The Films for Future (F3) project aims to eliminate packaging waste with sustainable cellulose-based coatings.
Launched in 2022, the F3 project is a collaboration between Finland’s VTT Technology Research Center, LUT University and 34 industry partners innovating sustainable packaging.
This initiative, funded by the EU’s ERDF funding program, aims to develop sustainable cellulose-based alternatives to the plastic films currently used in packaging (Figures 2 and 4).
The F3 project progressed from transparent free-standing cellulose films to the production of coatings on various board grades with enhanced material barrier properties. Compared to films, less material is required to coat the substrate, and the substrate acts as a support, improving the gas barrier performance of the substrate. The smooth coating surface is easily available for further lamination if desired (Figure 3).
on top of the cardboard
Films and coatings are produced continuously on VTT’s regenerated cellulose film pilot line in Biolkki Espoo, Finland (Figure 1).
Coatings and films are processed using traditional fiber sources (dissolving pulp grades) as well as alkaline dissolved kraft pulp (from softwoods and hardwoods). Using kraft pulp as a feedstock allows for the integration of F3 technology into existing facilities, including pulp mills.
One of the main goals of the F3 project was to evaluate the recyclability profile of the materials created. Coated board recycling was tested in soil, marine environments, and using industrial composting standards. The results showed that boards with F3 regenerated cellulose coating did not increase the biodegradability of the cardboard and could be recycled according to PPWR regulations.
The results of the F3 project were recently recognized by The New Wood project, launched in Finland in 2014 and involving 20 organizations from across the Finnish forestry industry, where the F3 fossil-free cellulose coating was awarded third place in the Uosip competition held in October 2025.
Plastic waste poses a major environmental problem and the F3 project has tackled this problem by providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative that meets the requirements of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWR). This innovative bio-based, biodegradable material has the potential to transform the packaging industry by reducing dependence on traditional fossil-based plastics.
Films for Future project partners:
Ahlstrom, Berndorf Band GmbH, CMPC Ventures SpA, Colombier Finland Oy, Domtar, DS Smith Paper Limited (GBCE), Fiber-x Finland Oy, Fortum Power and Heat Oy, General Mills Inc., Graphic Packaging International LLC, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Joutsen Paino Oy, Kemira Oyj, KLABIN SA, Leipa Group GmbH, LIST Technology AG, Mega Cellulose Oy, Metsä Board Oyj, MM Kotkamalls Boards Oy, Neenah Gessner GmbH, Nordic Bioproducts group Oy, Paroprint Oy, Philip Morris Products SA, Pixact Oy, Solenis LLC, Sulzer Pumps Finland Oy, Suominen Oyj, Suzano SA, Silvamo Corporation, Yangi AB, Unilever R&D, UPM-Kymmene Oyj & Valmet Technologies Oyj.
Disclaimer
The F3 – Films for Future program is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and participating companies. Grant Agreement No. A80423.
This article will also be published in the quarterly magazine issue 24.
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