Developer and manufacturer of environmentally friendly advanced materials for industry Michelman, Cincinnati, Ohio, has announced that in its continuing effort to enable more sustainable packaging solutions for the circular economy, the company has expanded its network by joining the International Molded Fiber Association (IMFA). IMFA’s mission is to promote the global use of molded fiber products and advocate for environmental sustainability.

Rick Michelman, Michelman’s chief technology officer and EVP-Americas & Printing & Packaging, said the company wants to help transition the industry into more sustainable packaging. Its barrier coatings help improve fiber-based packaging’s functionality and performance while managing its end-of-life.

The company has been opening new markets for paper and film packaging ever since creating its first repulpable water-based coating more than 50 years ago. Its current barrier and functional coatings for paper and film make it possible to develop recyclable, repulpable and industrially compostable packaging.

Michelman also said that because IMFA’s members include manufacturers of molded fiber products, industry suppliers and service providers, Michelman has surrounded itself with like-minded organizations that will help accelerate the pace of product innovations for molded fiber applications.

Like molded fiber, Michelman’s water-based coatings offer opportunities to increase sustainable practices, reduce waste and deliver product performance using fewer raw materials, with repulpable, recyclable, compostable and renewably-sourced options.

For more information, visit www.Michelman.com.