Rosenberger Optical Solutions and Infrastructure (Rosenberger OSI), a German fiber optic connectivity, cabling solutions and infrastructure service, has announced that its internal plastic packaging for patch cords will be converted to bio-based and biodegradable polymers. This came from an innovative project in which the company addressed the issue of sustainable and ecologically sound packaging. The goal of the initiative is to replace the plastic film currently in use with an environmentally friendly and resource-efficient alternative.
Dr. Benjamin Weigand, Innovation Manager at Rosenberger OSI, says: "The introduction of biopolymer packaging on an industrial scale represents more than just our added value as a company. Our customers have also given us feedback on the importance of environmentally friendly solutions. Given the current discussions about sustainability, especially in the data center sector, we are pleased to be able to contribute to this,".
Cooperation with Fraunhofer IAP
The new packaging was selected and produced in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymers (IAP) Schwarzheide Technology Center. In the field of new packaging solutions, bio-based and biodegradable plastics are identified as alternatives to their petroleum-based counterparts previously used. In terms of its appearance, stability and feel, this new bioplastic is absolutely comparable to packaging used to date and is almost indistinguishable. It offers two major advantages over solutions made of paper. On the one hand, biopolymers offer the added value of better protection of sensitive fiber optic connectors from contamination as well as lighter weight and greater durability. On the other hand, plastic packaging is more efficient to produce. Studies have shown that it takes about four times as much energy to produce an equivalent paper bag. When selecting materials, great attention is paid to ensuring a significantly higher percentage of renewable raw materials.
No microplastics, processed through recycling bins
In addition, Profectus Films GmbH was selected as the supplier for the packaging foil procurement, and the company obtained the base material from certified sustainable sources in Central Europe. The future packaging used by Rosenberger OSI will be biodegradable according to the European standard EN 13432 and will not form microplastics. Disposal of biodegradable films can be routinely done through recycling bins ("yellow bins").
Efficient packaging reduces waste
In addition to the use of new packaging materials made from renewable raw materials, the scope of sustainability aspects is being further expanded. Rosenberger OSI will also focus on efficient packaging in the future, with the long-term goal of saving materials and reducing landfills.
Activities planned for gradual implementation in the coming year include
1. Use of innovative packaging machines that recognize different product formats and adjust foil volumes accordingly
2. 40% material savings by optimizing the thickness of biopolymer foil packaging
3. Direct printing on biopolymer packaging, which largely eliminates the need for self-adhesive labels
4. Digitally supplied patch cord measurement protocols and installation instructions
