SIG Combiblock, a manufacturer of carton packaging for drinks and liquid foods, has developed a new 1-liter aseptic carton that reduces the carbon footprint of packages by 28 percent, compared to conventional carton packs, thanks to a new cardboard composite.

The CO2 reduction was confirmed through a lifecycle assessment conducted by the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research in Germany. The lifecycle assessment analyzed and evaluated all key factors and processes throughout the lifecycle of the packaging from sourcing the raw materials to shipment from the production plants.

The packaging cardboard composite is made from more than 80 percent wood fiber from Forest Stewardship Council certified sources, reports Reuters.

The packaging also includes a new, ultra-thin polyamide layer that acts as a barrier to protect against odors. There are also fine internal and external layers of polyethylene that forms a liquid barrier and keeps moisture out.

The first company to use the new packaging will be Milch-Union Hocheifel eG (MUH), one of the largest manufacturers of dairy products in Europe, according to the company.

The combibloc EcoPlus carton packs can be processed using standard SIG Combibloc filling machines with a one-time adjustment to the filling machine parameters.