The companies aim to deliver high-performance packaging materials aligned with evolving global recyclability regulations

UPM Specialty Materials and BASF today announced a strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating the adoption of recyclable, fiber-based packaging solutions for food and non-food applications.

The collaboration combines UPM’s barrier and barrier base papers with BASF’s Joncryl HPB (high performance barrier) waterborne barrier coating technology to enable high-performance packaging materials designed for recyclability and reduced dependence on conventional plastic-based or PE-laminated structures.

The companies said the initiative is aligned with growing regulatory requirements and sustainability targets across the packaging industry, including the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. The collaboration seeks to support converters, formulators and brand owners in developing packaging solutions that combine protection performance with design-for-recycling principles.

UPM’s packaging paper portfolio, including UPM Solide Lucent and UPM Asendo, is designed for demanding converting and printing applications. When paired with coatings based on BASF’s Joncryl HPB polymers, the materials enable the development of recyclable paper-based packaging structures suitable for a broad range of applications while meeting regulatory and performance requirements.

Packaging samples demonstrating the performance and sustainability benefits of the combined solutions are expected to be showcased at interpack 2026.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mika Uusikartano said:

“The transition to recyclable fiber-based packaging requires both advanced barrier performance and close collaboration across the value chain. Our barrier papers are developed to support co-creation with partners, enabling new, high-performance packaging applications. The collaboration with BASF demonstrates how combining innovative barrier technologies with barrier papers can deliver functional, recyclable solutions that accelerate the packaging transformation.”

Rolf Alles added:

“The demand for sustainable packaging solutions is growing rapidly along the value chain — from brand owners to converters and formulators. UPM’s premium paper grades for flexible packaging, combined with barrier coatings based on waterborne Joncryl HPB resins from BASF form a strong and credible reference approach for the development of paper-based alternatives designed to replace plastic-based or PE-laminated structures.”

The collaboration reflects broader industry efforts to improve packaging circularity and reduce environmental impact through innovation in renewable and recyclable materials. By integrating advanced fiber-based substrates with high-performance barrier technologies, UPM and BASF aim to support the next generation of sustainable packaging applications.