Plastics, ubiquitous in our daily lives, have long been valued for their versatility and durability. However, the environmental impact of fossil-based plastics has spurred a global quest for sustainable alternatives. UPM Formi EcoAce, biocomposite that emerges as a renewable solution addressing the demand for alternative materials.
UPM Formi EcoAce is crafted from a renewable biopolymer, derived from UPM BioVerno naphtha, coupled with wood or cellulose fibers. This innovative biocomposite is distinguished by its ISCC PLUS chain of custody certification, employing a mass balance principle. Materials used in its production originate from certified forests, utilizing side streams and residues from wood and pulp processing, ensuring no additional harvesting, and avoiding competition with food production.
Illustrating the practical application of UPM Formi EcoAce, Stala Oy, chose this biocomposite for their new ONE colander. Seeking a superior material with a modern aesthetic, Stala Oy's design team found the perfect match in UPM Formi EcoAce. Collaborating with UPM's technical team and a Finnish injection molder, they successfully addressed design challenges and achieved excellent moldability.
Stala Oy is a Lahti-based kitchen design manufacturer, currently operating globally and offering various applications, such as kitchen sinks, stainless steel worktops and backsplashes, kitchen accessories, mailboxes and waste sorting systems. The company has a history of more than 50 years of Finnish design and skilled processing of stainless steel.
Jari Peltonen, Design Manager at Stala Oy, emphasizes the positive aspects of UPM Formi EcoAce. Beyond sustainability, the material excels in durability, moisture resistance, heat resistance, and chemical resistance—critical qualities in kitchen applications. The natural wood-like appearance and feel further enhance the material's appeal, especially in the context of home kitchenware.
UPM Formi EcoAce stands at the forefront of sustainable material innovation, offering a renewable alternative to fossil-based plastics. Its composition, manufacturing versatility, and natural aesthetics make it an ideal choice for companies committed to environmentally conscious practices. Stala Oy's successful integration of UPM Formi EcoAce into their ONE colander exemplifies the material's adaptability and positive impact on product design and sustainability.
As global awareness of environmental issues continues to rise, UPM Formi EcoAce paves the way for a greener future in the wood and plastics industry.