The need for performance meeting environmental requirements increased around 2018. I believe it was triggered by the fact that from January of that year we could no longer export resource waste to China, and that the issue of marine plastic waste became one of the main agenda items at the G20 Osaka Summit in 2019.

In response to this trend, brand owners and manufacturers began launching environmental initiatives in late 2019. At the time, the market was using various forms of plastic film-based labelstocks, and we felt a sense of urgency because our materials would no longer be used if this situation continued.

We were quick to respond, once we caught on to what was going on in the world. Research and development teams were immediately assembled, and Lintec's deplasticization efforts began. I think it was that speed that enabled us to launch the plastic-alternative labelstocks series before we received orders from our customers.

Lintec had a strong weapon for achieving deplasticization of products. That is the washing-resistant paper we used for cleaning tags. Development began with the prospect of applying the manufacturing technology for that paper to create labels with durability and water resistance.

However, even though the base technology of washing-resistant paper was available, whether it could be used immediately as a labelstock was another matter. In fact, it was quite a challenge.

The company also acquired Biomass Mark certification from the Japan Organics Recycling Association for the adhesive layer of the final labelstock. We were able to launch plastic-alternative labelstocks, unique labels with environmentally friendly facestock, adhesive, and release liner, in about six months after the start of development.

Their efforts paid off, and customers responded favorably. We have had many people tell us, "This is the kind of labelstock we have been waiting for." There are other paper-based labels with excellent water resistance, but it is rare to find a product with superior printability as well.

Thickness can be varied, and cellophane can be layered to enhance the design potential. It is also possible to utilize the texture of paper to convey to consumers that it is actually paper. The wide range of variations will allow us to meet the needs of a variety of customers.