Avery Dennison’s focus on sustainability was in the spotlight at LabelExpo Europe 2015 with the introduction of two bio-based polyethylene label films. These new products are the first self-adhesive PE filmic labels with a face stock that includes more than 80 percent renewable content and offer brand owners the opportunity to meet their target on renewable resources in packaging, while continuing to benefit from the functionality and performance of a regular polyethylene label. 

“Economic growth, natural resource scarcity and an increasing demand for goods and services will all contribute to an uncertain supply of finite non-renewable resources in the years to come,” said Xander van der Vlies, sustainability director at Avery Dennison Materials Group Europe. “With our expanding product range of sustainable label materials – which now includes these bio-based PE label films – we can support converters who want to fulfill brand owners’ needs for packaging from renewable resources, while also helping them to provide a differentiating product and drive sales in a fast-growing segment.”

The bio-based PE self-adhesive laminates are available in a white and a clear version. 

The resin used for the new bio-based PE films is made from Bonsucro® Certified Sugar Cane, which follows rigorous social and environmental monitoring prior to certification.

Both new products offer performance and recyclability comparable to standard PE85 resin.

With the proper precautions and preparation*, these films act as drop-in replacements, meaning converters can substitute conventional PE for a bio-based PE label film without investing in new machinery.

By using biomass to create a PE label film which contains more than 80% bio based resin, brand owners can reduce their dependency on fossil based packaging materials. The introduction of the bio based film is Avery Dennison’s response to their growing interest in using bio-based packaging materials.

Thanks to close collaboration between various members across the value chain, it has been possible to bring these bio-based PE label films to market.

Avery Dennison worked with global resin producer Braskem and Belgium converter Desmedt Labels to prototype and test the bio-based PE label at the Belgium facilities of Ecover, manufacturer of ecologically sound cleaning products.

This new product is one component in the wider efforts towards achieving Avery Dennison’s 2025 Sustainability Goals, and it demonstrates the way in which environmental improvements can go hand in hand with business success.

* Due to the nature of the resin, special care is required for optimal conversion on the press. We recommend the dies should be sharp and not damaged for the die-cutting.