At Wynalda Packaging, we believe that high-impact aesthetics should not come at the expense of the planet. As brands move toward more circular economies, eco-friendly inks and coatings have become a critical factor in packaging.
So, which options offer the best balance of performance and planet-friendliness? Let’s dive into the details.
Eco-Friendly Ink Options
The sustainability of an ink is largely determined by its “vehicle”—the liquid that carries the pigment. Here is how the most common industry options compare.
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Vegetable-Based Offset
This is one of the most eco-friendly choices available. By replacing petroleum-based mineral oils with plant-derived oils, these inks offer high renewable content and very low VOC emissions. They are also widely recognized for having excellent de-inkability, making them a favorite for recyclable paperboard.
Petroleum-Based Offset
While traditionally popular for their excellent color strength and gloss, petroleum-based inks rely on mineral oils and result in high VOC emissions. They are increasingly being phased out by brands with strong sustainability mandates.
UV-Curable
UV-curable inks use acrylate oligomers and photoinitiators that dry instantly under UV light. While they produce no solvent emissions, the photoinitiators are not considered “benign,” and require high energy for curing. Their recyclability is also variable, often proving difficult to strip from fibers.
Water-Based Flexo
Frequently used for corrugated packaging, water-based flexo inks are a solid sustainable choice. They utilize water and resin rather than harsh chemicals, resulting in very low VOCs and excellent recyclability.
Landa NanoInk®
Representing the cutting edge of digital print, Landa NanoInk® is another eco-friendly choice. Because it is a digital process, it significantly reduces press waste by eliminating plates. It offers moderate renewable content and excellent de-inkability, making it a “strong” marketing value for eco-conscious brands.
Eco-Friendly Coating Options
Coatings protect the print and provide the tactile experience of the package. For modern brands, the goal is to find the ‘sweet spot’ where high-performance durability, premium aesthetics, and environmental stewardship intersect.
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AQ (Aqueous) Coatings
Aqueous coatings are water-borne acrylics that are generally considered the most sustainable finishing option.
- Gloss: Offers a high-shine finish with very low VOCs. It is a standard for food and pharma packaging due to its excellent recyclability.
- Matte: The sustainability leader in coatings. It provides a paper-like feel and is the best option for packages requiring laser-etching windows for serial numbers or barcodes.
- Soft-touch: Provides a velvety, rubberized feel for luxury packaging. While it has a slightly lower environment score than other AQ options, it remains a more sustainable alternative to plastic laminates.
UV Coatings
UV coatings provide a premium, durable finish but require high energy to cure and offer low renewable content.
- Gloss: Known for a slick and glassy feel with very high surface gloss.
- Satin: Provides a smooth, medium-gloss finish often used for premium general packaging.
- Matte: Offers a smooth, low-gloss look, slightly better for recyclability than its gloss counterpart.
- Soft-touch: A modified acrylic/urethane coating that provides a premium, rubbery feel for luxury spirits and cosmetics, though it is more expensive.
Film Laminate (PET/BOPP)
Film lamination involves adhering a literal layer of plastic to the paperboard. While it offers an excellent barrier and scuff resistance, it is the least sustainable option. It is difficult to recycle and relies on plastic films, making it a challenge for brands aiming for plastic-free packaging.
Conclusion
Every choice made during the design process leaves a footprint. By opting for vegetable-based inks and aqueous coatings, brands can achieve a premium look while maintaining high recyclability and low emissions.
At Wynalda Packaging, we are committed to helping you find the perfect balance between shelf presence and environmental responsibility. Speak with a packaging expert to get your project started!