EU directive complicates cardboard production for packaging in Finland

An EU directive aimed at reducing plastic is creating obstacles for cardboard products that were previously considered plastic-free. According to the directive, single-use items must now carry a turtle logo if they contain any plastic, as interpreted by the EU. This includes coatings on cardboard that consist of chemically modified natural polymers.

The directive has led to significant issues, highlighted by the closure of Kotkamills in Kotka, which ceased production of its plastic-free packaging in June. The company reported that the directive negatively impacted its competitive position and future outlook.

In contrast, Colombier Finland, located in the neighboring municipality of Pyhtää, continues to coat packaging cardboard and paper with moisture and grease-resistant materials without traditional plastics. Their coated cardboard is used for coffee cups, ice cream bowls, and various other products. However, according to the EU directive, coffee cups and ice cream bowls are now classified as single-use plastic products.

Colombier’s CEO, Juha Ebeling, emphasized that their cup cardboard is home and garden compostable, recyclable, and free from plastic. The company supplies its coated packaging material across Europe, leaving it to customers to decide if they will print the turtle logo on the products.

Henna Sundqvist, a researcher at VTT, noted that the directive does not impose bans but requires labeling, arguing that distinguishing between plastic and plastic-free single-use products is unnecessary. She believes the focus should be on reducing overall consumption of single-use packaging.

Despite the challenges posed by the directive, Colombier Finland is committed to producing recyclable and compostable products from renewable resources, bolstered by a recent €6 million investment in their production line.