How Dunapack and Apex Cut CO₂ Emissions with GTT 2.0

Across the packaging and printing industry, one trend is crystal clear: sustainable printing is no longer optional, it’s a requirement. More brand owners are demanding eco-friendly packaging solutions that balance cost, quality, and environmental responsibility.

As Marcus Graßler of Dunapack Packaging Straßwalchen explained: “The demand for sustainably printed packaging is becoming increasingly important, with brand owners choosing suppliers who focus on eco-friendly solutions while balancing production costs.”

Why Sustainable Printing Matters for Packaging

Consumers and brand owners alike are driving a shift toward sustainable packaging printing. Reducing waste, cutting CO₂ emissions, and improving
efficiency are now top priorities for companies that want to stay competitive.

This is why Dunapack Packaging partnered with Apex International to test how innovative anilox technology can deliver measurable environmental impact.

Cutting CO₂ with GTT 2.0 Anilox Technology

The joint project at Dunapack’s Straßwalchen facility in Salzburg set out with a clear goal: measure how much CO₂ reduction could be achieved using Apex’s GTT 2.0 anilox technology.

The results were impressive:

• 18% average reduction in ink usage
• Significant drop in the carbon footprint of packaging production
• Consistent high-quality print performance

By using less ink, printers save resources while lowering CO₂ emissions per kilogram of ink consumed.

How GTT 2.0 Works: Smarter Ink Laydown, Better Results

Unlike traditional anilox rolls, Apex’s GTT 2.0 anilox roller uses a patented “slalom” engraving pattern. This unique design ensures:

• Smoother ink laydown for consistent coverage
• Less ink and varnish required for vibrant print results
• Improved efficiency with reduced waste

“Simply put, we can achieve the same high-quality print while creating around 18% less CO₂ pollution related to ink consumption,” said Stefan Schneider, Key Account Manager Corrugated at Apex.

Proven Printing Results on Press

Christian Rieger, Print Expert at Dunapack, highlighted a key success factor: “One of the keys to this project was achieving the same high-quality print while using less ink.”

Peter Kern, Head of Converting at Straßwalchen, added: “We first ran the job with our conventional anilox, and then again with the Apex GTT 2.0. Across runs of 5,000 to 20,000 sheets, we measured ink consumption and CO₂ emissions. The results were clear: less ink, same print quality.”

Even challenging applications such as printing white on brown corrugated packaging delivered better results with GTT 2.0.

Long-Term Benefits: Lower Costs and Higher Sustainability

The impact of GTT 2.0 anilox technology goes beyond ink savings. Dunapack reported:

• 15–25% shorter drying times, lowering energy usage
• Fewer press stops and smoother production
• Improved Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Reduced maintenance and downtime

Dunapack’s ESG specialist confirmed that widespread adoption could cut 40–70 tons of CO₂ per site, per year. With 18 sites across Europe, the impact at scale is transformative.

Building a Sustainable Future in Printing

For Dunapack, sustainability is a responsibility, not just a corporate slogan.

“Corporations have a duty to push society toward sustainable development,” said Rieger.

At Apex, the commitment is just as strong. Stefan Schneider concluded: “We’re thrilled with the results and grateful to Dunapack for their dedication. Together, we’re proving that sustainability and print quality can go hand in hand.”

Learn More About Eco-Friendly Printing with Apex

At Apex International, we’re proud to lead the way in sustainable printing technology with our innovative GTT 2.0 anilox rollers.

👉 Explore how Apex International’s GTT 2.0 technology can help your business cut CO₂ and boost efficiency.
👉 Learn more about Dunapack Packaging and their commitment to sustainability.