Mondi, Kelpi & Guardpack trial seaweed and paper-based materials for wipe packs

Mondi and Kelpi have joined forces with Guardpack, a UK manufacturer of wet wipes and liquid-filled sachets, to conduct early-stage trials of seaweed and paper-based materials for sachet packaging.

Guardpack is currently calculating its Scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon emissions to set measurable reduction targets. This data-driven approach is said to support a shift toward non-fossil-fuel-based materials and environmentally responsible packaging formats.

Jeremy Freedman, managing director at Guardpack, tells Packaging Insights: “Regulations restricting plastic content in wipes, such as the upcoming Wet Wipes Containing Plastic legislation in the UK, is an important step forward, but it also highlights a wider challenge — while the wipe itself may change, the packaging can still present an environmental issue.” 

“EPR requirements are increasing pressure to address the full product lifecycle. Although many wipe packs are technically recyclable, limited curbside infrastructure in the UK means they often end up in general waste, driving interest in materials that deliver environmental benefits without relying on consumer behavior.”

Jeremy Freedman, managing director at Guardpack.“In response, Guardpack is working closely with material suppliers to develop practical biodegradable and bio-based packaging solutions that reduce persistent plastic waste while aligning with customer expectations and an evolving regulatory landscape.”

Ongoing collaboration

Guardpack is collaborating with Mondi on a recyclable paper-based wipe-sachet. The companies say the solution is in the early stages of evaluation.

A second development is the ongoing trial of Kelpi’s seaweed-based coating. The material, a seaweed-derived coating on paper, reportedly provides the barrier properties required for liquid products while maintaining shelf stability.

According to the companies, the material has demonstrated “reliable sealing, excellent machinability, and strong printability” during recent production-line trials. The material will undergo further laboratory testing, with a second trial scheduled for February. 

Kelpi and Mondi share that their end users have expressed interest in the sustainable packaging solutions.

“Three key trends are converging to accelerate the shift toward biodegradable packaging. Growing consumer awareness is reshaping expectations, with customers increasingly seeking products that do not contribute to long-term plastic waste, particularly in categories such as wipes where disposal rarely aligns with recycling routes,” shares Freedman. 

“At the same time, greater scrutiny of corporate social responsibility across the supply chain is driving demand for innovation.”

“Guardpack has always aimed to stay ahead of the curve. These trials represent the next phase of our journey — ensuring sachet packaging can be both high-performing and genuinely sustainable.”