Look Mum it’s plastic free!

uni-ball pens introduce plastic-free packaging uni-ball pens introduce plastic-free packaging

Say hello to our new biodegradable, plastic-free packaging

uni-ball pens introduce plastic-free packaging

We are renowned for innovation and quality when it comes to our pens. Now we’re applying that same diligence and expertise to help the planet. We’re doing this by reducing the use of single-use plastic in our product packaging. That’s why we’ve launched new plastic-free packaging across our key ranges.

Working with retailers

uni-ball launches plastic free packaging

The new plastic-free packaging launched with stationery retailer Ryman in July 2019. The new packaging marks a change from plastic blister cards to 100% cardboard, plastic-free packaging. Repackaged pen lines include our flagship uni-ball Eye – one of the world’s most popular rollerballs – and our attractive Air pens, in two, three and five-piece packs.

We have thought through every aspect of the new plastic-free packaging. As well as being plastic-free the new packs are completely biodegradable and recyclable.

Reducing our carbon footprint

Plastic free packaging

Every effort has been made from sourcing to manufacturing to ensure the plastic-free packaging reduces its carbon footprint.

The pack’s board is climate-neutral; made from 100% PEFC certified (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) – the world’s largest forest certification system for sustainable forest management. The new packaging’s inks are vegetable rather than mineral-based, the latter often being derived from fossil fuels. The packs use a non-toxic, water-based blister varnish that does not affect composting or cause environmental damage. Plus its gloss UV Varnish uses energy-efficient UV light to finish. The result? Fantastic looking packaging that’s completely recyclable, biodegradable and compostable.

The print process has been designed with eco-concerns at its heart. The print pre-press uses chemical-free Kodak computer-to-plate technology. The packaging is printed using the Komori Press, which boasts one of the shortest press set-up available anywhere. This significantly cuts paper and water waste while vastly reducing the use of press consumables. Plus, its direct dampening system, where the dampening solution is applied directly to the plate, enables non-alcohol printing using the minimum amount of water. What’s more, we have used the same UK-based printer to produce the new packaging – requiring minimal set-up and reducing air-miles.

Just the beginning

uni-ball plastic free packaging

The new packaging is just the beginning. While currently available across the company’s key ranges, it will eventually expand to cover the uni-ball pen range. The company have also introduced a suite of green initiatives across its shipping, delivery, office and warehouse management to fulfil its goal to become more sustainable and environmentally conscious in every aspect of the business.