Using paper as an alternative to plastic stretch film for pallet wrapping presents several significant challenges. Firstly, paper requires substantially higher material usage, often ranging from 5 to 10 times more compared to plastic stretch film. This increased material requirement directly impacts the cost, making paper a more expensive option for large-scale use.
In terms of performance, paper has lower impact and water resistance. This means that wrapped goods are more susceptible to damage during transportation, especially in varying weather conditions. Additionally, paper is not as effective in securing uneven loads, leading to potential instability and higher risk of product damage.
The application speed of paper wrapping is also slower compared to plastic stretch film. This can lead to inefficiencies in the wrapping process, further increasing labour costs and reducing overall productivity.
While paper is a renewable resource and can be recyclable, these environmental benefits are often offset by the increased material usage and the need for additional treatments, such as water-resistant coatings. These treatments can complicate the recycling process and diminish the environmental advantages of using paper.
In tropical and coastal countries, the challenges of using paper packaging are even more pronounced. The high humidity and frequent rainfall make paper packaging impractical, as it becomes vulnerable to moisture damage. Without water-resistant coatings, paper packaging can quickly become ineffective, resulting in wasted material and compromised load security.
Given these challenges, paper may not be a feasible solution for large-scale pallet wrapping. Instead, optimizing the use of plastic stretch film or exploring other sustainable materials could provide better solutions. Innovations in biodegradable or recyclable plastic alternatives, as well as improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of plastic use, may offer more practical and environmentally friendly options for pallet wrapping.
