As a way to minimize packaging waste under its green initiative, photonics company Thorlabs of Newton, N.J., is experimenting with Geämi packaging to protect some of its mechanical components. Geämi, a combination of Greek (ge) and Latin (ami) roots, literally means “earth friend.” The company said it is the most environmentally friendly protective packaging currently available because it is paper-based, 100% recyclable and compostable, and provides an alternative to oil-based products such as bubble wrap and peanuts. Alex Cable, founder and CEO of Thorlabs, said, “As we work our way through our large inventory of 20,000 products with diverse packaging needs, we ask that our customers share with us their thoughts on what works and what doesn’t.” Products packaged with Geämi paper will be labeled with a green sticker on the box. Thoughts and feedback concerning Thorlabs’ green efforts can be made at www.thorlabs.com/justgreen.