Black remains a popular colour in packaging and product design. It conveys quality, contrast and strong brand identity. However, traditional black plastics present a major challenge for recycling. Most carbon black pigments cannot be detected by near-infrared (NIR) sorting systems. As a result, black packaging often ends up outside recycling streams.

UPM Biochemicals introduces UPM Circular Renewable Black as an alternative. This biobased black pigment aims to combine visual quality with recyclability and verified climate performance. For packaging and product designers, it offers a way to use black without undermining circular design goals.

From Fossil-Based Pigments to Lignin-Based Colour

Instead of fossil carbon, UPM Circular Renewable Black uses lignin as its raw material. Lignin is a natural polymer found in wood and is widely available as a by-product of the pulp industry. By using lignin from responsibly managed European beech forests, the pigment replaces conventional carbon black with a renewable source.

Importantly, the pigment maintains the familiar deep black appearance. It also behaves like conventional pigments during processing. Therefore, manufacturers can integrate it into existing production lines without changes to tooling or handling.

The wood feedstock comes from FSC and PEFC-certified forests, while production takes place in Germany. This supports regional sourcing and helps reduce reliance on fossil-based imports.

Enabling the Recycling of Black Plastics

One of the main advantages lies in NIR detectability. Conventional black plastics absorb infrared light, which prevents automated sorting. In contrast, UPM Circular Renewable Black remains visible to NIR scanners.

As a result, recycling facilities can correctly identify and sort black plastic packaging. This improves recycling rates and keeps black products within established material loops. For designers, this removes a long-standing conflict between colour choice and recyclability.

Verified Environmental and Climate Performance

UPM supports its sustainability claims with third-party verification. A life cycle assessment was carried out according to ISO 14040 and 14044 standards. DEKRA independently reviewed the study.

The results show a cradle-to-gate carbon-negative footprint when biogenic carbon storage is taken into account. In other words, the material stores more carbon than it emits during production.

Moreover, the pigment can serve as a functional filler in thermoplastic compounds. At higher loadings, it may help reduce material weight and overall carbon footprint. Tests also confirm good thermal stability during recycling, which supports repeated material cycles.

Design Relevance for Packaging and Products

For packaging and product designers, UPM Circular Renewable Black demonstrates how colour pigments can support circular design strategies. It combines renewable sourcing, recycling compatibility and premium aesthetics in a single material solution.

As sustainability requirements continue to shape material choices, such innovations help designers meet both visual and environmental expectations without compromise.

Source & photo: UPM Biochemicals