Hubergroup launches NC calculation service at Labelexpo
Hubergroup unveiled its groundbreaking NC Calculation Service at Labelexpo Europe. This new service aims to support customers in navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the packaging industry, particularly with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) mandating all packaging to be recyclable by 2030.
08 Sep 2025 | 60 Views | By Noel D'Cunha
The EU PPWR and current Design for Recycling (D4R) definitions impose stringent limits on the non-compostable (NC) content in flexible packaging. This presents a significant challenge for converters and printers, who must deliver high-performance packaging while adhering to evolving compliance requirements.
Hubergroup's NC Calculation Service directly addresses this challenge. Unlike traditional estimations or time-consuming manual analyses, the service utilises a sophisticated NC calculator to provide fast and reliable results on the NC content in a printed packaging construction. This takes into account the specific design and Hubergroup's ink formulations.
Dr Lars Hancke, the manager of business development, flexible packaging at Hubergroup Deutschland, emphasises the service's value: "With our self-developed NC calculator, customers quickly receive reliable results on the NC content of their packaging prints, allowing them to make informed decisions. This new service, therefore, enhances and streamlines their product development process.”
The NC calculator is specifically tailored to Hubergroup’s Gecko portfolio, a versatile and performance-driven ink and varnish system for flexible packaging. For NC-based printing within the regulatory thresholds, Hubergroup recommends combining NC-free Whites with NC-based colours to achieve an optimal balance between performance and recyclability.
Enno Lingemann, technical product manager Gecko at Hubergroup Deutschland, adds, "With Gecko’s flexible structure and our dedicated support, we empower our customers to confidently meet regulatory challenges while achieving outstanding print quality, speed, and design versatility."
Hubergroup recognises that a single solution to sustainable packaging is not sufficient. Therefore, the Gecko system supports three complementary paths: NC-based printing within the limits. Featuring NC-free Whites and transparent management via the NC calculation service. NC-based printing combined with de-inking primer: Enabling easy ink removal for enhanced recyclability. PU-based printing with the Gecko Platinum series: A chlorine- and NC-free solution, fully recyclable and suited for demanding applications.
As per Hubergroup, regardless of whether films, aluminium, or carton board are used, the Gecko system and the new NC calculation service provide printers with the necessary tools to confidently meet current demands and future obligations.
Visitors to Labelexpo can discover more about Gecko and the NC calculation service at the Hubergroup stand 4D19.