Japan researchers testing paper-and-plastic wine bottle as greener alternative to glass
KOFU -- The Institute of Enology and Viticulture at the University of Yamanashi and its partners are testing a paper-and-plastic wine bottle as an env
In Kofu, Japan, researchers at the University of Yamanashi are testing a paper-and-plastic wine bottle as a greener alternative to traditional glass bottles. The lightweight container, dubbed the "efbottle," is designed to be easy to sort for disposal, potentially reducing the environmental impact of wine transportation. Developed by Fuji Tokushu Shigyo Co. and other companies, the efbottle features a water-resistant paper body and a plastic pouch with a resealable cap for long-term storage.
Sensory tests have shown that the bottle does not alter wine quality compared to glass. Professor Shunji Suzuki, director of the institute, notes that a standard 750-milliliter wine bottle weighs about 1.14 kilograms, whereas the efbottle weighs approximately 0.78 kilograms, making it more than 30% lighter. This reduction in weight could help lower carbon dioxide emissions associated with wine distribution.
The lightweight nature of the efbottle also makes it well-suited for outdoor activities. The bottle's entire surface can be printed on, offering new design possibilities. The University of Yamanashi's "Shin University of Yamanashi Wine Project," launched in 2024, aims to propose sustainable winemaking practices for the next 100 years, encompassing various aspects of winemaking and bottling.
Researchers plan to conduct further testing over about a year to ensure the efbottle's long-term viability. Suzuki hopes the efbottle will contribute to environmental sustainability and support Yamanashi's wine culture through scientific innovation.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
