Natralock Makes Neat Package of Sustainability, Security

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In step with the buzz about sustainability within the electronics industry at the 2011 International CES show in Las Vegas, MeadWestvaco Corp. used this platform to launch its Natralock tear-resistant paperboard-security carton.

The security device is an expansion of the packaging solutions that use MWV’s proprietary Natralock technology. The recyclable paperboard is made from responsibly-sourced fiber carton and offers an alternative to costly and distracting security devices such as spider wraps or locked cases.

The company refers to data from the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention that “retail shrinkage” – aka, stealing – costs more $120 billion globally, but locking up products can also reduce sales. Its security carton allows shopper access to products on the shelf, ultimately improving the brand experience. The security carton also can be custom-designed, and provides 360 degrees of printable space for brand owners to reach potential buyers.

Taking into account Natralock’s security and sustainability offerings, Cobra Electronics made MWV its sustainable packaging partner. Cobra will switch from a plastic clamshell design Natralock packaging for its line of GMRS/FRS two-way radio and a new PhoneLynx product. The customized packaging uses 50 to 60 percent less plastic than traditional clamshell packaging and reduces Cobra’s overall packaging footprint by an average of 10 percent, according to the news release.

The MWV Natralock clamshell packaging alternative was detailed in the 2010 CEA Sustainability Report, a collection of the electronics industry's best practices. The product was third-party tested by Environmental Packaging International and found to use 70 percent less plastic; reduce total packaging weight by 22 percent; consume 55 percent less energy (BTU) in manufacturing material; and produce 22 percent less greenhouse gas emissions during packaging production.

Environment + Energy Leader