32TEMA CENTRAL I MAIN TOPIC functional coatings based on proteins, polysaccharides, or natural waxes, designed to be recyclable or compostable depending on the application. The Challenge of PFAs and Food Safety For decades, fluorinated substances (PFAs) have been used to confer water and grease repellent properties on paper packaging, such as those used for fast food, popcorn bags, and baking paper. Although effective, these compounds are persistent in the environment, can bioaccumulate, and have been linked to adverse health effects, leading to their progressive restriction in multiple regions. Faced with this situation, the development of safer and more sustainable alternative solutions has become a priority for the industry. At AIMPLAS, we work on PFA-free functional coatings, formulated from biopolymers, which guarantee the necessary barrier properties for food packaging without compromising its recyclability or environmental impact. These solutions include the use of natural polymers such as proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids, which allow us to move toward safer packaging systems aligned with the principles of the circular economy. Paper or plastic? It's not a black and white issue There is growing social and commercial pressure to replace plastic with other materials. This trend has been driven by marketing campaigns that, although well-intentioned, have generated a misconception: that any alternative to plastic is automatically better for the planet. The reality is much more complex. According to a study by the Denkstatt GmbH institute, if we were to replace all current plastics with alternative materials, the environmental impact would increase 2.7 times due to the greater weight, volume, and energy consumption in production and transportation. Furthermore, many of these packages end up in multi-layer and multi-material structures that are difficult to recycle, causing consumer confusion and reducing the effectiveness of collection systems. Therefore, at AIMPLAS, we advocate a vision based on objective data and life cycle assessments (LCAs). It's not about eliminating plastic, but rather using the right material for each application, optimizing resources and facilitating its recycling or recovery at the end of its useful life. Future-Forward Solutions The coatings developed by AIMPLAS, specifically formulated for paper and molded pulp, combine the best of both worlds: the recyclability of paper and the technical functionality of polymers. These solutions are applied using continuous printing or coating technologies, are free of controversial substances, and are designed to facilitate material separation and recovery. In addition, we have the analytical and technological capabilities to develop new materials, characterize their performance, verify their food safety, and assess their real environmental impact through LCAs. We support companies in their transition to more sustainable packaging with rigorous technical criteria. In conclusion, we could say that, in the race for sustainability, plastic is not the enemy, but an essential tool if used intelligently and responsibly. As a coating, it expands the range of materials used in packaging, providing functionality, safety, and efficiency. At AIMPLAS, we will continue to focus on innovation in materials, eco-design, and life-cycle analysis to build a more sustainable packaging sector based on science, collaboration, and knowledge. Because what matters is not what a package is made of, but rather how much it protects, how much impact it has, and how it can be recycled. Plástico y sostenibilidad en los envases: un aliado invisible en la economía circular Plastic and sustainability in packaging: an invisible ally in the circular economy Sarai Pradas, investigadora líder de Recubrimientos, Adhesivos y Converting en AIMPLAS Lead Researcher for Coatings, Adhesives and Converting at AIMPLAS
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