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Development of complete packaging system that is fully integrated with the principles of the circular economy.
About
Tea leaves are a natural product, which will degrade naturally in household compost. Often this process is hindered by the composition of the tea bag which may contain several different (and potentially non-recyclable) materials. For example, tea bags are often manufactured from natural fibres but their recyclability can be hindered by the use of a plastic seal, which is used to close the bag once it has been filled with tea. Alternatively, other manufacturers use plastic teabags but these have recently been shown to degrade in hot (95˚C) water, releasing billions of microplastic particles into every cup. The tea bag itself is not the only issue however; string, adhesive and paper are commonly found on individually wrapped tea bags and unrecyclable, composite ‘foil’ wrappers are often found within cardboard boxes of teabags. An innovative packing solution should address all of the materials used whilst still delivering the tea to the customer in optimum condition. We propose an alternative approach, which is to develop an integrated packing solution. This will encompass all levels of packing associated with the tea bags. To do so we will utilise bio-renewable polymers and materials that are compatible with the principles of the circular economy.
Key Benefits
Other ‘environmentally friendly’ tea bags exist but often the remainder of the packaging contains plastic/foil, which are not readily recyclable. We believe this would be the first packaging system that was fully compatible with the circular economy Through the this, we see Twinning’s gaining a sustainable competitive advantage and making a positive contribution to the UK and the United Nations Sustainable agenda.
Applications
Recyclable packaging for the hot beverage industry. Transferability of the technology to other like or allied applications in the Twinings Group.