Japan’s paper industry, which has been declining, is being boosted by the search for alternatives to plastic. last year, Nippon Paper Industries unveiled a prototype paper straw that does not alter the flavour of beverages and does not get soggy. The company also hopes that its Spops containers will eventually make up 20% of the country’s $2.72bn shampoo refill market. In Finland, paper company Kotkamills has developed a “game changer” paper cup without an inside coating, making it easier to recycle. Denmark’s EcoXpac has also developed a wood fibre bottle in partnership with brewer Carlsberg.
Japan’s paper industry, which has been declining, is being boosted by the search for alternatives to plastic. Last year, Nippon Paper Industries unveiled a prototype paper straw that does not alter the flavour of beverages and does not get soggy. The company also hopes that its Spops containers will eventually make up 20% of the country’s $2.72bn shampoo refill market. In Finland, paper company Kotkamills has developed a “game changer” paper cup without an inside coating, making it easier to recycle. Denmark’s EcoXpac has also developed a wood fibre bottle in partnership with brewer Carlsberg.