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ACTEGA and Living Ink Launch First Carbon-Negative UV Flexo Ink for Mainstream Packaging

ACTEGA and Living Ink Technologies have launched ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink, the first commercially available UV flexographic ink formulated with carbon-negative algae-based pigment. Developed in collaboration with Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages and produced for commercial use by NextGen Label Group, the innovation represents a breakthrough in combining sustainability with industrial print performance.

The new ink integrates Living Ink’s Algae Black pigment, derived from algae biomass, with ACTEGA’s UV-curable ink technology to deliver a formulation that meets the rigorous demands of flexographic printing. Verified through life cycle assessment, the pigment carries a negative carbon footprint, offering a measurable reduction in emissions compared to traditional petroleum-based carbon black inks. The product has already been deployed at scale, replacing all black ink in Waiākea’s label production.

The launch highlights a broader shift in the packaging industry, where sustainability is moving from concept to implementation. With availability now open for trials and commercial use in North America and Europe, this innovation gives converters and brands a clear path to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing print quality or productivity. Further development of additional bio-based colors is underway, signaling continued momentum in sustainable ink technologies for packaging applications.

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