Top 10 Companies in the Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Industry (2025): Market Leaders Driving Sustainable Packaging Solutions

In Business Insights
September 28, 2025


The global Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials market was valued at US$ 179.61 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach US$ 317.10 billion by 2029, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period (2023–2029). This growth is being driven by rising consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives, stringent environmental regulations, and the expanding adoption of sustainable packaging in food, beverage, and e-commerce sectors. The influence of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine War were considered while estimating market sizes.

As the packaging industry transforms toward eco-friendly operations and sustainable growth, the spotlight is on the key manufacturers who are driving innovation, efficiency, and greener material pathways. Environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional products are becoming increasingly accessible these days. As more products become available, consumers have greater choices when combining green living with modern lifestyles. Packaging materials touch every aspect of our lives, from food wrappers to shipping boxes, and their usage has surged, leading to increased waste generation. Non-recyclable waste often ends up in landfills, where it decomposes slowly or not at all. By turning to biodegradable and recyclable options like paper and cardboard, we can significantly aid the environment. These materials are reusable, recyclable, and naturally break down. Many companies now produce packaging with a high proportion of recycled paper, making sustainable choices readily available. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Industry—a mix of paper giants, sustainable innovators, and global suppliers shaping the future of eco-conscious packaging.


🔟 1. International Paper

Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Key Offering: Corrugated packaging, boxboard, and flexible paper solutions

International Paper stands as a global leader in sustainable paper packaging, producing a wide range of biodegradable products that serve industries from food to consumer goods. With operations in over 24 countries, the company focuses on fiber-based materials that reduce plastic dependency. Their commitment to circular economy principles ensures that products like corrugated boxes and folding cartons are designed for easy recycling and biodegradation, supporting clients in meeting regulatory standards while minimizing environmental impact.

Because of growing e-commerce demands, International Paper has ramped up production of lightweight, durable paper packaging that maintains strength without compromising on sustainability. Furthermore, their investments in forest stewardship help source responsibly managed wood fibers, making their offerings a preferred choice for brands aiming for net-zero goals.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • 100% of packaging designed for recyclability by 2025

  • Partnerships with retailers to promote paper over plastic in retail applications

  • Goal to reduce virgin fiber use by 20% through increased recycled content

Download FREE Sample Report: Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. Mondi Group

Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
Key Offering: Flexible paper packaging, corrugated solutions, and specialty boxboards

Mondi Group excels in innovative paper-based packaging that addresses the needs of food, hygiene, and retail sectors across Europe and beyond. Operating in more than 30 countries, they supply biodegradable alternatives that replace single-use plastics, such as paper bags and wrap films. Their emphasis on barrier-coated papers ensures product protection while maintaining full biodegradability, aligning with EU directives on packaging waste reduction.

However, the shift toward sustainable packaging isn’t without challenges, like balancing cost with performance. Mondi tackles this by developing high-performance, compostable materials that perform comparably to traditional options. This approach has earned them partnerships with major brands looking to enhance their green credentials.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Investment in renewable barrier technologies to eliminate fossil-based coatings

  • Collaboration with suppliers for closed-loop recycling programs

  • Target of 100% renewable or recycled materials by 2030


8️⃣ 3. Smurfit Kappa

Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
Key Offering: Corrugated board, paper sacks, and sustainable folding cartons

Smurfit Kappa is a prominent player in the European and global markets, specializing in corrugated and paper-based packaging that supports the transition from plastics. Their portfolio includes everything from heavy-duty shipping boxes to lightweight retail displays, all crafted from biodegradable fibers. With a strong presence in over 30 countries, they help businesses reduce carbon footprints through efficient, recyclable designs.

The company’s integrated approach to production, from pulp to finished product, allows for optimized resource use. Because regulations like the EU’s single-use plastic ban are tightening, Smurfit Kappa has positioned itself as a go-to supplier for compliant, eco-friendly solutions that don’t sacrifice functionality.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Bag the Ban initiative promoting paper alternatives to plastic bags

  • 20% reduction in CO2 emissions per ton of product by 2025

  • Expansion of e-commerce packaging with 100% recycled content


7️⃣ 4. Stora Enso

Headquarters: Helsinki, Finland
Key Offering: Renewable paper packaging, boxboard, and barrier materials

Stora Enso leads in bio-based materials, offering biodegradable paper solutions for food, beverage, and electronics packaging. As one of the world’s largest paper producers, they leverage renewable forestry resources to create products that decompose naturally. Their innovation in water-based barrier coatings has revolutionized flexible packaging, providing plastic-like performance without the environmental harm.

