ERC Packaging has been actively researching the use of the new biodegradable polymer known as PLA to meet the requirements of today’s environmentally aware market.
PLA is a natural material obtained from predominately corn starch. This film type will completely decompose within a matter of months and in fact returns nutrients to the soil.
ERC Packaging is pleased to be a provider of high quality PLA shrink labels and sleeves which can be used as a substitute for the more common and non-recyclable PVC.
With the ever increasing prices associated with petroleum based plastics PLA is now becoming a viable alternative.
These labels can be provided in continuous roll form to suit most automatic shrink label applicators or in pre-cut pieces for manual application.
ERC can assist in label design and can offer an extensive range of applicator equipment ranging from low speed units of 100 pieces per minute or less up to high speed lines of 300 per minute or greater. We can also offer whole of plant lines with filling, capping, induction sealing and collation.
One of the first projects to use this ecologically friendly material is Greencare Developments who produce a range of garden friendly laundry detergents.
Previously using PVC labels, which had to be removed prior to recycling, they are now able to offer a 100% eco friendly product.
Other PLA items in the current ERC range include food containers and non-shrink films.
It is also hoped that PLA bags will be released in the near future along with other biodegradable containers that use sugar cane pulp as the base material.
ERC Packaging are committed to providing greener packaging alternatives.