Apr 16, 2026
Focus on circular paper packaging: CPTS competence cluster meets for the fourth time
On April 16, scientists from the PTS - Institute for Fibers & Paper gGmbH, the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV and the Chair of Processing Machines/ Processing Technology and Wood-Based Bioeconomy at the TUD Dresden University of Technology met for the fourth meeting of the CPTS competence cluster.
The exchange focused on circular paper-based packaging solutions and current research issues along the entire value chain.
The event is part of the activities of Circular Packaging Technologies & Systems (CPTS), which pools expertise from research and development in order to advance sustainable packaging systems and bring them together in an impulse lab at TU Dresden.
Further information on the CPTS
Impulses for current developments
An introduction to current developments in the CPTS was followed by two keynote speeches addressing key future topics in the paper and packaging industry.
- Dr. Antje Harling (PTS) shed light on the significance and opportunities of the European packaging regulation PPWR for the paper-based value chain.
- Lena Maria Bracken (VAT) then presented key findings from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's study "Paper as one part of the solution to flexible packaging pollution".
Lively exchange on circular packaging solutions
Key issues were discussed in depth in three working groups:
- Challenges for circular packaging systems
- Potential of paper-based materials
- Prospects for joint research approaches
The intensive exchange continued at the joint business lunch.
Together towards the Impuls-Lab at TU Dresden
In a concluding discussion round, concrete next steps for the establishment of a planned Impulse Lab at TU Dresden were agreed. The project is closely embedded in the activities of the CPTS and is intended to further strengthen cooperation between the research institutions.
Insights into research on site
The event concluded with a guided tour of the technical center of the Chair of Wood Technology and Wood-Based Bioeconomy in Pirna. The participants were given practical insights into current research work, test facilities and technological developments in the field of wood-based materials and processes.
Networking as the key to success
In addition to the technical topics, personal exchange also played a central role: a joint meeting the evening before offered the opportunity to network and deepen existing collaborations.
The event underlines the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for the transformation of the paper and packaging industry towards a sustainable and circular bioeconomy.