Paptic 10 years – From an Idea to Impact: Why I Believe in Paptic?

Paptic turns 10 this year. To celebrate the milestone, we’ll be sharing moments from our journey throughout the year, some of the stories that have shaped us and the brand we’ve built.

Paptic was founded in 2015, and throughout its journey, it has encountered a few bold and forward-looking individuals who have strongly believed in its innovation and future. One such individual is Marko Parkkinen, who’ve know Paptic’s founders already in early 2010-century. Marko collaborated with Esa Torniainen in one of his VTT-time project and actually encouraged Esa to take a leap as an entrepreneur.

Later, when Marko met Tuomas Mustonen and learned more about what Paptic was aiming to achieve, he got convinced. The company’s idea was innovative and aligned with his values. It didn’t take long for him to jump on board as a small investor in the project.

Let’s get to know a bit more of Marko.

Who Are You?

I’m an entrepreneur and, more recently, an investor. Over the past 12 years, I have dedicated my time and focus to businesses that aim to solve sustainability relatad problems. I believe that companies combining innovation and environmental impact are the ones shaping a better future, and that’s where I choose to place my energy.

What Do You See as Paptic’s Strengths?

Two things stand out for me as Paptic’s core strengths:

The entrepreneurial spirit that drives the team forward. The determination, adaptability, and commitment they show to their mission are impressive.

Fibre recycling. Paptic is not just about reducing plastic use; it’s about creating materials that are fully compatible with existing recycling streams. They’re contributing to the circular economy, which is absolutely critical in today’s world.

What’s the Worst Excuse for Not Switching to Sustainable Packaging Materials Yet?

If I held all the power, I’d start by imposing an environmental tax on fossil-based packaging solutions. It’s clear that these materials come with significant hidden costs to the planet, and those costs need to be reflected.

At the same time, I would work to drive recycling rates up, globally and aggressively. Improved recycling systems and higher recycling rates would accelerate the shift to sustainable solutions like Paptic. We have the tools—we just need the collective will to implement them.

Where Do You See Paptic in the Future?

I see Paptic playing a key role in the packaging industry, but I believe their impact will go far beyond that. Paptic materials have the potential to be used in innovative product solutions as well.

A personal example: I’ve been using a Paptic laptop bag for about five years now. It’s been through a lot of wear and tear—constant use, travel, and everything in between—but it’s still going strong. To me, that’s a powerful symbol of what Paptic stands for: sustainable solutions that perform, last, and make a real difference.

Final Thoughts

Paptic’s journey is a story of innovation, vision, and determination to solve a critical global challenge. By creating sustainable alternatives to plastic, they are driving change where it matters most: packaging, a sector that touches every corner of our lives.

I’m proud to have supported Paptic from the beginning, and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow and make a meaningful impact. The future is bright—and it’s fibre-based.