Mondi, a renowned global leader in sustainable packaging and paper solutions, has joined forces with Cotesi, a leading producer of twine, nets, and ropes for the agricultural sector, to revolutionize crop cultivation practices. Together, they are replacing traditional plastic mulch films with an eco-friendly paper alternative known as Advantage Kraft Mulch.

Conventional mulching films play a vital role in shielding crops from various threats such as birds, weeds, soil erosion, excessive sunlight, and heavy rainfall. Typically, these films are manufactured from plastic, laid out during planting, and subsequently discarded after harvest. However, Mondi's Advantage Kraft Mulch offers a sustainable alternative. This innovative solution is crafted from 100% responsibly sourced kraft paper, derived from sustainable wood sources, free from any plastic or coatings. Advantage Kraft Mulch is industrially compostable, certified in accordance with DIN EN 13432 standards, and delivers a level of protection on par with plastic mulch films.

Promising field trials are currently underway, demonstrating the resilience of kraft paper in inhibiting weed growth. It is expected that the paper will naturally decompose once the harvesting season concludes, leaving no visible remnants. Advantage Kraft Mulch not only adds organic matter to the soil but also eliminates the need for disposal or recycling, streamlining processes and reducing both waste and costs. Unlike traditional plastic mulch, it poses no risk of introducing microplastics into the soil.

This paper solution proves versatile, suitable for greenhouse applications as well as outdoor agriculture. It can be easily secured to the ground using wooden clips, with the option to create slits or holes to facilitate healthy plant growth.

Lasse Berglund, Business Development Manager Kraft Paper at Mondi, expressed the significance of Advantage Kraft Mulch, stating, "Advantage Kraft Mulch eliminates unnecessary plastic in agriculture and farming and benefits the environment as the product adds organic matter to the soil and requires no infrastructure for disposal or recycling. It has been a pleasure to work with Cotesi in the development and application of this product, which is groundbreaking for the global agriculture industry."

Source:mondigroup.com

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