"betubed" – Sustainable Packaging Ideas from Hamburg

Paper Recycling – As Old as the Pyramids

Recycling is not an invention of modern times. For thousands of years, humans have been trying to use resources as sustainably as possible. Metals and glass could already be reshaped in ancient times through relatively simple processes like melting. The reuse of paper also has a long tradition. However, paper recycling as we know it today has only been possible since the 18th century.

Paper recycling is essentially as old as the Egyptian pyramids. Over 4000 years ago, there was likely already a thriving market for used "writing material" in the land of the pharaohs. Papyrus, made from plant fibers, was reused as part of funeral masks and other decorative burial items. Similar to papier-mâché, it could be turned into a moldable mass that could be painted and decorated after drying.

Deinking – Removing Printer Ink as the Key to Paper Recycling

Strengthening book covers and spines by adding recycled paper has long been common in the bookbinding trade. Since 1774, thanks to Justus Claproth, there has been a proper process for recycling printed paper: in the paper mill of Johann Engelhardt Schmidt, he discovered the effectiveness of fuller's earth, turpentine oil, and lime in decolorizing printed papers; the so-called "deinking" made it possible to completely separate the printer ink from the paper, thus optimally preparing it for recycling – through the decolorization process, it could be reused for printing.

The lawyer researched, so to speak, "in his own interest." In his profession, there was naturally a high demand for paper. As a manufacturing judge, he also had access to the working techniques of various crafts. What could be more obvious than to search for a way to conserve the scarce resources of rags, the main component of paper at the time.

That his groundbreaking process technology was not implemented was due to the comparatively high production effort. It was not until the 1950s that people remembered Justus Claproth's treatise "An Invention to Make New Paper from Printed Paper and Completely Wash Out the Printer Ink" – his role as the inventor of paper recycling is undisputed today.

Recycled Paper – The Material of Packaging Dreams

For us, paper recycling is part of everyday life; recycled paper is one of the most important "secondary raw materials" of today. From writing paper to cardboard and even hygiene products, paper products are now available in sustainable versions. Their slightly dusty image in gray and green is gradually being replaced by innovative designs; color, chic, and functionality are hardly in conflict with sustainable production anymore.

In the packaging sector, an attractively designed and environmentally friendly wrapper scores points, especially in combination with multifunctional uses. The young start-up "betubed" picks up on the idea of the tubular cardboard box as packaging for everything that fits into such "tubes" and equips them with a highly functional interior. Optional, for example, are custom-made inserts for sensitive goods. These can be food-safe, airtight, or oil-resistant.

Through various closure options, the tubes come in one-, two-, or three-part versions. Various types of print finishing make them visually unique – the design for the decorative tube is provided by the customer in the form of a print template. For DIY fans, the innovative cardboard tubes made from 100% recycled or FSC-certified paper are, of course, available unprinted!

"betubed" Instead of "becubed" – Sustainable Packaging Ideas at Their Best

The "betubed packaging GmbH" has been producing its "handcrafted paper tubes" since 2019. Stefan Thiel and Demekssa Duresso realized their vision of a fresh and sustainable packaging idea with the round alternative to the square standard version. Meanwhile, the two "TubeBoys" have grown into a full-fledged team. In their pop-up store in Hamburg, their range can be seen "live." Those who prefer the virtual way to the shop will find it at www.betubed.de.