In Finland, UPM Biochemicals and Selenis have partnered to produce partially biobased polyethylene terephthalate glycol resin, a highly transparent, FDA-approved bioplastic for applications in cosmetics and personal care packaging, heat shrink sleeves, and durable goods.
Under the terms of the agreement, UPM will supply Selenis with biobased mono-ethylene glycol to produce partial BioPETG. Trade-named UPM BioPura™, the biobased MEG is produced by UPM at Leuna, Germany, using wood as feedstock.
“As the packaging industry is truly striving for a more environmentally friendly future, incorporating bio-based materials like UPM BioPura™ alongside an ever-increasing share of recycled materials will be an essential part,” Michael Duetsch, Vice President Biochemicals at UPM, said in a press statement.
Selenis, a subsidiary of IMG Group, produces specialty polyester resins.