Bio-based protection that works
Shipping sensitive optical and electronic equipment leaves no room for error - minor shocks or dust can affect performance. That’s why Thorlabs Sweden partnered with Emballageteknik and Stora Enso to create renewable, high-performance packaging to replace fossil-based foams.
“For us, protection and cleanliness are critical. Papira® has proven that a bio-based material can meet our technical requirements while supporting our sustainability ambitions”
– Olle Rosenqvist, Development Manager at Thorlabs Sweden AB.
“This project shows what’s possible when material innovation and converting expertise come together. Papira® performs well as shock protection and is a good bio-based alternative to traditional foam solutions”
– Lucas Pontén, Sustainability & Quality Manager, Emballageteknik.
Thorlabs Sweden designs and manufactures advanced optical and electronic components used in research, industry, and high-tech applications worldwide. Packaging plays a critical role in ensuring products arrive in perfect condition, regardless of destination.
Together, the three partners developed a Papira® based packaging solution that delivers reliable shock protection, clean handling, and consistent performance — without relying on fossil-based materials.
As a packaging specialist, Emballageteknik leveraged its extensive expertise to translate material innovation into a scalable, production-ready solution. By combining Papira® with smart design and deep application knowledge, the team ensured both performance and efficiency.
Made from renewable wood fibers, Papira® is designed for circularity — recyclable, biodegradable, and free from plastics. For Stora Enso, the collaboration is a clear demonstration that sustainability and high performance can go hand in hand.
“This collaboration proves that bio-based materials can protect even the most sensitive technology. Together with Emballageteknik and Thorlabs Sweden, we’re showing that sustainable packaging can deliver on industrial demands,” says Juulia Kuhlman, Director, Business Development, New Fiber Products at Stora Enso.
Setting a new benchmark for protective packaging
Proven in industrial use, the Papira® solution meets the highest requirements in electronics and optics packaging. The collaboration shows how value chain partnerships can turn innovation into performance — and open the door to what comes next.
We are the renewable materials company
We are the leading provider of renewable products in packaging, biomaterials, and wooden construction, and one of the largest private forest owners in the world. We create better choices for society by accelerating the transition to a circular bioeconomy.