Alpha Charta d.o.o., the manufacturer of 100% biodegradable paper straws, has completed the project "Implementation of Innovative Green Technologies for the Production of Paper Straws at Alpha Charta," which received funding through the third call for project proposals within the program "Innovation, Research, Education, and Competitiveness in Croatia" implemented by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period from 2014 to 2021.
Through this project, the company invested significant funds into the procurement of advanced machinery and equipment, enabling the production of high-quality, flexible paper straws – representing a revolution in the company’s operations and setting new standards in sustainable manufacturing.
Strengthening Croatian-Norwegian Relations
The project, with a total value of EUR 331,281.00 and a support amount of EUR 185,205.00, significantly contributes to achieving the overall objectives of the EEA and Norwegian Financial Mechanism (EEA and Norwegian funds) for the period from 2014 to 2021. These objectives include reducing economic and social disparities within the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as strengthening bilateral relations between the member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and EEA countries, along with beneficiaries of the Norwegian fund programs.
Projects supported through Norway Grants, such as that of Alpha Charta, have a broader social and economic impact. The implementation of the project played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries – Croatia and Norway. This cooperation not only contributed to the exchange of knowledge and technological solutions but also created a solid foundation for future partnership. Through joint efforts in developing innovative green technologies, both countries had the opportunity to learn from each other and implement best practices in their industries.
Revolution in Production – Flexible Paper Straws for a Green Planet
In pursuit of greening the manufacturing industry, the project has enabled Alpha Charta d.o.o. to acquire state-of-the-art technology that not only increases production capacity but also automates the process, reducing waste and optimizing resources. With this equipment, the company is prepared to meet the growing market demand for eco-friendly products by producing flexible paper straws, providing customers with a sustainable alternative to plastic straws.
The results of the project are clearly visible in the following figures:
- Annual revenue growth of 312% by 2028
- Creation of 3 jobs by 2025
- 41% increase in energy efficiency
- Annual reduction in energy consumption in the production of paper straws by 86 MWh
- Annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 25 tons of CO2.
This initiative simultaneously enhances Croatia's competitiveness in the manufacturing sector, encourages innovation, and lays the groundwork for the potential transfer of the model to similar projects in other European Economic Area (EEA) member countries.
A Model for the Future
Alpha Charta d.o.o. demonstrates through its example how innovation and sustainability can be successfully integrated into business processes. The production of flexible paper straws not only contributes to ecological sustainability but also strengthens Croatia's competitiveness in the manufacturing sector. This project can serve as a model for similar initiatives in other EEA member countries, promoting innovation and sustainable practices across Europe.
The completion of this project marks a new beginning for Alpha Charta d.o.o. and the Croatian business sector. With the support of EEA and Norwegian funds, Croatia is becoming a stronger partner within the EEA, reducing economic and social disparities while strengthening its economic opportunities. Alpha Charta d.o.o. proves that sustainability and business success can go hand in hand, setting standards for future generations and contributing to global efforts for environmental preservation.
