Algae-Based Label Inks

Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages is pioneering a shift in sustainable packaging by replacing the black ink on its bottle labels with ACTExact® UV Black Algae Ink, a carbon-negative, algae-derived solution. This scalable, open-source innovation eliminates reliance on fossil fuels by using algae, which naturally sequester atmospheric carbon.

A Life Cycle Assessment by Living Ink Technologies estimates that replacing petroleum-based black pigments globally with Algae Black™ could prevent and remove over 100 million metric tons of CO₂e annually. Waiākea’s adoption of this ink positions the company at the forefront of environmentally responsible packaging in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector.

Additionally, through its Kōkua Initiative, Waiākea continues to support Hawai‘i’s local communities and global water access programs. In partnership with Pump Aid, the company has provided clean water to over 1 million people, donating 650 liters for every liter purchased.

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