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Biodegradable foam protects electronics shipments

Cornstarch-based protective packaging provides sustainable option for global shipping of electronics product.

The biodegradable foam that braces the recording unit delivers the anti-static, shock, and vibration protection.
The biodegradable foam that braces the recording unit delivers the anti-static, shock, and vibration protection.

Echo360, a provider of blended learning and lecture-capture solutions for the higher education market, recently launched the EchoSystem SafeCapture HD recording unit, a product designed to extend the boundaries of higher-education learning by digitally capturing, managing, and publishing classroom content in audio, video, and multimedia formats. Students can access recorded course content from their computers, iPads, and mobile devices at any time and from anywhere.

The high-performance capabilities of the EchoSystem called for equally high-performance packaging that could deliver protection, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

Echo360 turned to Plexus, a global company based in Neenah, WI, with expertise in the electronics manufacturing services industry to manufacture the product, as well as specify packaging for the unit. Plexus enlisted the expertise of packaging partner Great Northern Corp. to design and manufacture a package for shipping the EchoSystem. Located in nearby Appleton, WI, Great Northern had worked successfully with Plexus on other projects, using its background in designing, manufacturing, and distributing packaging solutions and point-of-sale display programs for industrial, commercial, and retail products.

“Plexus presented us with the challenge and opportunity to develop packaging that would not only protect the sensitive digital equipment but also do so in a cost-effective manner and with a positive environmental footprint,” says Great Northern Custom Packaging sales manager Dan Stubing.

Great Northern’s solution: A custom package that combines the recyclability of Green Cell Foam® cornstarch-based protective packaging from KTM Industries, with the strength and sustainability of heavy-duty corrugate that is both recycled and recyclable. The end result is a packaging option that meets the biodegradability standards of ASTM D 6400-04, and delivers the anti-static, shock, and vibration protection required by the product.

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