Seaweed board added as paper specialist seeks to deliver positive change
Further underlining its sustainability commitment, paper company G.F Smith has achieved B Corp certification and the announcement coincides with the Hull-based business – which supplies many greeting card companies – being granted global exclusivity for selling Notpla’s board made from seaweed.
Using 30% seaweed content that’s a bi-product of the manufacturing process for Notpla’s innovative bioplastic, plus 60% recycled post-consumer paper waste, the innovative paper is produced at a speciality paper mill in northern Europe.
And the tactile and distinct product that’s fully printable is the latest innovation for the company founded in 1885, which now offers numerous sustainable papers and boards including some made from recycled coffee cups that are used by numerous publishers.
In becoming a member of the B Corp movement G.F Smith joins 1,500 British companies and more than 6,000 worldwide as part of the group of community-driven businesses from all sectors, united by the shared goal of achieving an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
Certification confirms a business meets and maintains high standards of social and environmental impact, and is actively engaged in the building of a better world.
Managing director Gareth Sheekey said the values represented in this globally-recognised certification “go hand in hand with our long-term strategy”, adding that “it is not a badge of honour as much as a declaration of intent”.
Gareth commented: “We are delighted to be joining the B Corp movement, a community of brands who each seek to deliver positive change for people, our planet and our communities.
“Our certification reflects the importance we place on our role in the world, and we are excited to work with other like-minded businesses across the B Corp community to deliver positive impacts and change. We are working hard with new initiatives as we continue to look forward, delivering on our strategic commitments.”
The Notpla seaweed paper and board comes in three weights, 140, 280 and 350 gsm, and two sizes at B1 and SRA3 for Indigo and digital printing.
Along with the seaweed and paper waste it has 10% virgin fibre for strength and improved formation, making it entirely natural and free of any synthetic additives as well as being recyclable and biodegradable plus home compostable.
