EUROPE – Foils manufacturer ITW ShineMark has collaborated with WestRock, a leading provider of differentiated paper and packaging solutions, on a program in Europe to eliminate plastic waste—not only from consumer packaging but also from the production process involved in cold foil application.

ITW ICF2 Cold foil is an increasingly popular choice for decorative and brand security purposes because it is a plastic-free effect compatible with recyclable and biodegradable paper carton packaging. One challenge is that cold foil requires a plastic film carrier which is removed during application.

To eliminate this waste factor, WestRock partnered with cold foil supplier ITW ShineMark for a solution. “We would not be here today if we were not committed to the circular economy,” explains Anne Cecile Sabo, global category manager at WestRock. “With fiber as the basis for our packaging business, we’ve always been committed to sustainable forest management and replacing plastic with fiber-based materials. Packaging consumers care about this alternative. Further, we’re proud to help our print customers work toward meeting their sustainability goals.”

With this European PET recycling pilot in place, ITW ShineMark is looking to perfect the process and to expand it globally. Sustainability team chairman Frank Kelly, global sales director, explains, “Aligning our products and services with the closed-loop goals of customers and end-users is not just a feel-good effort, but a strategic priority at a corporate level.” According to Illinois Tool Works (ITW) vice chairman Christopher A. O’Herlihy, “ITW’s longstanding commitment to sustainability is rooted in our core values and fundamental to who we are as a company. Supported by strong governance practices, we are inspired to make a difference for our people, our communities, and the environment.”

Learn more at www.ITWShineMark.com.