Sustainable Packaging Innovation At Interpack 2026

Running from the 7th to the 13th May, Interpack 2026, one of the world’s leading packaging exhibitions, will see organisations across the print and paper value chain coming together to demonstrate the latest developments in sustainable packaging innovation.

Among them, Two Sides members: The Navigator Company, Mondi and Lecta are showcasing how fibre-based materials are evolving to meet the growing demand for packaging solutions that combine performance with reduced environmental impact.

Advancing Fibre-Based Alternatives

A clear theme emerging from this year’s event is the continued shift towards renewable, paper-based packaging as a viable alternative to more carbon-intensive materials. As regulatory pressures increase and businesses seek to meet sustainability targets, innovation in fibre-based solutions is accelerating rapidly.

The Navigator Company is presenting developments within its gKRAFT™ packaging range, alongside new moulded fibre products. These solutions are designed to offer strength, versatility and functionality across a variety of applications, while maintaining the environmental benefits associated with responsibly sourced, wood-based fibres. The expansion into moulded fibre also reflects a broader move towards replacing more complex or less recyclable packaging formats with simpler, circular alternatives.

Mondi’s presence at Interpack highlights the importance of collaboration in driving packaging innovation. By working closely with OEM partners, the company is demonstrating how paper-based solutions can be effectively integrated into existing packaging systems. These partnerships bring to life practical applications that not only maintain product protection and efficiency, but also help reduce reliance on non-renewable materials. This collaborative approach is key to scaling sustainable packaging solutions across multiple industries.

Lecta, meanwhile, is focusing on the development of next-generation barrier papers, an area that continues to play a critical role in expanding the use of fibre-based packaging. By enhancing the functional properties of paper, particularly in applications that require protection against moisture, grease or oxygen, these materials are helping to replace traditional plastic-based barriers while remaining compatible with established recycling streams.

Enabling a More Circular Packaging System

Together, these innovations reflect a broader transition within the packaging sector towards a more circular and resource-efficient model. Paper-based packaging offers a number of inherent environmental advantages, including its origin from renewable raw materials and its high recyclability across established collection systems.

As technologies continue to improve, fibre-based solutions are increasingly able to meet the technical demands of modern packaging, from durability and shelf life to machinability and design flexibility. This progress is enabling brands and manufacturers to make more sustainable choices without compromising on performance.

Two Sides Perspective

At Two Sides, we recognise the importance of continued innovation in supporting the transition to more sustainable packaging systems. The work being showcased by members such as The Navigator Company, Mondi and Lecta at Interpack 2026 demonstrates how the industry is responding to environmental challenges through responsible sourcing, technological development and collaboration across the value chain.

As the demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, events like Interpack provide a valuable platform to highlight progress and share solutions that contribute to a lower-impact, circular future.