Is it time to stop using glue and labels on paper? While paper packaging may be recyclable, adhesives can mess up the process. Scientists have developed water-soluble adhesives and laser sealing technologies to solve this issue. German firms Fraunhofer, Hermann Ultraschall, and Henkel are at the forefront of innovation but face challenges with existing machinery design and certain paper types.

Henkel's cold seal solution allows barrier coated paper for food products, while Fraunhofer's PAPURE project aims to develop a fully automated production process. The European PPWR regulation mandates higher recyclability standards by 2038, driving these developments forward.

The transition comes with costs and redesigns but promises a greener future for packaging. Volker Franke from Fraunhofer is optimistic about market uptake, saying: 'We feel it's likely that we can bring this technology to market.'

These technologies could revolutionize the industry if they overcome current limitations. Despite initial hurdles, Henkel believes in the potential of their solutions, as seen by a customer who said: 'This is an innovation we have never seen before.'

The path ahead involves engaging all players in the supply chain to ensure successful implementation.