Beyond plastic and paper: Industrial hemp in packaging
Given the new and stricter packaging regulations in the EU, such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), the need for alternative raw materials is growing and industrial hemp could be a possible solution. Let's see why.
With the introduction of strict packaging regulations in the European Union, which stipulate that all packaging materials must be at least 70% recyclable or reusable by 2030, companies face higher penalties and disposal fees for non-compliance. In addition, the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) is gradually banning single-use plastic products, forcing companies to increase recycling rates and manufacturers to take greater responsibility.
Against the backdrop of this changing legal framework, industrial hemp represents a strategically orientated solution: It is fully recyclable, consists of a single material and complies with current and future EU directives.
In addition, EU initiatives such as ‘Circular Packaging’, ‘4evergreen’ and the ‘Green Deal’ actively promote bio-based and renewable packaging materials, including industrial hemp, making it an attractive and politically supported option for companies looking to fulfil their corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
Papacks is a Cologne-based startup which has specialized in developing technology that transforms natural fibres from sources like industrial hemp, grass cuttings, algae, bagasse, and miscanthus into versatile and sustainable packaging solutions.
In collaboration with Ukrainian Hemp, Papacks has established a scalable and reliable supply chain for industrial hemp, specifically targeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional packaging materials. Their joint efforts are set to deliver the first hemp-based packaging products to the market by late 2025.
Why industrial hemp is well-suited for packaging
Hemp fibres bring unique qualities beneficial to packaging. Due to their naturally long structure, hemp fibres exhibit notable tensile and tear strength, essential for secure, protective packaging. Manufacturers can achieve high functionality using fewer materials, resulting in reduced overall costs and lower transportation emissions.
Moreover, packaging from industrial hemp shows excellent performance under humid conditions, resisting moisture-related swelling and degradation better than wood-based alternatives. This feature makes hemp packaging particularly useful in scenarios such as refrigerated transport or outdoor storage. Furthermore, natural coatings can be applied to enhance water resistance without affecting the packaging’s recyclability.
Luisa P.
Despite its robustness, hemp packaging remains remarkably lightweight. The fibres enable the creation of thin yet sturdy packaging solutions, ideal for reducing shipment weight and volume. Businesses aiming to minimize environmental impact and transportation costs will find hemp packaging to be an effective choice.
Hemp’s inherent properties further underline its value as packaging material. Its natural resistance to mould and bacteria is particularly beneficial for packaging foods, cosmetics, and hygiene products. Additionally, hemp ages slower compared to traditional paper, maintains its visual appeal longer, and provides a tactile and splinter-free surface, thus improving consumer interaction and product safety.
From an ecological standpoint, industrial hemp cultivation is highly advantageous. The crop reaches maturity within four to five months, requires minimal water resources, and grows without the need for pesticides or intensive fertilisers. It supports biodiversity by providing habitats for pollinators, such as bees, and enhances soil quality through effective crop rotation practices.
In hemp cultivation and processing, industrial hemp provides a cellulose content of around 70 %, meaning that significantly more cellulose is obtained per hectare than from forestry sources, which results in significantly higher efficiency. This efficiency helps to reduce pressure on land use and prevent deforestation. At the same time, industrial hemp requires, as already mentioned, fewer chemicals and less energy input. As a result, the carbon footprint of industrial hemp is significantly lower compared to conventional paper or plastic packaging.
Luisa P.
Additionally hemp-based packaging fits seamlessly into current paper recycling systems and can endure up to eight recycling cycles—significantly more than standard wood-based paper. Even at the end of its lifecycle, whether incinerated or composted, hemp packaging remains completely biodegradable and does not produce microplastic pollution.
Recent regulatory developments in the EU, particularly the Single-Use Plastics Directive, have progressively restricted disposable plastic usage, prompting industries to adopt sustainable alternatives. Packaging made from industrial hemp already meets these new regulatory requirements, providing businesses with compliance security and reduced regulatory costs. Furthermore, EU initiatives such as ‘Circular Packaging’ and the ‘Green Deal’ actively encourage the adoption of renewable materials like industrial hemp.
In conclusion, industrial hemp represents a practical, sustainable, and regulatory-aligned solution for modern packaging needs. Its combination of strength, moisture resistance, lightness, hygienic benefits, and environmental compatibility positions hemp packaging as a compelling choice. For businesses seeking responsible and future-proof packaging solutions, adopting industrial hemp could offer clear environmental benefits and tangible long-term market advantages.