Japanese consumer goods manufacturer Kao has partnered with Mondi to create a recyclable, lightweight packaging solution for its Goldwell hair lightening products.
The new stand-up pouch is said to reduce plastic usage without compromising on strength and durability.
Goldwell’s hair lightening products created for in salon use were previously packed in rigid plastic containers.
However, by working with Mondi along the paper and packaging suppliers’ EcoSolutions approach, Kao reduced the overall amount of plastic in individual packs by 80%.
Mondi’s solution packs the powdered products in flexible, re-closable stand-up pouches that are monomaterial, ensuring they are easily recyclable.
The pouch is provided to the user together with paper instructions inside a carton box, enabling the pouch to be stacked when stored, which results in a lower carbon footprint compared with the previous packaging alternative.
The empty pouches can be folded flat to ensure efficient transport to the factory.
When filled, they provide optimum protection for the product, preventing contact with moisture or vapour.
For convenience, the packaging is also easy to reclose with a recyclable top slider and temper-evident membrane.
“The solution we developed with Kao contains a chemical-based product that is particularly sensitive, so we needed to consider safety and quality at all times,” said Iris Ross, Regional Sales Consumer Flexibles at Mondi.
“The new packs are completely secure during shipment when filled and easy to transport. Kao is passionate about making the right changes for a more sustainable world while ensuring the high quality and user-friendliness of its products, to deliver the best customer experience.”
Elmar Mussenbrock, Director Sustainability, Kao Salon Division, added: “Sustainable packaging is one of the key elements of our ESG strategy and reducing plastic is our first priority – what hasn’t been produced cannot cause any harm.
“With its great expertise and professional approach, Mondi has enabled us to deliver a much more progressive pack for our Goldwell LightDimensions SilkLift range, reducing the carbon footprint of the packaging by 65% compared to its former box.”
