First "carbon-negative" black algae paint launched

ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink, considered the first commercially available UV flexo ink formulated with carbon-negative Algae Black pigment, has been launched by Actega.

Developed in partnership with Living Ink Technologies, an innovator in bio-based pigments, the product was used by NextGen Label Group to print its first commercial application: beverage labels for client Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages, which has been collaborating with Living Ink Technologies on research and development for this application for five years.

"Waiākea has tested and co-developed several sustainable inks and rigid materials over the past decade," said Ryan Emmons, co-founder and CEO of Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages. "None of them had reached the performance standards and carbon reduction potential needed for large-scale adoption. ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink finally meets both requirements.

"There couldn't be a better combination of partners, whose excellence, dedication and commitment to the mission have made it possible to bring this innovation to life."

Actega began working with Living Ink Technologies and, through a joint development agreement in 2024, collaborated with Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages to advance the formulation. The project combines expertise in bio-based pigments with advanced coatings technology, ink formulation capabilities and a beverage brand with national distribution, with the aim of taking the idea to commercial scale.

ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink uses Living Ink's Algae Black pigment, derived from discarded algae biomass. A third-party Life Cycle Assessment showed that the pigment is carbon-negative, with a net footprint of -4.16 kg CO₂ equivalent per kilogram of pigment.

The ink has been commercially validated by NextGen Label Group, following a rigorous process of machine tests and trials. Currently, the ink is only available in a black option, but new color innovations are in development. Living Ink said that initial brand investments, such as the one offered by Waiākea, can help support its ongoing R&D efforts to expand a wider range of bio-based pigments in the future.

ACTExact UV Black Algae Ink is available for testing and large-scale orders through Actega, and is compatible with conventional UV flexo systems. Initial availability is in North America, with expansion to other regions planned.