Cabling specialist focuses on sustainability

 

Augsburg, September 27, 2022 – Rosenberger Optical Solutions & Infrastructure (Rosenberger OSI), an expert in fiber optic connections, cabling solutions and infrastructure services, announces that its in-house plastic packaging for patch cords will be switched to bio-based and biodegradable polymers in the coming year. The origin of this was an innovation project in which the company addressed the issue of sustainable and ecologically sound packaging. The aim of this initiative was to replace the plastic films currently in use with an environmentally friendly and resource-saving alternative.

“The introduction of biopolymer packaging on an industrial scale represents added value not only for us as a company. The importance of environmentally friendly solutions is also reported back by our customers. In view of the current discussion on sustainability, especially in the data center sector, we are pleased to be able to make a contribution,” says Dr. Benjamin Weigand, Innovation Manager at Rosenberger OSI.

Cooperation with Fraunhofer IAP
The new packaging was selected and prototyped in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP), technical center Schwarzheide. In the field of novel packaging solutions, a bio-based and biodegradable plastic was identified as an alternative to the petroleum-based counterpart previously used. In terms of its appearance, stability and feel, the novel bioplastic is absolutely comparable to the packaging used to date and is virtually indistinguishable. Compared to solutions made of paper, the innovative plastics have two major advantages. On the one hand, the biopolymers have the added value of better protecting the sensitive fiber optic connectors from contamination and of being more lightweight and resistant. On the other hand, plastic packaging can be produced more efficiently. Studies show, that it takes around four times more energy to produce an equivalent paper bag. When selecting the material, great importance was attached to ensuring that the proportion of renewable raw materials was significantly high.

No microplastics and disposal via recycling bins
Furthermore, Profectus Films GmbH was selected as a supplier for the purchase of the packaging foils, which obtains the basic materials from certified, sustainable sources in Central Europe. The packaging used by Rosenberger OSI in the future is biodegradable according to the European standard EN 13432 and excludes the formation of microplastics. The disposal of the biodegradable film can be carried out conventionally via the recycling garbage can (“yellow garbage can”).

Efficient packaging reduces waste
In addition to the use of the novel packaging material made from renewable raw materials, the range in terms of sustainability is being expanded even further. Rosenberger OSI will also focus on efficient packaging in the future with the long-term goal of saving material and reducing garbage heaps. Planned activities, which are to be implemented gradually over the course of the coming year, include:

  • Use of an innovative packaging machine that recognizes different product formats and adjusts the amount of foil accordingly.
  • Material savings of 40% by optimizing the thickness of the biopolymer foil packaging
  • Direct printing on the biopolymer packaging, which largely eliminates the need for adhesive labels
  • Digital provision of measurement protocols and installation instructions for patch cables

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Download press release: 2209_Rosenberger_OSI_Eco_Package_EN_final

Download images: Rosenberger_OSI_Bio_Packaging_Pictures.zip

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About Rosenberger OSI:
Since 1991, Rosenberger Optical Solutions & Infrastructure (Rosenberger OSI) has been a recognized expert for fiber-based connectivity, cabling solutions and infrastructure services in the areas of data centers, local area networks, mobile networks and industrial applications. As an integrated solution provider, we have high expertise in the development and operational excellence in the production of system solutions for communication networks. Our comprehensive services enable the secure and efficient operation of digital infrastructures. This combination, combined with our strong customer focus, makes us unique and a strong partner in the global market. Rosenberger OSI employs around 780 people in Europe and North America and has been part of the globally operating Rosenberger Group since 1998. The Rosenberger Group is a leading global provider of high-frequency, high-voltage and fiber optic connectivity solutions with headquarters in Germany. Further information is available at: www.rosenberger.com/osi

Media Contact:

ROSENBERGER OSI
Miriam Miller
Tel.: +49 (821) 24924-928
miriam.miller@rosenberger.com

PROFIL MARKETING OHG
Martin Farjah
Public Relations
Humboldtstr. 21
D-38106 Braunschweig
Tel.: +49-531-387 33 – 22
Fax: +49-531-387 33 – 44
m.farjah@profil-marketing.com