CINCINNATI — Flexible packaging provider ProAmpac has partnered with Western Michigan University (WMU), a top North American institution in fiber technologies and recycling, to advance the development of fiber-based sustainable packaging solutions for various industries, like pet food. 

The partnership is part of ProAmpac’s “Fiberization of Packaging®” strategy, which aims to deliver curbside recyclable and compostable alternatives to traditional packaging. 

“The partnership with Western Michigan University supports ProAmpac’s material science team on developing innovative fiber-based technologies,” said Hesam Tabatabaei, senior vice president of global product development and innovation at ProAmpac. “WMU’s expertise in fiber manufacturing and broad range of capabilities will help accelerate our ability to deliver fiber-based packaging that meets growing market demand for curbside recyclable and compostable solutions. It also enables us to proactively address Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations with scalable, science-based innovation.”

ProAmpac is integrating this new collaboration into its growing network of academic partners focused on material and food science. According to ProAmpac, these alliances enhance the company’s research capabilities directly support its ProActive Sustainability® and ProActive Intelligence® platforms, which aim to foster innovation across all product categories. 

“We’re excited to partner with ProAmpac to advance fiber-based packaging innovation,” said Kecheng Li, Ph.D., chair and Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) fellow of WMU. “By combining our fiber expertise and barrier coating with ProAmpac’s material science leadership and global commercial scale, we can accelerate the development of more sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions.”

Read more about packaging solutions and trends for pet food and treats.