In an era of increasing pressure on brands to eliminate unnecessary plastic waste, RDM Group, a leading producer of recycled cartonboard, is proud to introduce for the first time as an RDM product, Multiboard® Barrier – a polyethylene (PE)-coated cartonboard engineered to meet performance demands while addressing environmental challenges.
“At RDM Group, we believe that rethinking plastic for today’s world doesn’t mean eliminating it, but using it in a smarter more circular way,” said Krzysztof Krajewski, RDM Group’s chief innovation and sustainability officer. “Multiboard® Barrier is a solution that integrates minimal plastic use into a fibre-based board structure, optimising both functionality and recyclability.”
Engineered for performance, designed for recycling
Multiboard® Barrier is a PE-coated cartonboard made from 100% recycled fibres, manufactured by RDM Group. The product is designed for high-performance applications where moisture or grease sensitivity makes pure fibre packaging insufficient, including frozen foods, powdered goods such as household detergents, and pet food.
While the board itself is derived from 100% recycled fibres, the plastic component makes up just 3–5% of the overall structure, depending on grammage, adding essential functionality, including excellent Water Vapour Transmission Rate (WVTR) and Oil and Grease Resistance (OGR). The PE layer serves as a heat-sealable glue, eliminating the need for additional adhesives or complex laminates that complicate recyclability. Importantly, Multiboard® Barrier is recyclable in line with the latest industry standards and methodologies.
PPWR-ready and future-proof
As regulations tighten across Europe and beyond, Multiboard® Barrier is directionally aligned with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Its reduced plastic fraction, low carbon profile and certified recyclability make it a compelling choice for brands looking to future-proof their packaging.
Closing the loop
RDM Group is unique in its closed-loop approach: as both a producer and recycler of in-house PE-coated cartonboard, it maintains oversight of the product’s entire lifecycle. This integrated approach both boosts efficiency and helps to strengthen sustainability outcomes. In 2024, the company reported that nearly 90% of pulper rejects (where plastic is a dominant component) were recovered – marking significant progress towards the company’s long-term sustainability goal.
“We’re proving that even plastic-coated packaging can have a circular future,” added Krajewski. “Multiboard® Barrier goes beyond ticking regulatory boxes. It’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible now, while we develop the next generation of sustainable materials.”