Furthermore, with the rise in online shopping, Stora Enso has developed robust corrugated solutions that minimize material use while maximizing protection. This not only cuts waste but also appeals to consumers who prioritize sustainability in their purchases.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • MOLIO paper-based barrier material as a plastic replacement

  • Commitment to zero waste to landfill in all mills

  • Goal to source 100% of wood from certified sustainable forests

Download FREE Sample Report: Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Market – View in Detailed Research Report


6️⃣ 5. Georgia-Pacific

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Key Offering: Corrugated sheets, folding cartons, and recycled paper packaging

Georgia-Pacific, a Koch Industries company, provides comprehensive paper packaging solutions focused on durability and sustainability. Their products, including corrugated boxes and containerboard, are widely used in food and consumer goods distribution. By incorporating high recycled content, they reduce the demand on virgin resources and promote a circular economy.

However, achieving biodegradability without losing strength requires ongoing R&D, which Georgia-Pacific invests in heavily. Their facilities across North America ensure consistent supply, supporting the growing e-commerce sector’s need for reliable, green packaging.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Increased use of recycled fiber to over 60% in core products

  • Partnerships for forest conservation and biodiversity

  • Development of compostable foodservice packaging


5️⃣ 6. WestRock

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Key Offering: Corrugated packaging, paperboard, and sustainable displays

WestRock is a powerhouse in fiber-based packaging, offering biodegradable options for retail, food, and industrial applications. Their integrated operations span from pulp mills to converting plants, enabling customized solutions like recyclable boxes and trays. With a focus on North American markets, they cater to the surging demand for plastic-free alternatives amid regulatory pressures.

The company’s approach emphasizes design for recyclability, ensuring products break down efficiently in natural environments. Because consumer awareness is rising, WestRock’s innovations help brands communicate their sustainability story effectively through packaging.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • 100% of paper-based products recyclable by design

  • Reduction in water usage by 25% through efficient processes

  • Investment in renewable energy for manufacturing


4️⃣ 7. DS Smith

Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Corrugated cases, plastic-free paper packaging, and e-commerce solutions

DS Smith specializes in innovative paper packaging that replaces plastics, serving over 35,000 customers worldwide. Their biodegradable products, such as mailer boxes and protective wraps, are tailored for the logistics and retail sectors. The company’s circular packaging model ensures materials are reused multiple times before safe decomposition.

Furthermore, as global trade expands, DS Smith’s lightweight designs reduce shipping emissions. This strategic focus positions them as a leader in sustainable supply chains, particularly in Europe where bans on single-use plastics are stringent.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Plastic Pact commitments to eliminate unnecessary plastics by 2025

  • 95% of packaging materials from recycled sources

  • R&D in bio-based adhesives for fully biodegradable seals

Download FREE Sample Report: Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Market – View in Detailed Research Report


3️⃣ 8. Hood Packaging Corporation

Headquarters: Madison, Mississippi, USA
Key Offering: Flexible paper packaging, bag solutions, and sustainable films

Hood Packaging provides versatile biodegradable paper products for food and consumer markets, emphasizing North American supply chains. Their range includes stand-up pouches and bakery bags made from compostable papers, helping brands transition from petroleum-based materials. With a focus on quality and customization, they ensure products meet food safety standards while being environmentally responsible.

However, the market’s evolution toward zero-waste requires adaptability, which Hood achieves through continuous innovation. Their efforts in sourcing FSC-certified papers reinforce their role in promoting responsible forestry.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Expansion of home-compostable paper packaging lines

  • Reduction of energy consumption in production by 15%

  • Collaborations with food industry for biodegradable wrappers


2️⃣ 9. Kruger Inc.

Headquarters: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Key Offering: Recycled paperboard, corrugated containers, and green packaging

Kruger Inc. is a key Canadian player, producing biodegradable paper materials for printing, packaging, and tissue products. Their use of 100% recycled fibers in many lines sets them apart, supporting applications in food and e-commerce. Operating across North America, they prioritize local sourcing to minimize transportation emissions.

