The potential environmental savings of the new cartridge are significant. A single large-scale project, such as the renovation of a 100,000-seater football stadium, could use upwards of 45,000 cartridges - traditionally the equivalent of 1.4 tonnes of plastic and seven tonnes of CO₂. Switching to UniBond’s Next Generation Cartridge could reduce plastic waste by 51% and cut CO₂ emissions dramatically: equivalent to avoiding 280,000 plastic bags or one person flying 29,000 miles.
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UniBond’s Next Generation Cartridge: A Breakthrough in Sustainable Sealant Packaging
UniBond has unveiled a major innovation in the sealants market: a newly designed cartridge that redefines both sustainability and user convenience. The Next Generation of Cartridges was unveiled at ScrewFix Live UK in September 2025 and will be available at all major DIY and E-commerce retailers nationwide soon. Initially launched within its sanitary and multi-purpose silicone sealant ranges, this new packaging marks a significant step forward for the industry, with a broader rollout planned for 2026.
For over 80 years, cartridge technology has remained largely unchanged. Traditional cartridges, primarily composed of plastic, are difficult to recycle and often end up in non-circular waste streams due to contamination. Recognising the need for meaningful change, Henkel initiated a global effort to reimagine cartridge design, without compromising product performance or user habits.
The new UniBond cartridge solution offers enhanced recyclability and plastic reduction of at least 51% per cartridge. It consists of five different key components: the top cap, nozzle, ring and piston, all made from at least 49 % recycled plastic, and the outer tube constructed with recycled cardboard. The inner foil sausage is designed for efficient dispensing and long shelf life.
This design allows for easy separation of components after use - the cardboard and ring can be recycled through household kerbside recycling, while the remaining parts can be disposed of in general waste. This helps to reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste per cartridge by 73% (compared to conventional plastic cartridge).
At UniBond, we are actively encouraging the industry to adopt environmentally responsible solutions as a crucial first step toward more sustainable renovations. Sealant cartridges are often overlooked as a contributor to construction waste, so it has been our goal with our Next Generation of Cartridges to provide a solution that not only performs exceptionally but significantly reduces environmental impact.
Eve Kolesova, Head of Marketing, UniBond, UK and Ireland
The benefits extend to everyday home improvements as well. With 44% of UK homeowners planning renovation work over the next two years, UniBond estimates that around 13 million cartridges will be required for bathrooms, kitchens, windows, lofts, and more. If replaced with the new design, this shift could save the equivalent of 76 million plastic bags and nearly 2,000 tonnes of CO₂.
However, this innovation isn’t just about sustainability. It’s also about making life easier for users. The development process involved over 3,000 professional and DIY users, ensuring the final product meets real-world needs. The cartridge features a ‘No Cut’ opening system that eliminates the need for knives, allowing users to simply attach the nozzle, insert the cartridge into the gun and then press firmly on it for a faster, safer, and more intuitive start. It’s compatible with existing sealant guns, and the product can be resealed for future use if not fully consumed, making it both practical and efficient.
Our new cardboard-based cartridge technology is the result of years of dedicated engineering, development and testing. This innovation allows us to introduce a next-generation solution that combines substantial sustainability benefits with improved functionality, all while upholding the uncompromising product performance our brands are known for.
Lisa Nassif, Head of Consumers and Craftsmen for UK, Ireland and Nordics
UniBond’s next generation cartridge technology is a clear reflection of the brand’s commitment to responsible innovation and its understanding of what modern users truly need: products that are better for the planet and easier to use.
For more information, please visit: UniBond
