Mondi and Partners Innovate Lightweight, Sustainable Banana Box for Global Market

Mondi led a collaborative project to redesign the banana box, a staple in global fruit logistics, focusing on making it lighter and more sustainable without sacrificing strength. The initiative involved technical experts, trading partner Europcell, Ecuadorian exporter Incarpalm, and a major European importer. They developed a new box combining ProVantage SmartKraft Brown for durability and ProVantage Frescoflute to enhance structural firmness. The resulting box uses about 40% recycled fiber and is 10% lighter, reducing shipping emissions while maintaining protection. A 33-day shipping trial from Ecuador to Europe under extreme humidity showed the box maintained integrity without damage. This innovation aligns with upcoming regulations banning plastic wrap in banana boxes from 2026, promoting the shift to fibre-based solutions. The project highlights the power of cross-continental cooperation and innovative thinking to drive sustainable packaging evolution.​