News Archive

Flexcon celebrates 70 years of materials innovation and global growth

Posted on: 24 March 2026 Flexcon, provider of pressure sensitive films, adhesives, and functional materials, is commemorating seven decades of engineering excellence, market shaping innovation, and customer focused collaboration.

The adhesive of great memories: Honouring Dr. Axel Hessland

Posted on: 23 March 2026 Following Dr. Axel Hessland’s retirement on 1 March 2026, Afera takes a moment to recognise a long-standing contributor whose technical expertise, regulatory insight and collegial spirit have left a lasting mark on the Association.

From insight to action: How Afera refreshed its strategy with Members, for Members

Posted on: 23 March 2026 A Member-driven strategy update is now shaping Afera’s priorities, activities and results across the European adhesive tape industry.

Afera tracks key regulatory files shaping the tape value chain

Posted on: 20 March 2026 A wide range of EU policy developments is set to influence materials, compliance and supply chains across the sector, with detailed guidance available to Members.

What does a new Netflix film say about the potential impacts of plastic exposure?

Posted on: 20 March 2026 A new Netflix documentary, The Plastic Detox, explores a potential link between infertility and exposure to chemical additives in plastics – but is it a fair representation of the packaging industry? Packaging Europe watched the documentary to explore its claims, and consults the reactions of industry voices to understand its reception.

PPWR task force keeps Afera engaged on key implementation issues

Posted on: 19 March 2026 February meeting reviewed packaging scope, recyclability, operator obligations and advocacy shaping compliance for Europe’s adhesive-tape chain

Science explains why removing adhesive tape makes that unbearable squeaky noise

Posted on: 19 March 2026 Researchers have learned that the piercing noise produced when adhesive tape is peeled comes from tiny shock waves generated as fast cracks race through the glue and strike the tape’s edge. That discovery overturns the long-standing belief that the familiar screech comes mainly from friction during peeling.

China’s Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law: What companies need to know

Posted on: 19 March 2026 China’s Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law was officially ¬adopted on December 27, 2025, following its third review at the 19th Session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress. The law will come into effect on 1 May 2026, marking a major shift in how hazardous chemicals are regulated across their entire lifecycle.