability since there are no mixed materials in the product formulation. In addition, its recycling generates a high-quality, post-consumer recycled resin and a greater range of possible applications. 

According to Américo Bartilotti, Business Director of Packaging and Consumer Goods at Braskem, the initiative reflects the company's engagement to stimulating the sustainable cycle in the plastic supply chain. "We have a public commitment to the carbon neutral circular economy, and among our premises is working with partners to conceive products that enhance recycling efficiency and the product returns to the supply chain. We are proud of the trajectory we have built in partnership with Antilhas. Our Research & Development teams succeeded in developing a mono-material solution that meets market needs and, at the same time, addresses the recycling issue", he states. 

The packaging was produced with EB (Electron Beam) technology, an innovative external printing process by electron beam curing with an exclusive Antilhas patent. This technology ensures superior printing quality, with the same brightness of laminated material and possibility of exterior finishings with sensory appeal. The technology brings other additional benefits to the operating process: up to 50% less electric energy consumption, with no loss of color quality and brightness in the final material; and up to 95% less volatile organic compounds, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

"Innovation and commitment to the environment are two pillars that are part of our DNA. The 100% PE stand-up pouch packaging, developed in partnership with Braskem, is the result of much research and dedication leading to the development of EB printing and a product that does not require lamination. Launching Ritto, together with Mãe Terra, is the endorsement that our efforts were worth it", says Rodrigo Massini, Antilhas Executive Manager. 

According to Isis Bialoskorski, Mãe Terra Marketing Manager, the project in partnership with Braskem and Antilhas is another way for the company to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and society. "For 40 years, we have had a commitment to social and environmental well-being, prioritizing small-scale producers and native and organic ingredients from our Brazil. But our mission does not stop there, we also look for packaging that strengthens the positive cycle in the economy. To that extent, we have various initiatives for improving our packaging, with the latest being the special Ritto rice range, which makes us proud as it is the first brand product that includes circular chain for waste", adds the executive. 

The mono-material stand-up pouch packaging can be used in applications by different sectors such as cosmetics, food, and home & personal care. In addition, the solution also contributes to guarantee and maintain the product's characteristics, quality and protection. 

Waste that reaps rewards
Molécoola, the environmental loyalty program accelerated by Braskem Labs in 2020, was invited by the companies to support the real circularity process, and in practice, the solution. Through the initiative, participants earn points upon exchanging post-consumer waste and may convert them into products from partner brands, including Mãe Terra. In order to engage consumers, Mãe Terra will boost the loyalty program points. 

At the end of the process, all packaging will be returned to Braskem, which will be in charge of recycling and returning the waste into the production chain. "Circular economy depends on actions in every link in the production and consumption chains, from industry to consumer. Encouraging actions that consider the full product cycle is part of our commitment", explains Bartilotti.