DUBLIN (News release) -- The Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box Ibi facility in Spain has started the production of bags with a new and more sustainable thermo-laminated metallised film - M-Compact 77.

Thanks to the thermo-lamination technology, which bonds individual films together through exposure to heat without using the adhesives that are required for classic lamination, production of M-Compact 77 is more environmentally friendly and resource efficient. Smurfit Kappa has achieved a 12% bag weight reduction and 7% less CO2 emissions.

Commenting on the innovation, Victor Juan, Film Manager at Smurfit Kappa Ibi, said: "We have been developing this film for more than two years; challenging our suppliers, analysing our own film structures and applying our strictest testing protocols.

"Having full control of the manufacturing processes on all steps, we can guarantee excellent performance of our new metal bags on production lines, supply security and efficient traceability for our customers, and good product preservation during transport, on shelf and at home."

Pascual Martinez, General Manager of Smurfit Kappa Ibi, added: "Sustainability is embedded into all our business operations. Today, Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box cannot imagine a single product development that does not involve reducing the carbon footprint of the lifecycle of our bags.

"Our integrated production model, big investment in advanced technologies and research and development have already enabled us to make significant progress towards our environmental goals."

M-Compact 77 will broaden the vast portfolio of films offered by Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box for different market applications and supply chain requirements.