Because regional regulations vary, Kruger’s adaptable production allows for compliant, sustainable solutions. This has built strong ties with North American retailers seeking to reduce plastic waste.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • All containerboard from 100% recycled content

  • Carbon-neutral manufacturing goals by 2030

  • Investment in biodegradable inks and coatings


1️⃣ 10. Biopac India Corporation

Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Key Offering: Eco-friendly paper bags, boxes, and custom biodegradable packaging

Biopac leads in the Asian market, offering affordable, high-volume biodegradable paper solutions for retail and food sectors. Their products, derived from agricultural waste and recycled paper, cater to emerging economies’ sustainability needs. With a focus on India and exports, they provide scalable options that decompose rapidly in natural conditions.

The company’s growth is fueled by government incentives for green manufacturing. However, scaling production while maintaining quality remains key, and Biopac’s local expertise gives them an edge in cost-effective innovations.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Use of bagasse and other agro-wastes for paper production

  • Partnerships with Indian retailers for plastic-free initiatives

  • Certification for compostability under global standards

Get Full Report Here: Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Is Greener and More Innovative

The biodegradable paper packaging materials market is undergoing a dynamic shift. While traditional plastics still hold significant share, the industry is investing heavily in paper-based alternatives, advanced manufacturing technologies, and recycling infrastructure. This report aims to provide a comprehensive presentation of the global market for Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials, with both quantitative and qualitative analysis, to help readers develop business/growth strategies, assess the market competitive situation, analyze their position in the current marketplace, and make informed business decisions. Key segments include types like corrugated board, flexible paper, and boxboard, which dominate due to their versatility. Applications span food packaging, beverage packaging, electronic packaging, and others, with food leading at over 40% market share.

Regionally, Europe holds the largest portion thanks to strict regulations, followed by North America and the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific, where urbanization drives demand. The latest trend gaining momentum is increasing product innovations, as vendors upgrade portfolios for specific applications. Retailers play a crucial role, actively promoting biodegradable options to consumers.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Rapid expansion in recycled content usage across EU, US, and Asia-Pacific regions

  • Regulatory mandates for minimum biodegradable material quotas by 2030

  • Digital tools for supply chain traceability and waste reduction

  • Brand-manufacturer alliances to accelerate plastic-to-paper transitions

Get Full Report Here: Biodegradable Paper Packaging Materials Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only packaging global goods—they’re spearheading the green revolution in sustainable materials. With market revenue projected from 2018-2032 and sales in K MT, the top five players already command significant shares. Challenges like raw material costs persist, but opportunities in emerging applications abound. As microbes rapidly degrade these papers, the path to a waste-free future looks promising. MARKET MONITOR GLOBAL, INC (MMG) has surveyed manufacturers, suppliers, and experts, highlighting drivers like adoption rates and obstacles such as supply chain disruptions. By focusing on segments like North America (United States, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Rest of APAC), the Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America, stakeholders can identify growth areas. Competitor analysis shows key revenues and sales shares, with players like those profiled leading the charge. This evolution ensures biodegradable paper packaging becomes the norm, reducing landfill burdens and fostering a healthier planet.

To delve deeper into market dynamics, including upstream pulp suppliers and downstream converters, the full report offers chapter-by-chapter insights: from definitions and overviews to regional sales, player profiles, capacity analysis, and policy impacts. With industrial chain breakdowns and conclusions, it’s a vital resource for informed decisions in this burgeoning sector.

Expanding on the segments, the global market by type shows corrugated board leading due to its strength in shipping, followed by flexible paper for wraps and boxboard for cartons. In applications, food packaging dominates because of hygiene needs, while electronics grows with anti-static paper innovations. These trends, combined with geopolitical considerations from recent events, underscore the resilience and potential of this market. As companies invest in R&D for enhanced properties—like moisture resistance without synthetics—the industry will continue to innovate, meeting consumer demands for transparency and ethics.

Moreover, the emphasis on quantitative data, such as global revenue from $179.61 billion in 2022 to $317.10 billion by 2029, paired with qualitative insights on mergers, acquisitions, and developments, paints a clear picture. For instance, recent collaborations between paper firms and tech companies are digitizing waste tracking, further boosting efficiency. In conclusion, the biodegradable paper packaging materials sector is poised for exponential growth, driven by environmental imperatives and market forces alike.